Emirates marks Diwali with sweets, drinks, and 167 films
Key points
- Diwali menu runs October 17-24 on India routes
- All cabins get motichoor laddu on select flights
- First and Business add pista rolls on Dubai, India flights
- Select lounges offer festive snacks and mocktails
- ice features up to 167 Indian movies and 14 TV shows
Impact
- When
- October 17-24, 2025
- Where
- Flights between Dubai and nine Indian cities; select lounges in Dubai, Cape Town, Johannesburg
- Who
- All travelers; added items in First and Business
- What To Do
- Arrive early for lounges, preselect ice playlists, flag dietary needs in advance
Emirates is rolling out Diwali treats from October 17 to 24, adding classic sweets onboard and festive bites in select lounges. The celebration covers flights between Dubai and nine Indian cities, with all cabins receiving motichoor laddu on select services. First and Business Class add pista rolls, while lounges in Dubai and two South African gateways offer Diwali snacks and nonalcoholic options. The airline is also spotlighting up to 167 Indian movies on ice, alongside TV and music picks. For travelers, the limited window means planning ahead matters.
Emirates Diwali celebrations across routes and lounges
The carrier's Diwali program centers on routes linking Dubai International Airport (DXB) and major Indian cities. Emirates says all cabins will see a sweet course of motichoor laddu on select flights. Premium cabins add pista rolls, the cashew and pistachio confection often finished with edible silver. In the lounges, Dubai features mango sandwich, balushahi, mini kesar rasgullas, and other seasonal items. Emirates also lists Diwali selections in Cape Town and Johannesburg for travelers connecting through those hubs.
Analysis
For travelers chasing the full Emirates Diwali celebrations experience, book itineraries that route through Dubai, then plan a longer connection to sample the lounge menu. If sweets are not for you, pre-order a special meal, since Diwali items are additions, not substitutions, and availability can vary by flight and time of day. Entertainment fans should use the airline's "what's on your flight" tool to build an ice playlist in advance; the collection of up to 167 Indian films plus regional TV and music is deep, which helps on long sectors. If you care most about onboard food and drink innovation across airlines, you might also like American Airlines brings Lavazza onboard.
Final thoughts
Emirates Diwali celebrations show how cultural moments can reshape the cabin and lounge experience for a week. If you are flying between Dubai and India, or connecting through select lounges, this is a timely chance to add a festive flavor to your trip, and to explore the expanded Indian catalog on ice. Book smart, pad your connection, and enjoy the Diwali details.