Diwali 2026 in Sharjah, UAE: Date, Lakshmi Puja Timings, Events, Indian Shopping, Restaurants and Celebrations

Introduction: Diwali Celebrations in Sharjah

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated by Indian communities across the world. In Sharjah, the Festival of Lights brings Indian families together through traditional Lakshmi Puja, home decorations, sweets, shopping, cultural activities and community gatherings.

Sharjah has a large and diverse Indian expatriate population, including families from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Punjab and North India. The festival is celebrated in homes, schools, workplaces, restaurants and shopping centres.

Unlike Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Sharjah does not have a confirmed public Hindu temple within the emirate that visitors can rely on for a regular Diwali darshan programme. Hindu families commonly travel to Dubai or Abu Dhabi for temple worship. However, Sharjah itself offers Indian grocery shops, sweet shops, restaurants and shopping-centre activities that make it possible to enjoy the festive season locally.

For 2026, Diwali falls on Sunday, November 8. A notable local event is the NESTO Diwali Kids Fashion Show at MIA Mall on November 7. Unique World Mall has also advertised a Grand Diwali Night on November 7 as part of its Diwali shopping campaign.

This guide covers the date, puja timings, confirmed event listings, shopping, food, nearby temples and travel tips for celebrating Diwali 2026 in Sharjah.

Diwali 2026 Date in Sharjah

Diwali 2026 will be celebrated on:

• Festival: Diwali / Deepavali
• Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
• Location: Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
• Time zone: Gulf Standard Time (GST), UTC+4
• Main ritual: Lakshmi Puja
• Important festival days: Dhanteras, Naraka Chaturdashi, Diwali, Govardhan Puja and Bhai Dooj

Diwali is observed on the Amavasya day of the Hindu lunar calendar, with Lakshmi Puja traditionally performed during the evening Pradosh period.

Lakshmi Puja Muhurat in Sharjah – November 8, 2026

Lakshmi Puja is the central religious ritual of Diwali for many Hindu households. Families worship Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, along with Lord Ganesha and other family deities.

The published Drik Panchang timings for Sharjah are:

All timings are in Sharjah local time, GST (UTC+4). https://www.drikpanchang.com/festivals/lakshmipuja/festivals-lakshmipuja-timings.html?geoname-id=292672

Families following regional traditions or a specific family panchang should confirm the final ritual time with their priest.

How to Perform Lakshmi Puja at Home

Many Indian families in Sharjah celebrate Diwali in their apartments and villas. A traditional home puja can be organised with simple preparations.

1. Clean and decorate the house before Diwali.
2. Prepare a clean puja area with images or idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha.
3. Arrange flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, rice, turmeric and kumkum.
4. Place a puja thali and prepare the offerings.
5. Light diyas safely, following building rules.
6. Perform Lakshmi and Ganesha prayers during the auspicious period.
7. Offer sweets and fruits as naivedyam.
8. Distribute prasad among family members.
9. Exchange gifts and Diwali greetings.

Apartment residents should check building rules regarding open flames, candles and decorative lights. Do not use fireworks or firecrackers in unauthorised areas.

Diwali 2026 Events in Sharjah

Sharjah's Diwali celebrations are spread across shopping centres, community activities, schools and private family gatherings. The following are event listings identified for the 2026 festival period.

1. NESTO Diwali Kids Fashion Show – MIA Mall

The NESTO Diwali Kids Fashion Show is listed as part of the mall's Diwali entertainment programme.

Event details:

• Event: NESTO Diwali Kids Fashion Show 2026
• Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
• Time: 6:00 PM
• Venue: Nesto MIA Mall, Al Nahda, Sharjah
• Location: Third floor
• Contact listed for participation enquiries: +971 50 347 3640

The programme is designed around a children's festive fashion showcase. It gives young participants an opportunity to dress up for Diwali and take part in a family-oriented celebration.

Parents interested in registering children should contact the organiser to confirm participation requirements, availability and any applicable conditions.

2. Unique World Mall – Diwali Khushiyon Wali

Unique World Mall has advertised a Diwali shopping and entertainment campaign titled Diwali Khushiyon Wali.

The campaign includes shopping rewards, family activities and a Grand Diwali Night.

