As Hindus all over the world celebrate Diwali - the festival of lights - wishes and greetings have poured in from most global leaders, including a special royal message from the UAE.

His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler, took to Twitter on Friday morning to wish a Happy Diwali to all those celebrating in the UAE and all over the world:

The UAE is home to millions of expatriates from various backgrounds and religions, with Indians comprising a large part of the population.

UAE's leaders have always strived to promote interfaith harmony, not only in the country but across the region and the world.

Diwali - celebrated on October 19 - is a Hindi contraction of the Sanskrit Deepavali, which literally translates to 'row of lamps'. In southern parts of India, like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, it's still called Deepavali and celebrated with as much fervour as it is in northern and central parts of the country. It is regarded as the most famous festival in India and marks the Hindu New Year.

Source: Khaleej Times