Dubai’s Largest Rangoli of Spices Unveiled at Waterfront Market to Celebrate Diwali
The Waterfront Market, Dubai’s largest food market and home to over 800 varieties of produce, has unveiled Dubai’s largest Rangoli of Spices to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights. Crafted using more than 60 kilograms of aromatic spices including cinnamon, turmeric, chilli, coriander, and cloves, the six-metre by six-metre Rangoli is on display from October 8 to 26.
The grand unveiling ceremony welcomed Mr. Sunil Kumar, Consul (Passport) from the Consulate General of India, along with representatives from the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE). The event forms part of DFRE’s city-wide Festival of Lights celebrations, reflecting the spirit of unity, cultural appreciation, and community engagement.
The artistic masterpiece reimagines a beloved Indian tradition using natural ingredients sourced directly from the Market, filling the atrium with vivid colours and rich fragrances. Beyond its visual appeal, the installation celebrates Dubai’s multicultural essence and the Market’s role as a destination where tradition, cuisine, and creativity converge.
Celebrating Diwali with food, colour, and community
The Waterfront Market has also curated festive experiences designed to delight families and food lovers alike, offering visitors a unique way to embrace Diwali’s joy through taste, texture, and togetherness.
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Sweet traditions: Diwali is synonymous with sweets and sharing. The Market’s Dry Goods & Spices section offers over 250 varieties of dates, nuts, and dried fruits — including cashews, pistachios, and almonds — essential for festive recipes and gifting. Shoppers can also explore premium spices like saffron, cardamom, and nutmeg that add depth and aroma to traditional mithais.
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A colourful harvest: With produce from over 80 local farms and global imports, the Fruits & Vegetables Market showcases more than 160 varieties of fresh produce. During Diwali, visitors can find authentic Indian ingredients such as jujube (ber), ivy gourd (tindora), drumsticks, okra, pumpkin, and custard apples (sitaphal) — key ingredients in celebratory meals and offerings.
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Festive fun for little ones: The Market also ensures that children can join in the festivities with the Foodie Explorer Passport and Little Rollers—kid-sized trolleys that transform shopping into an interactive adventure. This initiative encourages young visitors to learn, discover, and participate in family traditions.
As the culinary and cultural hub of the community, the Waterfront Market continues to serve as a vibrant space where people gather to celebrate togetherness through food and culture. From aromatic spices to fresh produce, the Market offers everything needed to create festive memories that blend tradition with modern family fun.