Shopping campaign highlights:

• Diwali shopping promotion running through November 6, 2026.
• Opportunity to win gold and other gifts through the advertised shopping awards.
• A grand celebration and prize announcements on November 7.
• Bollywood music, games and family entertainment.

Grand Diwali Night:

• Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
• Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Venue: Unique World Mall
• Activities: Shopping awards ceremony, games, entertainment and festive giveaways.

The mall's published campaign details include a prize draw involving 20 grams of gold and other shopping rewards. Participation is subject to the organiser's terms and conditions.

Official event information: https://theuwmall.com/events/diwali-khushiyon-wali

3. Sharjah International Book Fair – November 4 to 15

The Sharjah International Book Fair is taking place from November 4 to 15, 2026, at Expo Centre Sharjah.

Although it is not a Diwali-specific event, visitors coming to Sharjah during the festival period can combine a book fair visit with their Diwali weekend plans.

The fair is a major annual cultural event, featuring publishers, books, author sessions, children's activities and literary programmes.

Visitors should check the official event programme for session schedules and any registration requirements.

Are There Public Diwali Fireworks in Sharjah?

As of November 6, 2026, the event listings reviewed do not establish a confirmed Sharjah Municipality citywide Diwali fireworks programme.

Do not assume that Dubai's Festival of Lights or its fireworks schedule applies to Sharjah. Residents should check the relevant organiser or government announcement before travelling for a fireworks display.

Hindu Temples Near Sharjah for Diwali Darshan

A common question among Hindu residents and visitors is whether Sharjah has a Hindu temple.

No public Hindu temple in Sharjah with a verifiable visitor address and published regular darshan schedule was confirmed in the sources reviewed for this article. Hindu families in Sharjah commonly travel to Dubai or Abu Dhabi for temple worship.

The following are options in neighbouring emirates.

1. Hindu Temple Dubai – Jebel Ali

The Hindu Temple Dubai in Jebel Ali is a major Hindu worship destination serving devotees from Dubai, Sharjah and other emirates.

The temple is located in the Jebel Ali Worship Village area.

Visitors should check the temple's official channels for current darshan hours, puja bookings, festival schedules and entry rules before travelling.

2. Shri Krishna Temple – Bur Dubai

Shri Krishna Temple, also known as Shreenathji Haveli, is located in the historic Bur Dubai area.

It is an option for devotees looking for Krishna worship and traditional Hindu temple surroundings.

Visitors should verify darshan timings before setting out, especially during the Diwali period.

3. BAPS Hindu Mandir – Abu Dhabi

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is a major Hindu spiritual and cultural landmark in the UAE.

Its 2026 Diwali programme includes temple celebrations and Maha Annakut activities from November 8 to 10.

It is farther from Sharjah than the Dubai temples, so visitors should plan their journey and secure a booking before travelling.

Official visitor information: https://www.mandir.ae/

Temple Visit Tips for Sharjah Residents

• Check the temple's current opening hours.
• Confirm whether a festival booking is required.
• Carry valid identification.
• Follow the dress code and visitor instructions.
• Allow extra travel time during the Diwali weekend.
• Confirm whether special puja or darshan sessions need separate reservations.

Best Indian Restaurants in Sharjah for Diwali

Food is an important part of Diwali celebrations. Families often enjoy a festive lunch or dinner after Lakshmi Puja, while friends and colleagues meet at Indian restaurants during the festival week.

Sharjah has a wide range of Indian restaurants, including Kerala restaurants, North Indian dining rooms, South Indian food outlets and premium Indian restaurants.

Rang – Aljada

Rang is a modern Indian restaurant in the Aljada area. It is an option for families and groups looking for a contemporary Indian dining experience.

India Palace – Al Heera Beach

India Palace at Al Heera Beach offers North Indian and Mughlai-inspired food in a dining setting near the waterfront.

It can be considered for a family dinner or a special occasion during the Diwali weekend.

India Palace – Zero 6 Mall

The Zero 6 Mall branch is another option for Indian dining in Sharjah. Its menu focuses on Indian dishes, including curries, biryanis and kebabs.

Curry Chatti – Muwaileh Commercial

Curry Chatti is a popular Kerala and South Indian-style restaurant in Muwaileh Commercial.

It is worth considering for families who enjoy Kerala meals, biryani, seafood and traditional South Indian dishes.

