Mothers fast from sunrise for the long life and wellbeing of their children, worshipping Ahoi Mata drawn with eight corners. In Dubai the moon does not rise until 11:49 PM, so most families offer arghya to the stars from 06:02 PM and break the fast then. Radha Kunda Snan falls the same night.

Mothers fast from sunrise for the long life and wellbeing of their children. Four days after Karwa Chauth and eight days before Diwali. The moon rises at 11:51 PM in Dubai, so arghya is usually offered to the stars instead.

Ekadashi fast that absolves sins and grants Vishnu's grace.

Aja Ekadashi is a Vishnu vrat whose sincere observance is said to lift burdens and restore fortune through devotion. Devotees fast, offer tulsi and gangajal, and spend the day in the names of Hari before parana the next morning. Indian families in the UAE keep this quiet fast as a pause for reflection and gratitude. It is a serene day to purify intention and rest in the grace of Lord Vishnu.

The final Sankashti of 2026, Ganesha fast until moonrise.

Akshaya Tritiya is one of the most auspicious days of the year, when every good deed, prayer and new beginning is believed to grow and never diminish. It is the classic day to welcome Maa Lakshmi and Kubera, buy gold or silver, and begin ventures with a hopeful heart. Across the UAE many families choose this day to bring home a new pyrite piece or a wealth yantra, inviting abundance through intention and energy alignment rather than luck alone.

Amalaki Ekadashi, also called Rangbhari Ekadashi, honours Lord Vishnu through the sacred amla tree, believed to hold his blessing and Maa Lakshmi's grace. Devotees fast, worship the amla tree and welcome the joy of the coming Holi season. Falling just before the festival of colours, it carries a bright, celebratory feeling. Families in the UAE keep the vrat with fruit and chanting and break it at parana the next morning. A tulsi mala held during japa keeps the heart soft and devotional.

Ganpati Visarjan and worship of Anant (Vishnu). A gentle home visarjan in UAE.

Anant Chaturdashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his infinite Ananta form, worshipped with a sacred fourteen knotted thread tied for protection and prosperity. It is also the grand finale of Ganeshotsav, when the beloved Ganesha idols are carried for visarjan with heartfelt farewells of Ganpati Bappa Morya. The day blends devotion, gratitude and the promise of a swift return next year. Across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, community groups gather for eco friendly visarjan and shared prasad.

When Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday it becomes Angaraki, the most powerful Ganesha vrat of the year. Devotees across the UAE fast until moonrise, offer an arghya and til-gud, and trust Lord Ganesha to clear every obstacle.

Apara Ekadashi falls on the Krishna Ekadashi of Jyeshtha and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is believed to wash away deep-rooted faults and grant lasting punya, so devotees keep a day-long fast, chant the Vishnu Sahasranama, and light a pure ghee diya. In the UAE, many families begin the vrat after the pre-dawn sankalp and break it the next morning after 5:29 AM Dubai time. A calm, sattvic day of prayer sets a gentle tone for the weeks ahead.

Ashadha Amavasya is a still, no-moon day set aside to remember and honour our ancestors. Families offer tarpan with gangajal in the morning and light a diya in gratitude for the blessings passed down to them. It is a meaningful pause for Indian families in the UAE to feel connected to their roots even far from home. The day is also good for quiet charity and simple prayer, carrying the heart into the holy month of Ashadha.

New-moon of Bhadrapada; shraddha and tarpan for ancestors.

Bhadrapada Amavasya, also known as Pithori Amavasya, is a new-moon day for honouring ancestors and seeking the wellbeing of family. Mothers observe the Pithori vrat for the long life of their children, while devotees offer tarpan, gangajal and quiet prayer. Families across the UAE remember their forebears with gratitude and a lit diya. It is a gentle day for cleansing intention and drawing the blessings of the ancestors.

Pitru Paksha, the fortnight of shraddha for ancestors, begins.

Bhadrapada Purnima marks the full moon that opens Pitru Paksha, the fortnight devoted to honouring our ancestors. Families offer Purnima Shraddha and prepare for the days of tarpan that follow, remembering their forebears with gratitude and love. It is a time of humility, simple food and heartfelt prayer for the peace of departed souls. UAE families keep the tradition alive with quiet home rituals and offerings to the needy.

Sisters apply tilak and pray for their brothers; the bond of siblings.

Bhai Dooj closes the Diwali festivities with the loving bond between brothers and sisters, echoing the tale of Yamuna welcoming her brother Yama. Sisters apply a tilak of blessing on their brothers' foreheads, pray for their long life, and exchange sweets and gifts. It is a warm, family-centred day of protection and affection. In the UAE, siblings separated by busy lives reunite over video calls and festive meals, keeping the tradition alive across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and beyond.

Bhalachandra Sankashti Chaturthi is the Krishna paksha Chaturthi devoted to Lord Ganesha, kept as a fast that is broken only after sighting the moon in the evening. Devotees offer durva grass and modak and pray for obstacles to dissolve and wishes to be fulfilled. Families in the UAE watch for the local moonrise and complete their arghya and aarti together. It is a patient, hopeful vrat, and keeping a small Ganesha near your prayer space holds his steadying blessing close through the day.

