Diwali Dining by the Water at Sontaya

There is something particularly enchanting about celebrating Diwali where water meets sky. At Sontaya, the refined restaurant within The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, the upcoming festival will be marked by an evening of culinary storytelling set within the restaurant’s distinctive overwater pavilions, those graceful structures that seem to float between sea and horizon.

The experience has been conceived by Executive Sous Chef Jatin Mehra, whose approach to the kitchen honours tradition whilst embracing refinement. The menu traces a festive journey through vibrant flavours: signature kebabs arrive with their characterful smokiness, aromatic curries unfold layer upon layer of spice and warmth, and indulgent sweet treats provide the gentle conclusion that Diwali deserves.

An Evening of Celebration

Gathering with loved ones around a table has always been at the heart of Diwali, and this evening captures that spirit whilst elevating it through the care taken in each dish and the grace of the setting itself. The overwater pavilions create an atmosphere of intimacy and wonder, where the gentle movement of water beneath and the soft glow of evening light above frame the meal with quiet beauty.

Chef Mehra’s menu speaks to the festival’s traditions whilst expressing them through the lens of contemporary culinary craft. Each course reflects an understanding of how food becomes memory, how flavours can carry meaning, and how a meal shared becomes a moment held.

Making Your Reservation

The Diwali celebration takes place on 6 November, 2026, from 6:00 PM to midnight. Those wishing to join this festive gathering may reserve a table by telephoning +971 2 498 8443 or by sending an enquiry to restaurant.saadiyat@stregis.com.

Sontaya’s position on Saadiyat Island, with its particular grace and its commitment to thoughtful hospitality, makes it a natural home for celebrations that matter. This Diwali, it becomes a place where tradition, excellence and togetherness converge.

Imagery courtesy of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi.

On Simply Luxury: St. Regis