With the bigger pool of Indian expats in the UAE, this weekend, many will take a small break to celebrate Holi, the festival of colours. This vivacious spring festival symbolises the victory of good over evil, marking the end of cooler days. If you’re living in the UAE, and looking forward to celebrating Holi with your friends and family, here’s your checklist. From smearing colors to relishing traditional delights, Dubai has it all.
Punjab Grill
This year, Holi 2025 falls on the weekend, giving people a chance to celebrate at ease. With Punjab Grill’s Holi special menu, folks can gather for a fun get-together. From March 14 to 16, the restaurant is offering dishes like the Chaat Platter (AED70), Sumac Spiced Chicken Tikka (AED85), Kakori Lamb Seekh Kebab (AED95), among others. One can end the celebration with traditional Holi like Thandai Panna Cotta with Berries (AED35) or Malpua with Rabdi (AED35).
Mausam
On March 14, Dubai Mall’s newest dining destination, Mausam, has a specially curated Holi Thali available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian options priced at (AED155) per person. Main highlights include Murgh Banjara Tikkas, Dal Makhani, Malpua Rabri and Balusahi, among others, along with some beverages. Timings for the same are from 10 am to 12 am.
The Permit Room
From 14 to 16 March, The Permit Room’s rooftop will be adorned with Holi colors. For (AED20), one can enjoy a glass of North Indian drink and two Gujiyas (deeply-fried sweets). For the ones looking at sprinkling a dash of colors, they have that as well, making it a proper space for the Gen Zs to gather.
Varq
From today until March 16, Varq has a specially crafted 3-course menu, which will include some of India’s most loved dishes. One can opt for this at (AED350) per person, from 12 pm to 3 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm. They have the Bhalla topped with Beetroot, Avocado and Green Peas Kebabs, Tikkas with Sprouts and Raw Mango with Sorbet. There’s also a Kathal Biryani that’s different from usual.
Chatori Gali
This Holi, Chatori Gali, famous for chaat, is offering a big deal. One can start the celebration with complimentary Thandai, and savour sweet treats like Jalebi (AED25), Rabri (AED25), and Gujiya. Some famous Indian delights such as Chole Bhature (AED32) and Aloo Puri (AED22), will also be a part of the special menu. The most exciting part is that people can grab a Kebab platter, free of charge.
Bombay Brasserie
This Holi, Bombay Brasserie, Taj Dubai has a special feast for (AED249) per person, featuring live chaat stations, festive sweets, and mocktails. To add to festive cheer, there’s also a live sitar performance, a photobooth and commemorative takeaway gifts, making the experience even more memorable.
Aminia
Aminia Restaurant in Karama also has something special this weekend. To start off, guests will be greeted with a complimentary glass of Thandai, followed by a special buy 1 get 1 free offer on Firni (sweet dish). One can try their signature dishes like Biryani, Smoked Kebabs, and Rich Curries, which will make you feel like you’re right at home in India. They’re also very famous for their Mutton Haleem from Zakaria Street, a blend of spice that they’ve been using since 1929.
(Images sourced from the restaurant’s Instagram handles)
