Celebrating the ‘Festival of Colours’: Holi in Dubai 2025
Holi, often called the Festival of Colours in Dubai, is one of the most awaited celebrations for the Indian community. In 2025, the city is set to host a remarkable array of Holi events in Dubai that promise to embrace the vibrancy of this festival. With its multicultural population, Dubai serves as a melting pot for diverse traditions, making it an ideal location for grand Holi celebrations in the UAE. Let’s learn more about the upcoming Holi celebrations in Dubai.
HOLI IN DUBAI 2025: The History and Significance of the Holi Festival
The origins of Holi can be traced back to ancient Hindu mythology, symbolising the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. The festival is steeped in stories and legends, one of which involves the demon king Hiranyakashipu and his son Prahlad, who worshipped Lord Vishnu. In an attempt to punish Prahlad, Hiranyakashipu’s sister Holika, who was immune to fire, attempted to burn him. However, Prahlad emerged unscathed while Holika perished, thus marking the triumph of righteousness. This narrative underlines the festival’s core theme: the celebration of virtue and the celebration of life in all its hues.
Holi also signifies the arrival of spring, a season associated with renewal and rejuvenation. Traditionally, Holi is celebrated by throwing coloured powders (gulal) and water at each other, embodying joy, friendship and love.
In Dubai, the significance of Holi is further amplified by its multicultural tapestry. The festival allows people from various cultures to join in the festivities, promoting understanding and acceptance. As expatriates participate in the Holi celebrations in Dubai, they bring their unique perspectives, enriching the overall experience and fostering a sense of belonging within the community.
HOLI EVENTS IN DUBAI 2025
Here are some of the best Holi celebrations in Dubai you can look forward to this year.
Please note that outside colours and water guns are prohibited at these Dubai Holi events.
Holi Hai
This much-anticipated event combines cultural performances, music, dance, and, of course, colour play. Families will enjoy a day filled with fun activities, food stalls, and live entertainment, making it a perfect choice for those looking to celebrate Holi in a vibrant atmosphere.
- Cost: From AED 30
- Date: 1st April 2025
- Timings: 10:30 am onwards
- Location: Zabeel Park Amphitheatre
- Contact: +971-50-654-9100 | +971-56-231-4100
Holi Music Mantra Season 2 at Zabeel Park
Prepare to be captivated by music and colour at the “Holi Music Mantra” event at Zabeel Park Amphitheater in Dubai. This electrifying celebration promises an unforgettable fusion of traditional Holi festivities, featuring live DJ performances. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere filled with colourful powders and joyous celebrations.
Treat your taste buds to a delectable journey through Desi cuisine. A wide selection of culinary delights awaits, perfectly complementing the festive spirit of Holi. The “Holi Music Mantra Season 2” welcomes families with open arms. Children under the age of 5 can join the celebration free of charge, ensuring a fun-filled and inclusive environment for all ages.
For those who enjoy Bollywood music and dance, this event promises an exhilarating experience.
- Cost: Tickets start from AED 80, guests must pay the park fee (AED 5)
- Date: 6th April 2025
- Timings: 08:00 am onwards
- Location: Zabeel Park Amphitheatre
Holi-Inspired Cuisine: Restaurants offering deals for Holi celebrations in Dubai
From classic street eats to gourmet Holi dining experiences, the Festival of Colours in Dubai is a feast for the senses. Get ready to savour the flavours of Holi in Dubai 2025!
No Holi celebration in Dubai is complete without indulging in a spread of vibrant, flavour-packed treats!
Must-Try Holi Delicacies
- Gujiya – These sweet, khoya-filled dumplings are a festival favourite, alongside classics like malpua and jalebi.
- Thandai – A chilled, spiced milk-based drink, perfect for cooling off after a day of colour-filled fun.
Every year, many top Indian restaurants in Dubai curate special menus blending authentic Indian flavours with contemporary flair.
DHABA LANE
Dhaba Lane invites you to celebrate Holi in a vibrant explosion of flavours! Sip on complimentary Thandai shots throughout the day, a refreshing and traditional Holi beverage.
Indulge in sweet Gujiya treats and thandai, made with love, using time-honoured recipes for just AED 20. And, of course, savour Dhaba Lane’s delicious Punjabi cuisine, featuring favourites like Dahi Bhalla Papdi Chaat, Dahi Ke Kebab, Surkh Bihari Boti and fragrant Mutton Biryani.
- Cost: Thandai & 3 Gujiyas for AED 20
- Date: 10th to 16th March 2025
- Timings: Lunch and Dinner
- Location: Al Nahda | Karama | Al Garhoud | JLT
- Contact:
- Al Karama: +971-4-358-3554, +971-56-962-4611
- Al Garhoud: +971-54-999-4252
- JLT: +971-54-999-4251
- Al Nahda: +971-4-526-0039, +971-56-822-8300
Holi Celebration in Dubai: Feast & Fun at Chatori Gali!
This Holi, Chatori Gali, UAE’s beloved homegrown vegetarian gem, is turning up the flavour and fun with an unmissable festive feast!