Pradosh Vrat falls on the Trayodashi tithi and is one of the most loved Shiva observances, kept in the soft twilight hour of Pradosh Kaal around sunset. Because this Pradosh is on a Sunday it is called Bhanu or Ravi Pradosh, held to be especially auspicious for health, vitality and inner strength. Devotees offer Gangajal and bilva leaves on the Shivling and light a diya as the sky changes colour. In UAE homes it is an easy, grounding ritual after a busy weekend, and keeping a rudraksha near the shrine helps settle the mind into calm devotion.

This Pradosh Vrat falls in the bright fortnight of Chaitra, kept in the tender Pradosh Kaal around sunset in honour of Lord Shiva. Being a Sunday, it is Bhanu Pradosh, held to be especially blessed for wellbeing, confidence and clear purpose. Devotees offer Gangajal and bilva leaves on the Shivling and light a diya as day turns to dusk. It is an easy evening ritual for UAE families, and a rudraksha kept near the shrine supports a calm, focused mind.

Bhanu Pradosh Vrat is the twilight Trayodashi worship of Lord Shiva on a Sunday, blending the grace of Mahadev with the vitality of Surya. Devotees offer gangajal and bilva at the Shivling during Pradosh Kaal near sunset, seeking health of spirit, clarity and steady blessings. UAE homes mark the evening with a diya and gentle chanting. It is a peaceful time to release tension and welcome balance and light.

Tuesday Pradosh Vrat for health and relief from debts.

A Tuesday Pradosh, observed at dusk for Lord Shiva to clear debts, fears and obstacles. Light a diya at sunset and offer gangajal for calm, steady energy at home.

Bhauma Pradosh falls on a Tuesday Trayodashi, a doubly auspicious alignment of Lord Shiva's Pradosh with Mangal's energy that is sought for relief from debts and obstacles. The vrat is observed by worshipping Shiva during the twilight Pradosh Kaal, offering Gangajal, bilva leaves and a lit diya. It is a calm, cleansing evening of devotion between the festivals of the month. Shiva devotees in Dubai and Sharjah gather at home shrines and temples to offer abhishekam as the sun sets.

Buddha Purnima, the full moon of Vaishakha, marks the birth, enlightenment and nirvana of Gautam Buddha, revered as an avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is also observed as Kurma Jayanti, and the day invites gentle acts of compassion, charity and quiet meditation. A moonlit prayer with a soft diya is a beautiful way to close the day in peace.

Thursday Pradosh Vrat for wisdom and wellbeing.

A Wednesday Pradosh for Lord Shiva, observed in the twilight Pradosh Kaal. Offer bel patra and gangajal to dissolve worries and invite balance into the home.

A Wednesday Pradosh, observed at dusk for Lord Shiva to smooth away obstacles and settle the mind. Light a diya at sunset and offer gangajal for calm, steady energy at home.

This Pradosh Vrat falls on a Wednesday, making it a Budha Pradosh dedicated to Lord Shiva. The twilight Pradosh Kaal around sunset, roughly 7:04 PM to 9:28 PM in Dubai, is considered the most blessed window to offer water and bilva leaves to the Shivling. Keeping a light fast and reciting the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra during this hour is said to bring peace and steady progress. It is a soothing mid-week pause to reconnect with Mahadev.

Falling on a Wednesday, this Shukla Pradosh is a Budha Pradosh dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Pradosh Kaal around sunset, roughly 7:09 PM to 9:33 PM in Dubai, is the ideal window to bathe the Shivling with water and offer bilva leaves. A light fast and the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra during this twilight hour are believed to bring calm and clarity. It is a gentle mid-week evening of devotion to Mahadev.

Chaitra Amavasya is the no-moon day that closes the lunar month of Chaitra, a quiet time to remember our ancestors with love. Devotees offer tarpan and shraddha, feed those in need and light a diya in gratitude for the blessings passed down to us. The stillness of Amavasya is ideal for meditation, japa and gently clearing the home of heaviness. Indian families across the UAE mark it softly with Gangajal, prayer and a few moments of remembrance before the new fortnight begins.

The Ashtami of Chaitra Navratri is a high point of the nine nights, honouring Maa Durga in her fierce and protective form. Devotees complete the Ashtami puja, and where observed, the Sandhi Puja at the Ashtami-Navami juncture is deeply powerful. Many perform Kanya Pujan, worshipping young girls as living forms of the Goddess. Across Dubai and the Northern Emirates, families gather for aarti and prasad, and a red or garnet-toned crystal near the kalash is kept as a symbol of courage and protective energy alignment.

Four-day thanksgiving to Surya with arghya at the setting and rising sun.

The four-day Surya vrat of gratitude to the Sun and Chhathi Maiya. Offer Sandhya Arghya at sunset for the wellbeing of family and children. Indian communities across Dubai and Sharjah gather by the water for evening arghya.

The birth of Lord Dattatreya, the union of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Devshayani Ekadashi marks the day Lord Vishnu is believed to enter his cosmic rest, beginning the sacred four months of Chaturmas. Devotees keep the Ekadashi fast with tulsi, gangajal and a ghee diya, breaking it the next morning after 5:39 AM Dubai time. From this day many UAE families take up simple vows of devotion, discipline and charity through Chaturmas. It is a hopeful, inward-turning day that sets a gentle spiritual rhythm for the weeks to come.

