The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, the Middle East’s first traditional Hindu stone temple, will host elaborate Diwali celebrations beginning October 18, culminating in main festivities on Monday, October 20, 2025. The temple will welcome visitors throughout the festival period with cultural programs, devotional events, and sacred rituals marking the festival of lights. Celebrations commence on Saturday, October 18 with Dhanteras, featuring an online Dhan Puja from where families can participate from home seeking blessings for wealth and well-being.
On Diwali Day, October 20, the Mandir will remain open exclusively for celebrations, allowing visitors to seek divine blessings with their loved ones. A special Diwali Puja will be held at the temple, with registration required for attendees. Following Diwali, the temple will observe Annakut on Wednesday, October 22, an ancient Vedic ceremony offering the first meal of the New Year to deities in thanksgiving.
The celebrations culminate with Maha Annakut on October 25-26, featuring a grand offering of hundreds of vegetarian dishes lovingly prepared and artistically arranged. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, operates the temple as part of its international Hindu fellowship affiliated with the United Nations. The organization serves communities worldwide through over one million members, 80,000 volunteers, and 5,025 centers focused on building peaceful and harmonious societies.
