Abu Dhabi’s iconic Baps Hindu Mandir is preparing to host one of the UAE’s largest Diwali celebrations this year, with tens of thousands of visitors expected to participate in prayers and cultural festivities beginning October 18 and culminating in special Diwali puja on Monday, October 20.
In a special announcement, temple organisers confirmed that the mandir — usually closed to the public on Mondays — will remain open from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on October 20 for Diwali prayers. Visitors will be welcomed until 9 p.m. “Celebrate Diwali at the mandir – a time to seek blessings, renew love and faith and begin the new year with grace,” said the Baps Swaminarayan Sanstha, the organisation that built and manages the temple.
The Baps Hindu Mandir, which opened on February 14 last year, has already received more than two million visitors, quickly becoming one of the UAE’s most visited places of worship. Diwali — the Hindu festival of lights — marks the start of the new year and is traditionally celebrated with lamps, lanterns, prayers, and community gatherings.
Mandatory Online Registration for Entry
Due to the expected surge in visitors, organisers have introduced strict guidelines to ensure smooth entry and crowd management. All visitors must register online at mandir.ae/book-visit to receive a QR-coded entry pass, which will be checked against a valid ID. Those without prior registration will not be allowed to enter.
During last year’s Diwali celebrations, hundreds of thousands queued to pray at the intricately carved temple, and daily visitor numbers regularly surpassed 30,000 during public holidays.
A Week of Prayer, Culture, and Tradition
Celebrations will begin on Saturday, October 18, with daily prayers and cultural performances, including music and dance, leading up to Diwali day. Worshippers who cannot visit in person will also be able to register for online prayers through the temple’s website.
On Wednesday, October 22, devotees will take part in the traditional annakut ceremony, offering the first meal of the new year to Bhagwan as an expression of gratitude and devotion. The festivities will continue through October 25 and 26 with the maha-annakut, featuring a grand vegetarian feast presented before the deities. Food offerings will be available at the temple; outside food will not be permitted inside the shrine.
A Global Architectural and Cultural Landmark
Beyond its spiritual role, the Baps Hindu Mandir has gained international recognition for its design and innovation. The temple recently won the Mondo-DR global audiovisual award in Florida in the “House of Worship” category, triumphing over churches, mosques, and synagogues worldwide. Its 12-minute film, The Fairy Tale, which visitors can view before entering, showcases the temple’s history, intricate craftsmanship, and the UAE’s gift of land from President Sheikh Mohamed.
Swami Brahmaviharidas, head of the Baps Hindu Mandir, said the temple’s message of unity is especially poignant in today’s divided world. “Here at the Baps Hindu Mandir, we wish to break borders. The message of unity in this show demonstrates more than ever that this is the need of the hour,” he said.
The temple, located in Abu Mureikha, continues to be celebrated as a symbol of architectural excellence and interfaith harmony in the UAE. Its Diwali celebrations this year are expected to draw devotees and visitors of all faiths, reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity.