The festival of lights is just around the corner, and for the massive Indian diaspora in the United Arab Emirates, the celebrations begin with Dhanteras. This auspicious day, which heralds the start of Diwali, is deeply significant for new beginnings, wealth, and prosperity.
When is Dhanteras 2025 in the UAE?
In 2025, Dhanteras will be celebrated with great fervor across the UAE on Tuesday, October 21st. The festival falls on the thirteenth lunar day (Trayodashi) of the Krishna Paksha in the Hindu month of Kartik.
The All-Important Dhanteras Muhurat (Auspicious Timings)
Timing is everything on Dhanteras. Performing puja and buying precious metals during the 'shubh muhurat' is believed to multiply the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi.
- Dhanteras Puja Muhurat: The most auspicious time for puja is expected to be between 06:45 PM and 08:15 PM (UAE local time).
- Trayodashi Tithi Begins: The Trayodashi tithi begins at 07:23 AM on October 21, 2025.
- Trayodashi Tithi Ends: It concludes at 05:47 AM on October 22, 2025.
Sacred Rituals to Follow on Dhanteras
Observing the traditional rituals on Dhanteras is believed to ward off negativity and invite wealth and good health into the home.
- Cleaning and Decorating: Homes are thoroughly cleaned and adorned with beautiful rangoli designs and diyas at the entrance to welcome Goddess Lakshmi.
- Buying Gold and Silver: The most popular tradition is purchasing items made of gold, silver, brass, or copper. From jewellery to coins and even new utensils, this act symbolizes the acquisition of new wealth.
- Evening Puja: As evening sets in, families gather to worship Lord Kubera (the God of Wealth) and Goddess Lakshmi. A lamp of wheat flour is lit and offered to Lord Yama, the God of Death, to pray for the family's protection from untimely death.
- Lighting Diyas: Thirteen diyas (earthen lamps) are lit and kept facing south outside the home. This is done to appease Yama and protect the family from any misfortune.
Why is Buying Gold So Significant on Dhanteras?
Dhanteras, also known as 'Dhanatrayodashi', derives from 'Dhan' meaning wealth. Investing in precious metals on this day is considered extremely auspicious and is believed to bring multiplied prosperity and good fortune throughout the year. For the Indian community in the UAE, this tradition sees a massive rush to gold souks and jewellery stores.
So, mark your calendars for October 21, 2025! Prepare to immerse yourself in the divine spirit of Dhanteras, perform the sacred rituals, and perhaps make that glittering investment you've been planning, all while embracing the rich cultural heritage in the heart of the UAE.