Vishnu wakes from Yoga Nidra; the wedding season begins.

Dev Uthani Ekadashi wakes Lord Vishnu from his four-month cosmic sleep and reopens the wedding and muhurat season. Chaturmas ends and auspicious beginnings return - a joyful day for UAE families planning new ventures.

Opens the five-day Diwali festival. Worship Lakshmi-Kubera; buy gold, silver or utensils.

Dhanteras, or Dhan Trayodashi, opens the five days of Diwali with the worship of Lord Dhanvantari, Goddess Lakshmi and Kubera, the keeper of wealth. It is considered highly auspicious to bring home something new, whether gold, silver, utensils or a sacred yantra, and to light the first lamps of the festival. Families perform Lakshmi-Kubera puja during the Pradosh twilight, inviting abundance and health for the year ahead. Across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, gold souks and pooja shelves glow as the Indian community welcomes prosperity home.

The Sun enters Sagittarius; the start of Kharmas.

The heart of the festival on Kartik Amavasya. A rare, auspicious Sunday Diwali in 2026.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is the most beloved night of the Hindu year, celebrating the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya and the worship of Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, wellbeing and grace. Homes are cleaned and adorned with diyas, rangoli and torans, and families gather for the evening Lakshmi Puja to invite prosperity and light into every corner. It is a night of gratitude, forgiveness and new beginnings. In the UAE, the Indian community celebrates on the evening of 29 October with lamps, sweets and fireworks lighting up Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The eighth night of Navratri, worship of Maha Gauri; Kanya Pujan.

Maha Ashtami is the eighth and most powerful day of Sharadiya Navratri, when the fierce and protective energy of Goddess Durga is at its peak. Homes resound with the worship of Mahagauri, kanya pujan and the sacred Sandhi Puja performed at the junction of Ashtami and Navami. Devotees offer red flowers, kumkum and coconut, seeking courage, protection and inner strength. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, community pandals and garba nights fill with the Mother's shakti, and families gather to honour young girls as living forms of the Devi.

Victory of good over evil - Durga over Mahishasura, Rama over Ravana. Auspicious for new beginnings.

Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, celebrates the triumph of good over evil, marking Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and Goddess Durga's slaying of Mahishasura. Observed during the auspicious aparahna and Vijaya Muhurat, it is regarded as one of the most fortunate days to begin new ventures, learning and journeys. Families exchange blessings, worship their tools and books, and light lamps of righteousness. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Ramlila performances and community gatherings bring the timeless story to life for the Indian community.

Ekadanta Sankashti Chaturthi is the Vaishakha Krishna Chaturthi vrat to Lord Ganesha, kept from sunrise until the sight of the moon. Devotees fast through the day, offer modak and durva, and break the vrat after moon darshan around 9:51 PM Dubai time. It is a heartfelt evening to ask Ganpati Bappa to clear obstacles from home and work alike.

Ganesha fast until moonrise, for the removal of obstacles.

Gajanana Sankashti Chaturthi is the monthly moonrise vrat to Lord Ganesha, kept to remove hurdles and ease worries. Devotees fast through the day and offer prayers at moonrise around 9:22 PM Dubai time, breaking the vrat after sighting the moon. It is a favourite vrat for UAE families seeking a smooth path in work, study and home life. Offer modak and durva to Ganpati and let his gentle strength carry your intentions forward.

Sankashti Chaturthi fast for Ganesha until moonrise.

The Krishna-paksha Ganesha vrat, broken after moonrise. Pray to Ganadhipa to dissolve difficulties and steady the mind. UAE devotees complete the fast when the moon rises in the evening.

Welcomes Ganesha home for the ten-day festival ending on Anant Chaturdashi (25 Sep).

Ganesh Chaturthi welcomes Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, into homes with love and celebration. The idol is installed and worshipped during the madhyahna (midday) hours with modak, durva grass and red flowers. Families begin new ventures on this day, seeking his blessings for a smooth and prosperous path. From the community Ganeshotsav pandals in Dubai to quiet home altars in Abu Dhabi, the ten day festival fills UAE Indian households with music, prasad and devotion.

Ganga Dussehra celebrates the descent of Maa Ganga to earth, falling on the Jyeshtha Shukla Dashami. Devotees remember the river's purifying grace by offering gangajal, lighting diyas and taking a symbolic holy dip at home. Charity and clean-water seva are considered especially blessed on this day. In the UAE, keeping a small kalash of gangajal at the altar is a beautiful way to invite the river goddess's blessings into daily life.

Worship of Krishna as the cowherd and the sacred cow; monthly Durga Ashtami.

Gopashtami honours Krishna the cowherd and the sacred cow, paired with the monthly Durga Ashtami. A day of nurture, protection and gratitude for the home, warmly observed by UAE families with morning puja.

Krishna lifting Govardhan; a mountain of food offered as prasad.