- Sip & Celebrate – Kick off with complimentary Thandai shots, setting the mood for a vibrant celebration.
- Sweet Nostalgia – Indulge in crispy Jalebi (AED 25), creamy Rabri (AED 25), and classic Gujiya—each bite bursting with tradition.
- Savoury Delights – Relish the homely comfort of Chole Bhature (AED 32) and Bedmi Aloo Puri (AED 22), bringing the essence of North India to your plate.
- Free Kebab Platter! – Yes, you read that right! Every order from the Holi menu comes with a sizzling kebab platter on the house.
Gather your friends, splash on the colours, and celebrate Holi in Dubai with a feast as lively as the festival itself. Don’t miss out on this flavour-packed celebration—bring your appetite and make Holi 2025 one to remember!
- Cost: Starting from AED 25
- Date: 14th March 2025
- Timings: 09:00 am – 12:00 am
- Location: Al Barsha |Dubai Silicon Oasis | Al Karama
Festive Specials You Can’t Miss at The Permit Room
This Holi, take the festivities to the next level at The Permit Room, where rooftop vibes, cosy indoor settings, and quirky Indian flavours come together for an unforgettable experience!
Thandai & Gujiya Combo – AED 20
Indulge in a glass of creamy Thandai and two fresh, melt-in-your-mouth Gujiyas, handmade at the Live Thandai & Gujiya Corner—because Holi isn’t complete without something sweet!
A colourful and flavourful menu sets the festive mood, ensuring a Holi experience that’s as tempting as it is delicious.
- Chef Harangad Singh’s Signature Dishes
- Burrata Chaat – Creamy, tangy, and packed with flavour
- Truffle Amritsari Kulcha & Mushroom Achaar – A fusion masterpiece
- Spicy Mushroom Momos & Pav Bhaji Focaccia – A bold twist on classics
- Paneer Tikka Fatir & Veg Butter Chicken with Garlic Naan – Pure indulgence
- Ferrero Rocher Choco Bar – The ultimate sweet finale
- Cost: Live Thandai & Gujiyas Corner from AED 20
- Date: 14th – 16th March 2025
- Location: Majestic City Retreat Hotel, Al Mankhool
- Contact: +971-54-791-1796
FAQS ABOUT HOLI IN DUBAI
Festival of Colours in Dubai: How to Prepare for an Unforgettable Holi Celebration
Holi in Dubai is a vibrant explosion of colour, music, and joy—but a little preparation goes a long way in making the most of the festivities!
What to Wear & Bring:
- Bright & Old Clothes – Opt for colourful outfits you won’t mind getting drenched in hues. Light fabrics like cotton or linen keep you cool under the Dubai sun.
- Sunscreen & Hydration – The Holi celebration in Dubai happens outdoors, so pack sunscreen and plenty of water to stay refreshed.
- Eco-Friendly Colours – Opt for natural powders to keep your skin safe and the festival sustainable. Most venues now have safe, organic and eco-friendly colours for guests.
- Towel & Change of Clothes – After the festivities, you’ll appreciate having something clean and dry to slip into.
What are some unique twists on Holi in Dubai?
Dubai’s take on Holi blends tradition with modern excitement! Expect:
- DJ-Powered Dance Parties – Electronic beats meet classic Holi vibes.
- Themed Celebrations – Think of Bollywood glamour, retro styles, and celebrity appearances.
- Eco-Conscious Fun – Many events now feature organic colours and sustainable practices.
Go Green: Eco-Friendly Holi Celebration in Dubai
As Holi celebrations in Dubai grow bigger, safety and sustainability take centre stage to ensure a fun and responsible festival.
- Biodegradable Colours – Many events are pushing for safer organic powders for both people and nature.
- Waste Management Systems – Proper disposal points will help keep venues clean.
- Sustainable Materials – From decorations to utensils, eco-conscious choices will be encouraged.
By embracing these safety measures and green initiatives, Holi in Dubai 2025 promises a celebration that’s vibrant, joyful, and kind to both people and the planet.
CAN I VISIT TEMPLES DURING HOLI?
Yes, many people visit temples during Holi each year. You can visit the Hindu Temple in Jebel Ali to observe worship and special programmes during this period.
WHERE TO BUY INDIAN SWEETS?
Celebrate the festival with some gulab jamuns, kaju katli and laddus. There are numerous stores to buy Indian sweets in Dubai, including Kamat Shireen, Bombay Sweet & Bakery and Puranmal.
WHAT ARE THE BEST INDIAN RESTAURANTS IN DUBAI?
From Indego by Vineet to India Palace, there are many Indian restaurants in Dubai for every budget and taste.
That concludes our list of things to do for Holi in Dubai 2025. These festivals give the Indian community in Dubai an excellent chance to rejoice with friends and family. So go out, celebrate and have fun!
Dubai is a vibrant hub of activity, with numerous events throughout the year. Are you looking for things to do? Check out this list of events in Dubai for 2025.
From high-energy music festivals to family-friendly gatherings, the Festival of Colours in Dubai offers something for everyone. Ready to dive into a dazzling Holi celebration in Dubai? Let the colours fly!
