Diwali is just around the corner, and this year, the celebrations at BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi are going to be something truly special. The temple, which has already become one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in the UAE, has officially announced its Diwali schedule. And when I tell you it’s packed with festivities, devotion, and plenty of heart, I mean it. so, if you’re planning to visit in person or take part from home, here’s everything you need to know about this beautiful celebration of light and love!
Also read: Delicious Dining Deals To Celebrate Diwali In Dubai
Lighting Up Abu Dhabi With Diwali Magic
The festival of lights will officially take place on Monday, October 20, and to make it extra special, the Mandir will be open to the public all day long — from 9am to 9pm. Normally closed on Mondays, the temple will open its doors exclusively for Diwali, welcoming people from all walks of life to join in the joy, prayer, and unity that the festival represents.
The celebrations will run from October 18 to 26, with each day featuring different devotional and cultural events. So, if the lights, the prayers, and the feeling of new beginnings is what you’re searching for, this is the perfect time to soak it all in.
Dhanteras: The Perfect Start To The Festival
The celebrations will begin on Saturday, October 18, with Dhanteras, a day dedicated to prosperity and good fortune. For those who prefer celebrating from home, the Mandir will be hosting a live online Dhan Puja from 7:20pm to 8:20pm. This gives everyone the chance to take part no matter where they are. The temple has made it easy for families to join in by sharing preparation guidelines and a live webcast link on their official website.
The Big Day: Diwali At The Mandir
Come Monday, October 20, the BAPS Hindu Mandir will turn into a glowing symbol of love and spirituality. This year’s theme, “Lighting the Path with Love and Spirituality,” perfectly captures the essence of Diwali. Celebrating light that comes not just from diyas, but from within us.
Visitors can come for Mandir Darshan throughout the day. Evening Diwali Pooja, held between 7:30pm and 8:30pm, will be the highlight of the celebration. Families are encouraged to attend together and start their new year with divine blessings.
Since the Diwali Puja requires registration, it’s best to sign up early to ensure your spot in this once-a-year celebration.
Annakut & Maha Annakut: The Celebration Continues
Just when you think Diwali is over, the celebrations at the Mandir keep going strong! On Wednesday, October 22, the temple will host Annakut, followed by the grand Maha Annakut on Saturday and Sunday, October 25 and 26.
If you’ve never experienced it before, Annakut is a traditional offering where devotees present the first meal of the New Year to the deity as a gesture of gratitude and devotion. The Maha Annakut takes this to another level. Hundreds of delicious, freshly made vegetarian dishes are lovingly prepared, beautifully displayed, and offered to the deity in a spectacular feast for both the eyes and the soul.
This year’s Maha Annakut will also include special decorations inspired by sacred trees and fruits. Creating a beautiful atmosphere filled with colour, beauty, and devotion. Families can even take part by donating towards the Annakut Thali Seva. You can even choose how many thalis to offer and which deity to dedicate them to. It’s a heartfelt way to express love, gratitude, and faith together as a family.
What You Need To Know About Planning Your Visit
If you’re heading to the temple for the celebrations, a few important things are worth keeping in mind. First, separate registrations are required for your Mandir visit and for the Puja or Annakut Thali Seva. You’ll need to register online through the temple’s official website before your visit.
Also, note that carrying food, prasad, bags, or personal belongings into the Mandir premises isn’t allowed. So it’s best to travel light. To make your visit smoother and avoid any delays at security, it’s highly recommended to go through the visitor guidelines available online before you go.
Make This Years Diwali A Festival To Remember
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about celebrating Diwali at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Beyond the lights and sweets, it’s about community, togetherness, and the joy of reconnecting with your roots while creating new memories. Every part of this celebration is designed to bring people closer to the spirit of Diwali and each other.
So, get your festive outfits ready, bring your brightest smiles, and step into the light. Diwali 2025 at the BAPS Hindu Mandir is shaping up to be an unforgettable celebration of faith, and devotion.