Bombay House – Al Zahia

Bombay House in the DISTRIKT area of Al Zahia is an Indian dining option for visitors looking for a more contemporary restaurant atmosphere.

Masala Magic – Abu Shagara

Masala Magic offers Kerala, North Indian and South Indian dishes in the Abu Shagara area.

Calicut Stories – Muwaileh Commercial

Calicut Stories is a South Indian restaurant with a Kerala food focus. It is an option for residents looking for regional dishes and family meals.

Gazebo – King Faisal Street

Gazebo is known for Indian dum-style biryani, curries and kebabs. Its King Faisal Street branch is an option for a sit-down family meal.

Restaurant availability, festive menus and prices should be confirmed directly with each outlet.

Where to Buy Indian Sweets in Sharjah for Diwali

Indian sweets are an essential part of Diwali. Families exchange mithai boxes with friends, neighbours, colleagues and relatives.

Sharjah has several shops where residents can explore traditional Indian sweets and savouries.

Sri Krishna Sweets – Al Yarmook

Sri Krishna Sweets is an option for South Indian sweets, ghee-based preparations and savouries. Mysore pak and traditional gift-style sweet boxes are popular choices for festive gifting.

Bombay Sweets – Umm Al Tarafa

Bombay Sweets offers Indian sweets, chaat, farsan and savoury snacks. It is a useful option for residents looking for a combination of sweets and Indian street-food-style snacks.

Indian Mithai and Snacks to Buy

Popular Diwali choices include:

• Kaju katli
• Motichoor laddu
• Besan laddu
• Mysore pak
• Gulab jamun
• Rasmalai
• Soan papdi
• Peda
• Badam halwa
• Kaju roll
• Chakli
• Murukku
• Mixture
• Ribbon pakoda

Order gift boxes early, particularly if you need large quantities for offices or family gatherings.

Indian Grocery Stores in Sharjah for Diwali Preparations

Families preparing for Lakshmi Puja may need Indian ingredients, spices, rice, pulses, flowers, incense, oil, sweets and decorative items.

Some Indian grocery options in Sharjah include:

Adil Supermarket – Rolla

The Rolla branch is an Indian-focused grocery option for spices, pantry staples, flour, rice, pulses and other Indian food products.

Madhoor Supermarket – Abu Shagara

Madhoor Supermarket in the Abu Shagara area is an option for Indian grocery shopping and festival essentials.

Al Adil Supermarket – Al Nahda

This branch serves residents in the Al Nahda area looking for Indian grocery products and household cooking essentials.

Adil Supermarket – Muwaileh Commercial

Residents around Muwaileh can explore the branch on Maleha Street for Indian grocery staples and spices.

Bahart Food House – Al Qasimia

Bahart Food House is a specialist grocery option for grains, spices, nuts, pulses and Indian cooking ingredients.

Rockfort Grocery – Muwaileh

Rockfort Grocery focuses on Indian groceries and South Indian products, making it useful for families preparing regional festival dishes.

Diwali Shopping in Sharjah

Diwali shopping is an important part of the festive season. Families purchase new clothes, jewellery, sweets, home decorations, gifts and puja items.

Gold Shopping Around Dhanteras

Dhanteras falls on Friday, November 6, 2026. Many Indian families traditionally buy gold, silver, jewellery or household items on this day.

Sharjah residents can explore jewellery shops and gold retailers in central shopping areas, including Rolla and other established commercial districts.

Before buying jewellery, compare making charges, purity certification, product weight and return policies.

Abu Shagara and Rolla Shopping Areas

Abu Shagara and Rolla are useful shopping areas for Indian residents. Visitors can explore Indian grocery shops, restaurants, jewellery outlets and other businesses.

Shopping Malls

Families can also explore shopping destinations such as:

• Sahara Centre
• City Centre Sharjah
• Mega Mall
• Zero 6 Mall
• Safari Mall
• MIA Mall
• Unique World Mall

Check individual mall announcements for Diwali decorations, promotions, entertainment and family activities.

How Indian Families Celebrate Diwali in Sharjah

Diwali traditions in Sharjah are similar to those observed by Indian families in India, although apartment living and local regulations influence how residents organise celebrations.