Govardhan Puja, celebrated the day after Diwali, honours Lord Krishna lifting the Govardhan hill to shelter the people of Vrindavan, a reminder of the divine care that protects all who take refuge. Devotees build small hills of food and prepare Annakut, a grand offering of many dishes, in gratitude for nature's abundance. It is a joyful day of community feasting and thanksgiving. Across Dubai and Sharjah, temples and homes lay out the Annakut spread and worship Krishna with fresh devotion.

This bright Pratipada is a joyful new beginning, celebrated as Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, Ugadi in the South and the first day of Chaitra Navratri across the country. Homes raise the Gudi, prepare festive dishes and install the kalash for nine days of devotion to Maa Durga through Ghatasthapana. It marks the Hindu lunar new year, a moment to set fresh intentions and welcome abundance. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, families gather for the new-year puja, and many keep a clear quartz near the shrine to hold an intention of fresh-start energy alignment for the year ahead.

A Thursday Pradosh, kept at dusk for Lord Shiva to bless learning, wisdom and steady progress. Light a diya at sunset and offer gangajal, holding a quiet wish for the path ahead.

Pradosh Vrat is observed at dusk on Trayodashi, the tender twilight hour when Lord Shiva is said to dance in joy and grant swift grace. Falling on a Thursday, this Guru Pradosh carries an added blessing of wisdom and guidance for the seeker. Offer gangajal and a ghee diya to the Shivling during the Pradosh Kaal from 7:12 PM Dubai time, and let the evening lamp settle the mind. For families across the UAE it is a gentle reset before the sacred Ashadha days ahead.

This Pradosh Vrat falls on the bright Shukla Trayodashi and again on a Thursday, pairing the grace of Lord Shiva with the wisdom of the Guru. Worship the Shivling with gangajal and a ghee lamp during the Pradosh Kaal from 7:10 PM Dubai time. The twilight prayer is said to dissolve worry and bring harmony to relationships and work. It is a soothing evening ritual for busy families across the Emirates.

Thursday Pradosh at twilight is a tender window to worship Shiva for wisdom, health and steady progress. Offer Gangajal and a diya during Pradosh Kaal.

Thursday Pradosh in the waning fortnight, a serene twilight window to worship Shiva for health and relief from burdens. Offer a diya during Pradosh Kaal.

Honours our teachers and Sage Vyasa - a day of gratitude, guru puja and study of sacred texts.

Guru Purnima, the full moon of Ashadha, is a day of deep gratitude to our gurus and to Sage Veda Vyasa. It honours every teacher who has guided us from darkness toward light, whether spiritual or worldly. Devotees offer flowers and a diya to their guru, chant sacred verses, and many observe Kokila Vrat with devotion. For the Indian community in the UAE it is a heartfelt day to remember mentors and elders with love and respect.

Hanuman Jayanti, on the full moon of Chaitra, celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, the embodiment of strength, devotion and fearless service. Devotees rise early, chant the Hanuman Chalisa and Sundara Kanda, and offer sindoor, a chameli-oil diya and boondi prasad. It is a day to invite courage, protection and unshakeable faith into life. Families across the UAE gather at Dubai's temples and at home for aarti, and many keep a red carnelian close as a symbol of strength and steady energy alignment.

Shravan new-moon for ancestor remembrance and tree planting.

Hariyali Amavasya is the green new-moon of Shravan, a day to honour ancestors and welcome the freshness the monsoon brings to the earth. Falling on a Monday this year it becomes a rare Somvati Amavasya, doubly auspicious for Shiva devotees and for offering tarpan and quiet prayer. Families in Dubai, Sharjah and across the UAE mark it with gangajal, tulsi and the planting of a sapling as a gesture of gratitude. It is a gentle day for cleansing intention and turning the heart towards renewal.

Women honour Shiva-Parvati with fasting, jhula and green attire.

Hariyali Teej celebrates the union of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva amid the green joy of Shravan. Women keep a loving fast for marital harmony and wellbeing, dressing in green, applying mehndi and swinging on flower-decked jhulas. Across the UAE, Indian families gather for Teej songs, kumkum and a shared evening of devotion. It is a warm day to invite harmony, gratitude and the blessings of Gauri into the home.

Women keep a strict fast worshipping Shiva-Parvati for marital harmony.

Hartalika Teej is a heartfelt vrat kept by married women for the wellbeing of their husbands and by unmarried girls praying for a good match. Goddess Parvati is worshipped for her unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva, honoured with a clay idol, green bangles and fresh flowers. Kept as a nirjala fast from sunrise, the puja is completed in the morning while Tritiya prevails. Across Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, women gather in green and gold to sing traditional Teej songs and share the joy of the season.

The Sankashti Chaturthi of Bhadrapada, worshipping Lord Ganesha as Heramba, the protector. Devotees keep a day-long fast and break it after sighting the moon, praying for obstacles to be cleared. Moonrise in the UAE is about 9:07 PM.

Heramba Sankashti Chaturthi is the Bhadrapada Krishna Chaturthi vrat to Lord Ganesha, kept until the sight of the moon. Devotees fast through the day, offer durva and modak, and break the vrat after moonrise while praying for obstacles to dissolve. Ganesha devotees across the UAE observe this monthly Sankashti with quiet faith and a lit diya. It is a grounding day to steady the mind and clear the way toward new goals.

