UAE leaders congratulate those celebrating Diwali

All those who are celebrating Diwali have received congratulations from UAE leaders. This week, in honor of the five-day festival of lights that began on Monday, homes and balconies throughout the Emirates are decorated with floral arrangements and strings of lights.

The festival-goers received the president’s best wishes for a tranquil and fruitful new year from Sheikh Mohamed.

“Congratulations to all of those in the UAE and around the world celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights, and may the year ahead be one of peace, prosperity, and happiness for you and your families,” he said, writing on Twitter, with the message also posted in Arabic and Hindi.

Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, also greeted those who were celebrating this year and sent his best wishes.

“On the behalf of the people of the UAE, we congratulate all those who celebrate Diwali. Wishing them a happy festival,” he said on Twitter.

Diwali, which represents the victory of good over evil and light over darkness, usually occurs in the early fall and coincides with the new moon, which is regarded as the darkest night in the Hindu lunar calendar.

Diwali is primarily a Hindu celebration, but it is also observed by Jains, Sikhs, and a small number of Buddhists.