Diwali Gift Guide 2023: 20 Thoughtful Gifts To Celebrate the Festival of Lights

A day of celebrating the victory of goodness over evil, Diwali carries a message of hope and positivity. The Indian festival is celebrated across the globe with lots of light, family gatherings, and incredible food — with Dubai also joining in the festivities each year.

Thankfully, the trend surrounding Diwali celebrations is continuing to shift from noisy firecracker-fueled nights to more mindfully planned, environment-friendly get-togethers aglow with oil lamps, floating candles, and aromatic blooms. Crackers don’t just abuse the environment and the ozone layer, they also contribute to animal trauma and noise pollution. So if you, like so many others, will be marking the special day by spending quality time with loved ones, why not do so with some thoughtfully picked out presents?

Below, we take you through Vogue Arabia’s guide of the best Diwali gifts for every kind of friend, sibling, parent and partner.

For the jewelry lover

Navratna polki set with a dash of pearl, Mahesh Notandass Fine Jewellery

A little sparkle goes a long way, and Diwali — the first of many special occasions during the festive season — is the perfect time to add something to a loved one’s jewelry box. For the traditionalist, look to a multicolored neckpiece from Mahesh Notandass Fine Jewellery, and for the sister, best friend or partner who loves contemporary jewelry, go for shimmering ear studs from Vandals. Closer to home, Bil Arabi’s vibrant statement rings are ideal for the occasion.

For the fashion enthusiast

Pichhwai bucket bag, Anita Dongre. AED 2,190

Diwali calls for traditional festive wear, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room to play around with one’s look. Add to your favorite person’s wardrobe this season with some of the most interesting accessories of the moment. While Giorgio Armani’s Diwali-inspired sunglasses come with “Celebrating India” engraved at the temples, Versace’s Greca Flourish watch features a deep green and gold dial, evoking the idea of awakening from darkness and stepping into the light. For the party-goer who refuses to give up on comfort on busy Diwali nights, Fizzy Goblet’s sequin-clad slip-on flats make a very welcome gift — pair with Anita Dongre’s rich red Pichhwai bag and you’re all set.

For the beauty junkie

Corrale straightener in Ceramic Pop, Dyson. AED 1,999

This Diwali, why not let self-care take the front seat? Treat your special someone to a range of curated Ayurveda-inspired skin superheroes via Mudra, or gift them with a fragrance that will immediately take them to India — Radio Bombay by DS & Durga is a winner. For the serial event attendee, go with Dyson’s brand new, limited-edition Ceramic Pop range of devices. There’s no way that punchy mix of tangerine, sea blue and powder pink won’t brighten up even the dullest of days. But perhaps the most fun pick is Lush’s vibrant diya-shaped bath bomb — infused with jasmine absolute, ylang ylang oil and vanilla, this one’s a must for the morning after Diwali dinner.

For the avid traveler

Gift card luggage tag, Aman Hotels

The end of the year often comes with travel plans, so this Diwali, consider adding a worldly spin to your gifts. For the person who’s always looking to their next adventure, there’s no going wrong with a gift card from Aman. Enclosed in an earthy leather tag that echoes the “quiet luxury” aesthetic of Aman properties, the value of each card can be redeemed at any Aman destination in the world for accommodation, dining experiences, spa therapies, and more. What’s not to love?