Our Correspondent
As Indian Hindus across the world celebrate Diwali on November 14, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, took to Twitter to send his Diwali greetings.
“On behalf of the people of the UAE, I wish everyone celebrating around the world a happy Diwali. May the light of hope always unite us and lead us forward to a better tomorrow.” Sheikh Mohammed tweeted.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, on his official Twitter handle also wished all those celebrating Diwali around the world: “On the occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights, we congratulate all those who celebrate around the world, and wish them continued prosperity and progress.”
Indian Ambassador to the UAE Pavan Kumar tweeted his thanks to the UAE rulers: “Thank the leadership of the UAE for being gracious hosts to a large Indian community, which enjoys celebrating festivals in its second home.”
Expats in celebratory mood
The Indian ‘Festival of Lights’ began with Dhanteras on November 13. It is considered the most auspicious day to buy gold, and hence a flurry of shopping was witnessed in jewellery showrooms in the country. Supermarkets, bazaars and malls also saw last-minute shoppers looking for clothes, diyas, decorations and food items.
Despite COVID-19 playing spoilsport, Indian expatriates are marking Diwali with happiness and excitement. Community gatherings will make way for close family get-togethers and video calls. With Diwali falling on the weekend in the Gulf, expats have more occasions to celebrate. The Pointe in Palm Jumeirah, Festival City boulevard and Al Seef in Karama witnessed fireworks and festivities on the night of November 13.
