UAE Schools Celebrate Diwali: in Pictures
While many UAE Indian curriculum schools closed to allow families to celebrate Diwali at home, international schools and nurseries across the emirates embraced the celebrations as part of their school day. Students of all nationalities and cultures shared in the festivities with traditional dance, music, decoration and Indian traditional dress.
GEMS International School embraced the vibrant colours of Diwali with spectacular decorations at the school entrance today. Students experienced a memorable start to the day, with traditional drummers and dancers welcoming them through the gates. Students and staff dressed in brightly coloured clothing to mark the special occasion, including saris and kurtas. A special presentation created by Grade 10 student, Manya Singh, telling the history of ‘Deepa Avali’, has been on display in the school’s lobby today also.
At Horizon English School, families were treated to spectacular Diwali performances at the school gates upon arrival, with dancers and dhol drummers setting the mood for a day of cultural fun and celebration.
Bloom World Academy, one of Dubai's newest IB schools, embraced Diwali celebrations as an opportunity to provide cultural understanding and encourage open-mindedness in its international student community. Students will be encouraged to celebrate and appreciate various cultures and personal histories this week.
At Redwood Montessori Nursery Garhoud, children enjoyed a hands-on experience of Diwali, creating their own rangoli art and dressing in vibrant colours and traditional Indian dress. Nursery Director, Amreeta Kaur Goulder, said:
"Celebrating cultural festivals from all over the world helps spread the message about celebrating humanity together! We are all different, and that difference… that unique aspect must be celebrated! Dubai, being so culturally diverse, gives the children the opportunity to learn about festivities from across the globe, helping us embrace the Montessori principles of inclusion and peace, enabling children to be citizens of the world."
Children and staff in the Jumeirah International Nurseries group enjoyed an immersive cultural experience of colourful art and Bollywood dancing, to celebrate the Hindu festival of light. In what is now becoming a JINS signature move, the group shared a celebratory choreographed dance routine from the leadership team, prompting great praise and encouragement from families.
