From dawn flag hoisting and vibrant cultural programmes to a festival of flavours at Abu Dhabi’s top Indian restaurants, here’s your guide to celebrating India’s Independence Day on August 15
Abu Dhabi will come alive today, August 15 with the colours, flavours, and pride of India. From official flag hoisting and cultural programmes to festivals and authentic Indian food, the city offers a variety of ways to experience the day. Independence Day is a chance to honour history, celebrate culture, and enjoy community.
India’s journey to independence is a story of courage, sacrifice, and big dreams. On August 15, 1947, the country broke free from centuries of colonial rule, and every year since, Independence Day is a chance to celebrate that spirit. Mahatma Gandhi put it simply: “The future depends on what you do today,” and “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
Jawaharlal Nehru captured the magic of that moment: “At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.” This day is for Indians and friends of India alike, a perfect excuse to enjoy cultural performances, delicious food, and a little Indian pride right here in Abu Dhabi.
Start the day with the raising of the tricolour at two landmark venues in Abu Dhabi, where the community gathers for a proud and patriotic morning.
Indian Embassy Flag Hoisting Ceremony
Location: Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi
Time: 7:15 AM
Cost: Free
India Social & Cultural Centre (ISC)
Location: ISC, Abu Dhabi
Flag Hoisting: 6:30 AM
Cultural Program: 8:00 PM
Cost: Free
Contact: +971 2 673 0066
Kerala Social Centre (KSC)
A lively hub for cultural and social events, ideal for experiencing traditional performances and community celebrations.
Location: Al Danah – Zone 1, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Free
Contact: +971 2 631 4455
LuLu Hypermarket’s ‘India Utsav’
A 10-day festival celebrating Indian culture, cuisine, and heritage, with live performances and special promotions.
Location: Various LuLu Hypermarkets, Abu Dhabi
Dates: Until August 22
Cost: Free entry
From fine dining to flavour-packed street food, these Indian restaurants in Abu Dhabi serve up the perfect feast for Independence Day.
Celebrate Independence Day with a Complimentary Ghewar at Pincode
To kick start the celebration, premium-dining modern Indian restaurant Pincode by celebrity chef Kunal Kapur is serving nostalgia on a plate, topped with something sweet on the house. Known for its soulful regional dishes with a contemporary twist, Pincode at The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, will treat all guests dining in on August 15 to a complimentary Ghewar. This Rajasthan delicacy is a crisp, honeycombed festive dessert, soaked in saffron syrup and finished with silver leaf and nuts. It’s more than just dessert, it’s a bite of heritage and a nod to India’s journey to freedom.
Location: The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Date: Thursday, August 15
Cost: Complimentary Ghewar for all dine-in guests
Contact: +971 2 234 0111
Punjab Grill
Experience royal North Indian cuisine with a contemporary twist at this Michelin-selected spot.
Location: Venetian Village, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal
Times: 12:30 pm to 12:00 am
Cost: From Dhs185
Contact: +971 50 668 3054
Moksh
Progressive Indian cooking in a plush, lounge setting, listed in the MICHELIN Guide.
Location: Etihad Towers
Times: 12:00 pm to 11:30 pm
Cost: Dhs 185 and over
Contact: +971 50 447 4805
Namak
Innovative plates that marry tradition with modern flair; a smart-casual crowd-pleaser.
Innovative plates that marry tradition with modern flair; a smart-casual crowd-pleaser.
Location: Dusit Thani Hotel, Sultan Bin Zayed The First Street
Times: Mon to Sat 12:30 pm to 11:30 pm; Sun 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Cost: À la carte
Contact: +971 2 698 8137
Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi
Refined Indian fine dining by Chef Hemant Oberoi in a grand, intimate room.
Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Times: 12:30 pm to 10:30 pm
Cost: Dhs 185 and over
Contact: +971 2 690 7999
Rasoi Ghar
Vegetarian thalis and regional specials in a bright, family-friendly space.
Vegetarian thalis and regional specials in a bright, family-friendly space.
Location: Lower Ground Floor, The Fountains, Yas Mall, Yas Island
Times: Sun–Thu 10:00 am–10:00 pm; Fri–Sat 10:00 am–12:00 am
Cost: À la carte
Contact: +971 2 550 0567
Asha’s
Classic North-West Indian favourites from the brand created by singer Asha Bhosle.
Location: Level 1, Town Square, Yas Mall, Yas Island
Times: Sun to Thu 10:00 am to 10:00 pm; Fri to Sat 10:00 am to 12:00 am
Cost: À la carte
Contact: +971 2 492 6680
Images: Supplied
