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Writer's pictureVincent Arthur

Onam in the UAE: A Heartfelt Celebration of Culture, Tradition, and Togetherness

Updated: Oct 9


Onam, the vibrant harvest festival of Kerala, is celebrated with great enthusiasm not only in India but also by the Malayali community across the globe. The UAE, with its diverse population and significant Keralite presence, turns into a cultural melting pot during this time, as Onam becomes more than just a traditional festival—it becomes a celebration of community, culture, and togetherness.


In the UAE, the hustle and bustle leading up to Onam is palpable, especially in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, where the Keralite diaspora is strong. The festive spirit transcends borders, as families, friends, and communities gather to celebrate the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali, whose reign was considered a golden era of peace and prosperity.


The Story Behind Onam


Onam’s significance comes from the legend of King Mahabali, an asura (demon) king, known for his generosity and just rule. According to Hindu mythology, Mahabali’s reign was so perfect that even the gods became envious of his popularity among his people. Lord Vishnu, in his Vamana avatar, was sent to humble the king, but before leaving, Mahabali was granted the boon to return once a year to visit his people. Onam is celebrated to mark this occasion, a reminder of harmony, unity, and gratitude for nature's bountiful harvest.


While the festival is rooted in tradition, it has evolved into a symbol of cultural pride, and for Malayalis living far from home in the UAE, it becomes a way to reconnect with their heritage.


Onam in the UAE: A Home Away From Home


The Malayali population in the UAE has brought with it rich traditions, and Onam is celebrated on a grand scale in various parts of the country. Though it’s far from Kerala, the essence of Onam remains intact, with the community coming together to keep the cultural spirit alive.


Shopping malls, schools, and residential communities join in the celebration by organizing special events, including performances, parades, and competitions. The day typically begins with an early morning bath, followed by a visit to temples, or for those who cannot access a temple, a prayer at home is equally common. For many Keralites in the UAE, the festive spirit is not dampened by distance—rather, it is amplified by the camaraderie and unity felt within the community.


Pookalam: Floral Art in the Desert


One of the most iconic aspects of Onam is the Pookalam, or floral carpet, which is laid out in front of homes and public spaces. In the UAE, where fresh flowers can be a luxury, the community finds creative ways to maintain the tradition. Florists are stocked well in advance with marigolds, jasmine, and chrysanthemums, and in some cases, artificial flowers are used to create the intricate designs.


The Pookalam competitions, especially in schools and cultural centers, are a visual treat. People of all ages participate, bringing the streets and homes to life with bright colors. While sourcing flowers in a desert country can be challenging, the dedication to keeping this tradition alive highlights the community's deep-rooted connection to their culture.


The Grand Feast: Onam Sadya


No Onam celebration is complete without the Onam Sadya—the traditional feast served on a banana leaf. While cooking an elaborate Sadya might be challenging in busy city lives, many Malayali families in the UAE either prepare the Sadya at home or visit one of the many restaurants that offer special Onam feasts during the festival.


The Sadya typically consists of 26 or more vegetarian dishes, including rice, sambar, avial, thoran, pachadi, and the must-have payasam for dessert. In the UAE, restaurants and catering services go all out during Onam, offering traditional fare to large crowds who gather to celebrate. Special Sadya delivery services are also available for those who prefer to enjoy the feast from the comfort of their homes. The buzz around the Sadya is always high, with many restaurants taking pre-orders and offering special deals during the festival.


Traditional Onam Games and Performances


The UAE may not have the open fields for the traditional Onam games like Vallamkali (boat races) or Pulikali (tiger dance), but that doesn’t stop the community from keeping the festive spirit alive. Cultural centers and associations organize events that include traditional music, dance performances like Thiruvathira, and even small-scale tug-of-war games to maintain the essence of Onam.


In Dubai, for instance, community halls often host events that see participation from both children and adults. Women clad in traditional Kerala kasavu sarees perform the graceful Thiruvathira dance, while men don the traditional mundu. The joy and enthusiasm during these performances serve as a reminder that Onam is more than just a religious festival—it’s a celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.


A Festival of Inclusivity


What makes Onam truly special in the UAE is the spirit of inclusivity. The festival is not only celebrated by the Malayali community but is embraced by people from all nationalities and backgrounds. Friends and colleagues from diverse cultures are often invited to join the celebrations, offering them a taste of Kerala’s traditions and hospitality.


In offices across the UAE, it's not uncommon to find multi-national teams gathering for a special Onam Sadya. Schools also get involved, with students from various backgrounds participating in cultural programs, decorating the school premises with Pookalams, and learning about the significance of Onam.


Onam in a Modern World


Despite the challenges of living in a fast-paced, global city, Malayalis in the UAE make a concerted effort to celebrate Onam with the same enthusiasm and fervor as they would back home. With social media playing a significant role, the younger generation finds new ways to engage with the festival—whether it’s by sharing Pookalam designs, cooking tutorials, or even organizing virtual celebrations with loved ones back in Kerala.


The sense of belonging and community is what makes Onam in the UAE so special. For many Keralites, the UAE has become a second home, and the celebration of Onam here is a reminder of their roots, their traditions, and the joy that comes from sharing them with others.


A Celebration Beyond Borders


Onam in the UAE is not just a celebration of a festival—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and connection. It serves as a reminder that no matter where you are in the world, traditions can transcend borders and bring people together. For Malayalis in the UAE, Onam is a way to honor their heritage, share their culture with others, and experience the joy of togetherness, even thousands of miles away from home.


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