Dubai's Spectacular Diwali Dining Scene: Where to head out with family and friends

Dubai transforms into a dazzling celebration of lights and flavors this Diwali, with the city's finest restaurants offering extraordinary dining experiences that honor the Festival of Lights. From intimate Michelin-starred tasting menus to lavish buffets with panoramic views, Dubai's culinary scene lights up with special menus, traditional decorations, and festive atmospheres that bring the spirit of Diwali to life.

Luxury Fine Dining Experiences

Jamavar takes center stage with its spectacular collaboration with Good Earth India, presenting "A Feast in Chahar Bagh" from October 16-26. This MICHELIN-starred restaurant transforms into an immersive paradise garden, featuring hand-decorated 24-carat accented serveware and a curated four-course tasting menu by Chef Surender Mohan. Signature dishes include delicate Khasta Kachori, Kid Goat Shami Kebab, Murgh Nihari with saffron pulao, and the restaurant's renowned Gajrela dessert made from heritage carrots and cardamom.​

Trèsind Studio, the world's first Indian restaurant to earn Three MICHELIN Stars, offers an intimate 20-seat immersive dining experience that takes guests across India's diverse culinary landscape. The open kitchen creates an elegant atmosphere where chefs craft each course with theatrical precision, making it an ideal destination for celebrating Diwali in unprecedented luxury.​

Rang Mahal presents a sophisticated six-course dining journey on October 20-21, priced at AED 195 per person. This award-winning contemporary Indian restaurant captures the spirit of Diwali through thoughtfully crafted courses that showcase India's rich traditions and bold flavors.​

Mid-Range Festive Celebrations

Punjab Grill at Anantara Downtown offers an innovative Diwali experience from October 18-26, featuring modern interpretations of classic Indian dishes. Highlights include the Deconstructed Pani Puri Sphere, Kasundi-glazed Rosewood-Smoked Prawn, and Nalli Nihari with saffron air. The restaurant adds excitement with the "Roll Baby Roll" dice game for groups of six or more, plus special offers through Zomato, EazyDiner, and Careem Dine Out.​

Mausam at Dubai Mall provides the perfect backdrop for Diwali celebrations with stunning views of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. Their luxury Diwali thali, available on October 20-21 for AED 189 per person, features both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, complete with a mithai platter. The experience runs from 7pm to 12am, offering dinner guests breathtaking views of the fountain show.​

Carnival by Trèsind in DIFC celebrates Diwali on October 19-20 with a specially curated feast menu priced at AED 300 per person. This progressive Indian dining destination offers contemporary twists on festive flavors, with optional beverage packages and family-friendly options including complimentary dining for children under five.​

Atmospheric Dining with Entertainment

CULINARA at One Za'abeel hosts Dubai's most extensive Diwali celebration, running for 10 days from October 17-26. The celebration features a Project Chaiwala pop-up, a special festive menu from Chef Ali El Bourji, and culminates with an electric Diwali Night party featuring DJ Buddha on October 25.​

Viceroy's Table offers a theatrical dining experience with "edible jewels and butter diyas". Their limited-edition menu features vegetarian options for AED 199 and non-vegetarian for AED 249, each paired with two cocktails and presented with royal touches, from saffron soups to glittering desserts.​

Kris With a View at Park Regis Kris Kin provides exceptional value with a rooftop Diwali buffet on October 19 for just AED 99 per person. The one-night special includes live chaat stations, Jodhpuri Pulao, Fish Moilee Curry, Tandoori Chicken Tikka, and desserts like Rasmalai and Boondi Ladoo, accompanied by a live DJ.​

Family-Friendly Options

Dhaba Lane offers the most budget-friendly option with a 5-course sharing Diwali menu for AED 65 per person, available October 15-22 at all locations including Al Karama, Al Garhoud, JLT, and Al Nahda. The hearty thali includes soup, chaat, two starters, two mains, breads, rice, and two desserts, perfect for families seeking authentic flavors without breaking the budget.​

Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights presents a lavish Diwali buffet on October 20 at Day & Night Restaurant for AED 129 per person. The evening features Indian festive favorites with live chaat stations, set against a vibrant Bollywood soundtrack and traditional decor.​

Swissôtel Al Ghurair adds excitement to their Diwali celebration with a classic buffet for AED 129 per adult on October 20, featuring favorites like Butter Chicken, Biryani, and Gulab Jamun, plus a live Momos station and a Rangoli competition with prizes.​

Unique Culinary Experiences

Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia at Jumeirah Al Qasr offers a nostalgic journey through India's culinary heritage with dishes from across the country, including Darjeeling chicken momo and Meghalaya's wagyu beef jadoh. Guests can arrive by abra, adding to the special occasion atmosphere while overlooking the picturesque canal.​

Indya by Vineet combines street food with sharing plates in a poolside setting. Chef Vineet Bhatia's modern Indian menu features dishes 'from the earth', 'from the land', and 'from the sea', with generous portions of signature items like 'KFC' (Kerala fried chicken) and tandoori cauliflower roast.​

Making Your Reservation

With Dubai's Diwali dining scene more vibrant than ever, advance reservations are essential for these sought-after experiences. Many restaurants offer special packages and group discounts, making them perfect for celebrating with family and friends. Whether you're seeking an intimate fine dining experience or a lively family celebration, Dubai's restaurants ensure this Festival of Lights becomes an unforgettable culinary journey that honors tradition while embracing the city's cosmopolitan spirit.

The diversity of options, from AED 65 family thalis to luxury MICHELIN-starred experiences, ensures every celebration can find its perfect match in Dubai's spectacular Diwali dining landscape.