Holi, the festival of colours, celebrates the playful love of Radha and Krishna and the joyful triumph of good over darkness. Neighbourhoods fill with gulal, laughter, sweets and music as friends and families forgive, reunite and begin afresh. Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, Holi gatherings have become a beloved springtime tradition for the Indian community. It is a day to soften old grudges and let colour and kindness lead, and skin-friendly herbal gulal keeps the play gentle and the celebration pure.

Holika Dahan lights the eve of Holi, recalling how young Prahlad's devotion to Lord Vishnu carried him safely through the fire while pride was consumed. Families gather at dusk around the sacred bonfire during Pradosh, offering grains, coconut and prayers for the burning away of negativity. Across the UAE, community Holika Dahan and Holi events bring neighbours together in warmth and song. It is a night of release and renewal, a moment to let go of what no longer serves and welcome light.

Ekadashi during Pitru Paksha; merit offered to ancestors.

Indira Ekadashi falls in the heart of Pitru Paksha and is uniquely dedicated to the peace of departed ancestors. Devotees keep the fast and worship Lord Vishnu, offering the merit of the vrat for the upliftment of their forebears. It is believed to bring comfort to ancestral souls and blessings of harmony to the family. UAE families observe it gently, pairing Vishnu prayers with a thought for those who came before.

Jagannath Rath Yatra celebrates Lord Jagannath, brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra riding out on grand chariots to bless every devotee on the street. It is a joyful festival of togetherness, when the Lord himself comes out to meet his people. Community groups across the UAE mark the day with kirtan, prasad and a shared spirit of devotion. Offer gangajal and sweets, and simply join the wave of chanting to feel the Lord close.

Jaya Ekadashi is a purifying fast for Lord Vishnu, said to free the mind of past burdens and negativity. A calm, hopeful vrat for UAE families to pray, chant and reset with a light heart.

Day one of the three-day Jyeshtha Gauri observance. Gauri is welcomed into the house as a daughter returning home, on Anuradha Nakshatra. Kumkum footprints are drawn from the doorway to the mandir and the two Gauris, Jyeshtha and Kanishtha, are installed beside Ganesha.

The main worship day of Jyeshtha Gauri, on Jyeshtha Nakshatra. Gauri is offered a full puja and a naivedya of festive dishes, and relatives and neighbours are invited to take darshan. She is worshipped here in her Mahalakshmi form, for prosperity and family harmony.

The farewell day, on Mula Nakshatra. After a final aarti the Gauris are given a loving send-off and immersed, with a prayer that she returns next year. In 2026 it falls on a Saturday, so UAE families have the full weekend morning for it.

The appearance day of Kaal Bhairav, the fierce and protective form of Shiva. Midnight prayers seek courage, protection and freedom from fear. Light a lamp at nishita for the guardian of time.

Kamada Ekadashi is the first Ekadashi of the new Hindu year, falling in bright Chaitra, and its name means the one that fulfils heartfelt desires. Devotees fast and worship Lord Vishnu with tulsi, Gangajal and the vrat katha, seeking freedom from past burdens and the blessing of sincere wishes. It is a gentle, hopeful start to the year's Ekadashi cycle. Families in Dubai and Abu Dhabi keep it simply at home, breaking the fast at parana the following morning.

Ekadashi fast devoted to Lord Vishnu for purification and merit.

Kamika Ekadashi, the first Ekadashi of the holy Shravan season, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is rich in merit. Devotees keep the fast with tulsi, gangajal and a ghee diya, breaking it the next morning after 5:46 AM Dubai time. It is believed to wash away faults and fulfil sincere wishes, a fitting start to the devotional weeks of Sawan. For UAE families it is a peaceful day to reset with prayer, simple food and quiet gratitude.

The Sun transits into Kanya (Virgo), beginning the Kanya solar month, a time linked with Vishwakarma Puja and ancestral remembrance. Offer water to Surya at sunrise and give daan for prosperity and family wellbeing.

Kanya Sankranti marks the Sun entering Kanya (Virgo), a time honoured for charity, gratitude and worship of Lord Surya. Devotees offer arghya to the rising sun and give food and clothing to those in need, drawing in fresh, positive energy for the weeks ahead. In many regions it is also observed as Vishwakarma Puja, blessing tools and trade. For UAE families, an early morning Surya offering is a simple, uplifting way to welcome the new solar month.

Karka Sankranti marks the Sun's entry into Cancer and the start of Dakshinayana, the sun's southward journey. It is a sacred turning point traditionally kept with charity, gratitude and a simple Surya prayer at sunrise. Offer arghya with gangajal to the rising sun and share food with those in need, a beautiful practice for UAE families. The day invites us to slow down and turn inward as the devotional season of Ashadha and Shravan deepens.

Dev Deepawali full-moon and the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

The luminous full moon of Kartik, also Dev Diwali and Guru Nanak Jayanti. Float diyas, offer prayers and honour the light of the divine and the Guru. UAE temples and gurudwaras glow with lamps and kirtan.

