From an elephant parade exhibition to a Bollywood-themed laser show and fireworks, Dubai is gearing up to host its biggest ever Diwali celebrations, the Indian festival of lights.

Officials from the Dubai government and Indian missions said on Wednesday that the city will see concerts and special gold and jewellery promotions.

Visitors can explore 50 life-sized elephant sculptures from famous artists and celebrities at the Dubai Festival City Mall. The parade exhibition will raise awareness of elephant conversation globally.

An ‘Imagine’ show called ‘Hathi’s Garden’ at the mall will feature a Bollywood theme, huge scale projections, lasers and fireworks. The celebrations will kickstart on October 24 at a number of venues across Dubai, including the Global Village – which opens on October 29 – major shopping malls and retail destinations. Officials said the festival will be celebrated in the “true spirit of the Year of Tolerance”.

Consul-General of India to Dubai Vipul said: “Cultural programmes, fireworks shows, lighting arrangements and food festivals will bring the city alive to the festive fervour of Diwali.

“We are always thankful to the leadership of the UAE for being able to celebrate Diwali in a grand manner in Dubai and other cities. This is the best tradition of the relations between our countries.”

Mohammed Feras Aryaqat, director, retail registrations, retail and strategic alliances at the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said Diwali is one of the most important events in the DFRE’s calendar. “Diwali symbolises the city’s cosmopolitan and multicultural environment. The promotions have been designed to enhance Dubai’s reputation as a leading tourism destination.”

Fireworks to light up the night

– Dubai Festival City

October 18 and October 24

7.45pm and 8pm

– Al Seef

October 27, 8.30 pm

– Pointe, Palm Jumeirah

October 26, 9 pm

Events to add a sparkle

– Diwali Mela

Al Seef: October 24-28
A one-of-a-kind Diwali fair offering an array of activities including a festive market, stage performances and kids’ workshops

– Global Village: October 29 onwards

The Indian Pavilion will offer more than 240 stalls

– Flash mob

Pointe, Palm Jumeirah: From October 18-27
A surprise box dance show with dancers and a flash mob

– Hathi’s Garden

Dubai Festival City Mall: October 24
A Bollywood-themed show with lasers and huge scale projections

– The elephant parade

Dubai Festival City Mall: 0ctober 24
The world-famous Elephant Parade exhibition with 50 life-size elephant sculptures