1. Home Cleaning and Decorations

Families clean and decorate their homes before Diwali.

Common decorations include:

• Rangoli at the entrance
• Flower garlands
• LED string lights
• Decorative diyas
• Torans and traditional door hangings
• Colourful lanterns

2. Lakshmi Puja

Families perform Lakshmi Puja during the evening muhurat. The prayers are intended to welcome prosperity, happiness and positive beginnings.

Some business owners also perform Chopda Puja according to Gujarati traditions.

3. Traditional Clothing

Many residents wear traditional Indian clothing during Diwali. Women may choose sarees, lehengas or salwar suits, while men may wear kurtas or other traditional outfits.

Children often enjoy dressing up for school activities, family photographs and community celebrations.

4. Sweets and Gifts

Sharing sweets is one of the most familiar Diwali traditions.

Families exchange mithai, dry fruits, chocolates and festive hampers with friends, colleagues and neighbours.

5. Cultural and School Activities

Indian-curriculum schools and community groups may organise:

• Diya decoration
• Rangoli competitions
• Traditional dress days
• Dance performances
• Music programmes
• Art and craft activities
• Festive food events

Individual school schedules and event arrangements should be checked directly with the school.

6. Family Gatherings

Many families celebrate with a special dinner, prayers and visits to friends and relatives. Some residents travel to Dubai or Abu Dhabi for temple visits and larger public celebrations.

Diwali 2026 Weekend Itinerary for Sharjah

Saturday, November 7 – Shopping and Family Events

Morning

• Visit Indian grocery stores in Rolla or Abu Shagara.
• Buy sweets, puja ingredients and festive decorations.

Afternoon

• Explore the local shopping centres.
• Visit MIA Mall or Unique World Mall for the advertised Diwali activities.

Evening

• Attend the NESTO Diwali Kids Fashion Show if registered.
• Consider the Unique World Mall Grand Diwali Night, subject to the organiser's current arrangements.
• Enjoy a family dinner at an Indian restaurant.

Sunday, November 8 – Main Diwali Day

Morning

• Prepare the home and puja arrangements.
• Visit relatives and exchange festive greetings.

Afternoon

• Enjoy a traditional Indian lunch.
• Complete the final preparations for Lakshmi Puja.

Evening

• Perform Lakshmi Puja during the 5:57 PM–7:54 PM muhurat.
• Light permitted diyas and decorative lights.
• Share sweets and gifts.
• Enjoy a festive dinner with family.

Monday, November 9 – Govardhan Puja and Family Time

Depending on regional tradition, families may observe Govardhan Puja and Annakut on the day after Diwali.

Some households prepare vegetarian food offerings and share meals with relatives.

Residents planning a temple visit can consider travelling to Dubai or Abu Dhabi after checking temple opening and booking arrangements.

Travel Guide: Visiting Sharjah During Diwali 2026

Sharjah is connected to Dubai and the other UAE emirates through road networks and public transport.

Reaching Sharjah

By air: Sharjah International Airport serves regional and international flights.

From Dubai: Visitors can travel by taxi, bus or private vehicle. Journey times depend on traffic and the starting location.

From Abu Dhabi: Road travel is possible, but visitors should allow additional time, especially during busy periods.

Local Transport

Visitors can use taxis, buses and ride-hailing services to reach shopping centres, restaurants and attractions.

For a temple visit in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, plan the return journey before travelling.

Accommodation

Visitors can explore accommodation options around Al Majaz, Al Khan, Al Nahda, Al Taawun, Muwaileh and central Sharjah.

Book early if you are travelling during the Diwali weekend.

Travel Tips

• Check event dates and timings before leaving.
• Confirm restaurant reservations.
• Order sweets and gift boxes early.
• Check temple booking rules before travelling.
• Carry identification for temple entry.
• Follow local regulations concerning fireworks.
• Allow extra time for traffic around malls and popular restaurants.

Eco-Friendly Diwali Celebrations in Sharjah

Families can enjoy a beautiful Diwali while reducing waste and respecting their neighbours.

Some simple ideas include:

• Use LED decorative lights.
• Choose reusable rangoli stencils and decorations.
• Use natural flowers and reusable torans.
• Avoid excessive plastic packaging.
• Use battery-operated diyas where open flames are restricted.
• Share homemade sweets in reusable containers.
• Avoid unauthorised firecrackers.
• Dispose of decorations and packaging responsibly.