Married women fast from sunrise to moonrise for their husbands, and increasingly couples keep it together. The moon is sighted through a sieve, arghya is offered, and the fast is broken. Vakratunda Sankashti falls the same day.

Karwa Chauth is the cherished fast observed by married women for the long life and wellbeing of their husbands, and increasingly by couples together as a day of love and devotion. Kept from sunrise without food or water, it is broken only after sighting the moon through a sieve and offering arghya. Falling on the Kartik Krishna Chaturthi, it also carries the blessings of Sankashti and Lord Ganesha. In Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, women gather for sargi, mehendi and moonrise celebrations, turning the evening into a warm community occasion.

Lakshmi's night vigil. The name asks ko jagarti, who is awake, because the goddess is said to walk at midnight and bless those still keeping watch. Kept mainly in Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Maharashtra and Mithila.

The birth of Lord Krishna at midnight in Mathura. Fast, bhajans and midnight aarti. ISKCON: Sat 5 Sep.

Krishna Janmashtami celebrates the midnight birth of Lord Krishna, observed with joyful fasting, bhajans and the Nishita Kaal puja. Devotees adorn baby Krishna, offer makhan, panjiri and tulsi, and rock the cradle at midnight amid chants of his name. Temples and homes across Dubai and the UAE come alive with jhankis and devotion (ISKCON observes Janmashtami on 25 August). It is a night of pure love and celebration of the divine within every heart.

This Sankashti Chaturthi falls on a Tuesday, making it a rare and powerful Angarki Sankashti dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Named Krishnapingala, the vrat is kept from sunrise until moon darshan, which is around 9:47 PM in Dubai, and is broken only after offering arghya to the moon. Devotees offer modak and durva while praying for obstacles to dissolve, and the Tuesday adds the strength of Mangal and Hanuman to the day. Angarki Sankashti is considered especially fruitful for those facing persistent difficulties.

Kumbha Sankranti marks the Sun's move into Aquarius and the start of a calm, reflective month. Offer Surya arghya at sunrise and share warmth with those in need to open a fresh, hopeful phase.

Birth anniversary of Sri Madhvacharya, founder of Dvaita Vedanta and of the Udupi Sri Krishna Matha. Observed on Vijayadashami tithi, the same day as Vidyarambham.

Magha Purnima glows with Satyanarayan puja and the holy Magh snan, a full moon of gratitude and gentle charity. UAE families gather for katha, share prasad and set kind resolutions for the season.

The ninth night, worship of Siddhidatri; Navami puja follows Sandhi Puja.

Maha Navami marks the ninth day of Navratri, dedicated to Maa Siddhidatri who grants fulfilment and spiritual accomplishment. It is a day of havan, kanya pujan and heartfelt gratitude as the nine nights of devotion draw to a close. Devotees offer their final prayers to the Divine Mother, seeking her grace for health, harmony and prosperity. Across the UAE, from home altars in Sharjah to grand community celebrations in Dubai, the day glows with lamps, song and the joy of shared worship.

Maha Shivaratri is the great night of Lord Shiva, the most powerful Shiva vrat of the year. Devotees fast through the day and keep a loving vigil through the night, offering bilva leaves, milk and Gangajal on the Shivling and chanting Om Namah Shivaya. The Nishita Kaal puja after midnight is the most auspicious moment to feel his presence. Across the UAE, families gather at the Shiva temples in Dubai and at home shrines for jagran and aarti. Keeping a rudraksha close through the night helps hold the mind in steady, quiet devotion.

Makar Sankranti marks the Sun's turn towards the north, opening a bright and auspicious phase. UAE families welcome longer days with til-gud, Surya arghya and warm wishes for prosperity.

New-moon of Margashirsha; tarpan for ancestors.

The no-moon day of Margashirsha, dedicated to ancestors and quiet reflection. Offer tarpan and a lamp in gratitude to the departed.

Monthly Ashtami fast in honour of Goddess Durga.

Monthly Ashtami fast in honour of Goddess Durga.

The monthly Ashtami of Maa Durga, honoured with red flowers, kumkum and a lit akhand diya. A day to draw on the Mother's courage and protective energy at home.

Masik Durgashtami honours Maa Durga on the Shukla Ashtami of each month. Devotees offer red flowers, kumkum and a lit diya to the Goddess, praying for protection, courage and the removal of fear. A day of light fasting and Durga Chalisa recitation is believed to fill the home with shakti and quiet confidence. For UAE families it is a gentle monthly moment to feel the Mother's strength close by.

Masik Durgashtami honours Maa Durga on the Shukla Ashtami of each month, celebrating her strength and protective grace. Devotees light an akhand diya, offer red flowers and kumkum, and seek her courage for the days ahead. For women and families across the UAE it is a comforting day to feel the Mother's shakti close by. Sincere prayer on this Ashtami is said to steady the mind and lift the whole home with fresh energy.

Masik Durgashtami is the monthly Ashtami dedicated to Goddess Durga, the fierce and loving mother who guards her devotees. Falling within Shravan and on a Monday, it carries the added devotion of a Sawan Somwar for many families. Devotees offer red flowers, kumkum and akhand jyoti, seeking courage, protection and inner strength. Across the UAE, women gather for Durga aarti and a shared sense of shakti and grace.

