Families at Indian-curriculum schools in the UAE have a festive long break to plan around. Schools have announced a four-day Diwali holiday from October 17 to 20, with classes resuming on October 21, according to circulars reported by DXB News Network.

The break applies to several major Indian-curriculum schools across Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, including CBSE and ICSE schools named in the reporting. Parents should still confirm dates on their own school’s portal, because individual school circulars are the deciding document for each family.

How schools are marking the festival

Ahead of the holiday, schools are running Diwali activities including art competitions, diya decoration, cultural performances and charity drives, with assemblies explaining the festival’s themes. Teachers are also encouraging responsible celebrations, including eco-friendly diyas and decorations and care around fireworks, per the same report.

Diwali lights and decorations at Al Seef waterfront Dubai Creek
Al Seef and Global Village are among the Dubai venues known for Diwali fireworks and festivities.

Diwali across the city during the break

The break lands just after Global Village opens its new season on October 14, and Dubai’s Diwali calendar traditionally centres on Al Seef on Dubai Creek and Global Village for fireworks, markets and performances. Exact 2026 display timings for this year’s festival nights had not been confirmed in the reporting cited here, so check venue channels before travelling across town for a specific show. Our Global Village guide, places to visit in Dubai and free things to do in Dubai pages help build a family plan for the four days.

Family lighting diyas at home during Diwali celebrations
Families use the break for prayers, gatherings and cultural events across the emirates.

Planning travel during the break

A four-day break is long enough for a short trip home or a staycation, and both fill up quickly once circulars go out. Flights to Indian cities in mid-October are in demand across the UAE’s large Indian community, so families who intend to travel should compare fares early and keep school return dates in mind: classes resume the morning after the break, so a late arrival home on the final night leaves little margin. Those staying in the UAE will find the break also overlaps the first days of Global Village’s new season, which makes evening visits easier without a school start the next day.

FAQs

When is the Diwali break for UAE Indian schools?

October 17 to 20, with classes resuming October 21, according to school circulars reported this week.

Which schools does it cover?

Several major Indian-curriculum schools in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, including CBSE and ICSE schools. Confirm on your school’s portal.

What activities are schools holding?

Diya decoration, art competitions, cultural performances, assemblies and charity drives ahead of the break.

Where can families celebrate Diwali in Dubai?

Al Seef and Global Village are the best-known public celebration spots; confirm this year’s timings on venue channels first.