Festival of Lights: Burj Khalifa glows with Diwali greetings in Dubai
Bilingual skyscraper messages delight spectators
DUBAI – Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower in Dubai, was lit up on Monday night to mark Diwali – the Indian festival of lights.
The 828-metre façade flashed festive greetings in English and Hindi to UAE residents and visitors. One English message read, “The Festival of Lights brings happiness, harmony and prosperity. Happy Diwali to you and yours”.
The lightshow then repeated the sentiment in Hindi, greeting everyone on “Roshni ka Tyohaar” (Festival of Lights). Developer Emaar shared a video of the illumination on social media with the caption: “Burj Khalifa shines in celebration of the Festival of Lights. Sending heartfelt wishes on this occasion.”
Celebrations in Dubai
Many spectators filmed and posted clips of the dazzling display online.
Diwali at Burj Khali.
— Dr Poornima ???????? (@PoornimaNimo) October 20, 2025
Happy Diwali, CM of TN and KA.
Greetings are written for you at the end of the clip.???????????? pic.twitter.com/tHRpn0Sl7q
Viewers praised Dubai’s cultural inclusivity. One Instagram commenter said seeing the Burj light up for Diwali “fills me with pride”, noting the UAE is a place “where every culture is respected and celebrated”.
Diwali: Festival of Lights
Diwali is a major Hindu festival symbolising the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. It is widely celebrated by Dubai’s large Indian community with lamps (diyas), fireworks and family gatherings.
Hundreds of Indian expats and other UAE residents attend public events – for example, crowds gather at Souk Al Seef to launch the city’s Diwali festivities.