The monthly Ashtami of Maa Durga, honoured with red flowers, a lit diya and the Durga Chalisa. A day for UAE devotees to draw on the Mother's courage and protective grace.

Masik Durgashtami is the monthly Shukla Ashtami sacred to Maa Durga, a day to draw on her courage and protective grace. Devotees offer red flowers, kumkum and a lit diya, and many keep a light fast in her honour. Across the UAE, mothers and daughters often come together for a short evening aarti and Durga Chalisa. It is a strengthening day for the whole family, and a red garnet stone worn with intention supports a sense of steady inner power.

Masik Durgashtami is the monthly Ashtami dedicated to Maa Durga, a day to seek her strength, protection and grace. Light a diya, offer red flowers and kumkum, and chant her name for courage in daily life. Families across the Emirates often keep a small morning puja and share prasad to carry her blessings through the month.

Monthly observance of Krishna's birth tithi and Kalabhairava.

Monthly night of Shiva worship with abhishek and Om Namah Shivaya.

Monthly night of Shiva worship with abhishek and Om Namah Shivaya.

Monthly night of Shiva worship with abhishek and Om Namah Shivaya.

Masik Shivaratri is the monthly night of Lord Shiva, observed on the Krishna Chaturdashi of Jyeshtha. The Nishita Kaal near midnight, about 11:53 PM to 12:41 AM in Dubai, is the heart of the vigil, when devotees offer gangajal, bilva and a ghee diya to the Shivling. Fasting and quiet chanting through the night are believed to dissolve worries and renew inner strength. For UAE families it is a serene way to invite Shiva's grace into the home.

Masik Shivaratri arrives each month on the Krishna Chaturdashi, the night most beloved to Lord Shiva. Devotees keep a light fast and offer bilva leaves, gangajal and a steady diya during the Nishita Kaal near midnight. Observed with quiet devotion in homes and temples across Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, it is a night for inner stillness and gentle letting go. Chanting the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra brings a calm, protected feeling to the whole household.

Masik Shivaratri is the monthly night of Lord Shiva, kept on the Krishna Chaturdashi with fasting and midnight worship. Devotees offer gangajal, bilva leaves and a steady diya to the Shivling through the Nishita Kaal, chanting Om Namah Shivaya. Falling on a Monday, it carries added devotion for Shiva bhaktas across UAE homes and temples. It is a still, powerful night to seek strength, healing intention and inner peace.

Masik Shivaratri is the monthly night of Lord Shiva, observed with a night vigil and puja during the Nishita Kaal around midnight. Devotees offer water, bilva leaves and heartfelt prayers, seeking inner stillness and the dissolving of fear. It is a night for meditation, mantra and quiet energy alignment with intention. UAE devotees often keep a light fast and gather for late evening darshan before the midnight worship.

The monthly night of Shiva on Krishna Chaturdashi. Nishita puja with Gangajal and a steady lamp deepens devotion and inner stillness.

The monthly night of Shiva, kept with abhishek and Om Namah Shivaya through the Nishita hour. A quiet, powerful vigil for devotees across the UAE seeking inner stillness.

The monthly night of Shiva, kept with abhishek and Om Namah Shivaya through the Nishita hour. A quiet, powerful vigil for devotees across the UAE seeking inner stillness.

Masik Shivaratri is the monthly night of Lord Shiva, observed on the Krishna Chaturdashi with fasting and a quiet vigil. The Nishita Kaal puja near midnight is the heart of the night, when devotees offer milk, Gangajal and bilva on the Shivling and chant Om Namah Shivaya. It is a beautiful monthly rhythm of devotion that keeps the heart close to Shiva through the year. Families in Dubai and Sharjah keep it simply at home, and a rudraksha held through the aarti supports steady, peaceful focus.

Masik Shivaratri is the monthly night of Lord Shiva, observed in the Nishita Kaal around midnight. Devotees offer Gangajal, bilva leaves and a steady diya, letting the quiet of the night deepen their meditation and inner stillness. A clear quartz or rudraksha kept near the altar can support focus and energy alignment as you chant through the vigil.

Mauni Amavasya is the great Magh new moon of silence, snan and daan, when a still mind and a giving hand bring deep peace. UAE families remember ancestors with tarpan and offer gangajal in quiet gratitude.

Meena Sankranti marks the Sun's entry into Meena rashi and the close of the solar zodiac year. The Punya Kaal around the transit is a blessed window for charity, a holy bath and offering Arghya to Surya at sunrise. In the UAE many begin the day with a small water offering to the rising sun and a prayer for health and clarity. It is a fresh, light-filled turning point, and a carnelian or citrine held in the morning sun supports warm, energising intention.

Birth anniversary of Meera Bai, the Rajput princess who left Mewar for Krishna and whose bhajans are still sung five centuries later. Falls on the Purnima that is present at sunrise, which is the day after Sharad Purnima.

Mesha Sankranti marks the Sun's entry into Aries and the solar new year, celebrated as Baisakhi, Vishu, Puthandu and Pohela Boishakh across different regions. It is a day of gratitude to Surya Dev for light, health and the harvest, observed with holy baths, charity and prayer at sunrise. The rising Sun is honoured with Gangajal and simple offerings. For the Indian community in the UAE it is a warm reminder of home and new beginnings, a good morning to greet the Sun and set intentions for the season ahead.