An eco-friendly celebration helps keep homes, apartment communities and public spaces clean.

Frequently Asked Questions: Diwali 2026 in Sharjah

1. When is Diwali 2026 in Sharjah?

Diwali will be celebrated on Sunday, November 8, 2026.

2. What is the Lakshmi Puja time in Sharjah?

The published Lakshmi Puja muhurat is 5:57 PM to 7:54 PM GST on November 8, 2026.

3. Is there a Hindu temple in Sharjah?

No public Hindu temple in Sharjah with a verifiable address and published regular darshan schedule was confirmed in the sources reviewed. Residents commonly travel to Hindu temples in Dubai or the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

4. Where can Sharjah residents go for Diwali temple worship?

Options include Hindu Temple Dubai in Jebel Ali, Shri Krishna Temple in Bur Dubai and BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Check each temple's visitor rules before travelling.

5. Are there Diwali events in Sharjah in 2026?

Yes. Listings include the NESTO Diwali Kids Fashion Show at MIA Mall on November 7 and Unique World Mall's Grand Diwali Night on November 7.

6. Where is the NESTO Diwali Kids Fashion Show?

It is listed at Nesto MIA Mall, Al Nahda, Sharjah, on the third floor, on November 7 at 6:00 PM.

7. What is the Unique World Mall Diwali event?

Unique World Mall has advertised Diwali Khushiyon Wali, including shopping rewards and a Grand Diwali Night on November 7, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

8. Where can I buy Indian sweets in Sharjah?

Sri Krishna Sweets and Bombay Sweets are options for traditional Indian sweets and savouries.

9. Which Indian restaurants are popular options in Sharjah?

Options include Rang, India Palace, Curry Chatti, Bombay House, Masala Magic, Calicut Stories and Gazebo.

10. Where can I buy Indian groceries in Sharjah?

Residents can explore Adil Supermarket, Madhoor Supermarket, Bahart Food House and Rockfort Grocery.

11. Is Diwali a public holiday in Sharjah?

Diwali is not a UAE-wide official public holiday. School closures, employer leave and individual business schedules depend on the relevant organisation.

12. What time zone is used for Diwali puja timings in Sharjah?

Sharjah follows Gulf Standard Time (GST), UTC+4.

13. Can tourists visit Sharjah during Diwali?

Yes. Visitors can explore shopping centres, restaurants, cultural attractions and advertised festival activities. Those planning Hindu temple worship should travel to a temple in Dubai or Abu Dhabi and check its visitor arrangements.

14. Are fireworks allowed in Sharjah during Diwali?

Residents should follow UAE laws and local authority instructions. Do not set off fireworks in unauthorised places or assume that a public display is scheduled.

15. How can families celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali?

Use LED lights, reusable decorations, natural rangoli materials and safe permitted lamps. Avoid unauthorised fireworks and reduce disposable packaging.

Conclusion: Celebrate Diwali 2026 in Sharjah

Diwali 2026 in Sharjah will bring Indian families together for prayers, sweets, shopping, cultural activities and festive gatherings. The NESTO Diwali Kids Fashion Show and Unique World Mall's advertised Grand Diwali Night provide local entertainment options ahead of the main festival.

Families can prepare traditional Lakshmi Puja at home, shop for Indian sweets and groceries, enjoy regional Indian cuisine and travel to nearby Dubai or Abu Dhabi for temple worship.

For residents and visitors, the most important part of Diwali remains the same: celebrating the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair.

May Diwali 2026 bring happiness, peace, prosperity and new beginnings to every family in Sharjah.

Happy Diwali 2026! Shubh Deepavali!

More Diwali 2026 city guides

Celebrating somewhere else, or have family in another city? These HinduTone guides give each city its own local Lakshmi Puja time, temples and events:

• Diwali 2026 in Dubai
• Diwali 2026 in Abu Dhabi
• Diwali 2026 in Ajman
• Diwali 2026 in Ras Al Khaimah
• Diwali 2026 in Umm Al Quwain
• Diwali 2026 in Fujairah

See also Diwali 2026 dates in every country, or browse every guide on our Diwali 2026 hub.