Mithuna Sankranti marks the Sun's entry into Mithuna rashi, with the Punya Kaal from about 5:25 PM to sunset in Dubai. It signals a seasonal turn and is a favoured time for Surya worship, charity and offering arghya to the sun. Devotees light a diya and share food and water with those in need. It is a quiet, grateful day to honour the Sun's steady energy over the home.

Mohini Ekadashi recalls the enchanting Mohini form of Lord Vishnu and is believed to free the heart from confusion and sorrow. Keep a simple fast, offer tulsi and chant Vishnu's name, letting the day settle the mind into peace. Breaking the fast the next morning at Parana time completes the vrat with gratitude.

The day Krishna revealed the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna.

Worship of the serpent gods for protection and prosperity.

Nag Panchami honours the sacred serpents, the Nagas, who are beloved companions of Lord Shiva during holy Shravan. Devotees offer milk, flowers and prayers for protection, healing intention and freedom from fear. In UAE homes, families remember this gentle tradition with a simple puja and a lit diya. It is a day of respect for nature's guardians and for the quiet courage they represent.

Krishna's victory over Narakasura; the abhyanga oil bath at dawn.

Narak Chaturdashi, also called Choti Diwali or Kali Chaudas, remembers Lord Krishna's victory over the demon Narakasura and the freeing of light from darkness. Devotees rise before dawn for the Abhyanga Snan, a ritual oil bath believed to cleanse negativity and bring radiance. Homes are lit with a few lamps in anticipation of the grand Lakshmi Puja to follow. In the UAE, families begin the pre-dawn rituals quietly at home before the festive glow of Diwali evening across Dubai and Sharjah.

Narasimha Jayanti honours the fierce lion-man avatar of Lord Vishnu, who appeared at dusk to protect his devotee Prahlad and restore dharma. The evening Sayankal hour is the heart of the worship, with a lamp, kumkum and prayers for courage and protection from harm. It is a powerful reminder that faith is guarded even in the darkest moment.

Nirjala Ekadashi is the most revered of all Ekadashis, kept without even water on the Jyeshtha Shukla Ekadashi. It is said to grant the merit of all twenty-four Ekadashis of the year, so devotees fast fully and worship Lord Vishnu with tulsi and gangajal. The vrat is broken the next morning after 5:29 AM Dubai time, often with the joyful gift of water and sherbet to others. In the UAE summer heat, offering cool water and food in charity carries especially deep meaning. Gayatri Jayanti is honoured around the same time.

Ekadashi that grants the fruit of penance and Vishnu's grace.

Papankusha Ekadashi is the Shukla paksha Ekadashi of Ashwin, devoted to Lord Vishnu in his Padmanabha form. It is believed to wash away accumulated sins and grant peace, longevity and liberation to sincere devotees. The day is kept with fasting, Vishnu Sahasranama chanting and a night of devotion, with parana observed the next morning. For Vishnu devotees across the UAE, it is a serene pause of prayer and gratitude soon after the joy of Navratri and Dussehra.

Papmochani Ekadashi is the last Ekadashi of the Hindu year, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and its very name means the one that washes away past sins. Devotees keep a day-long fast, chant Vishnu's names and read the vrat katha to invite forgiveness, clarity and a fresh start. It is a gentle threshold just before Chaitra and the new year that follows. Families across Dubai and Abu Dhabi observe it simply at home with Gangajal, tulsi and a lit diya, breaking the fast at parana the next morning.

Vishnu turns to his side in Yoga Nidra - an Ekadashi of great merit.

Parivartini Ekadashi, also called Parsva or Vamana Ekadashi, falls during Chaturmas when Lord Vishnu is believed to turn to His side in cosmic slumber. Devotees keep a fast and worship the Vamana avatar, seeking release from past burdens and steady grace. The day is spent in gentle prayer, Vishnu Sahasranama chanting and light satvik food. UAE families break the fast the next morning during the parana window with a calm, thankful heart.

The Paush new moon is a time to remember ancestors with tarpan and shraddh, and to offer gangajal in gratitude. A serene day for reflection as the Magh snan season nears.

Paush Purnima glows with Satyanarayan puja and marks the start of the holy Magh snan. A full-moon day of gratitude, charity and gentle new resolutions for the year ahead.

Paush Putrada Ekadashi is kept by parents praying for the wellbeing of their children, with fasting and Vishnu bhajan. A heartfelt vrat for families settled across the UAE.

Phalguna Amavasya is a quiet no-moon day for remembering our ancestors with gratitude and offering tarpan and shraddh. Falling on a Monday, it is also a gentle day for Lord Shiva. Many families in the UAE light a diya, offer water to the pitrus and share food with those in need, trusting that kindness reaches those who came before us. It is a naturally reflective day, well suited to a slow morning of prayer and a clean, calm home.

The first tithi shraddha of Pitru Paksha, which runs 26 September to 10 October 2026. Performed in the afternoon windows, not in the morning.