India’s historic victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 sparked celebrations far beyond the country’s borders, with Indians in Dubai taking to the streets to rejoice after the Men in Blue defeated New Zealand by 96 runs in the final.

The match, held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on March 8, saw India secure their third T20 World Cup title, becoming the first team in history to win the tournament three times.

Celebrations across Dubai

Videos widely shared on social media captured joyful scenes of Indians living in Dubai celebrating the victory.

In one clip, groups of fans were seen dancing on the streets while throwing confetti and waving Indian flags to mark the moment. Another video showed a couple celebrating enthusiastically when Tilak Varma completed the decisive catch during the match.

The overlay text in the video read: “Thank you Team India for giving us something to cheer for and celebrate.”

The celebrations highlighted the strong emotional connection Indian expatriates share with the national team, even while living abroad.

Historic moment for Indian cricket

India’s triumph marked several historic milestones for the team.

With the victory, India became:

  • The first team to win the T20 World Cup three times (2007, 2024, 2026)
  • The first team to successfully defend the title
  • The first host nation to win the T20 World Cup on home soil

In the final, India posted a massive 255/5, the highest total ever recorded in a T20 World Cup final.

The bowlers then dominated the match, dismissing New Zealand for 159 in 19 overs to seal the emphatic win.

Celebrations amid regional tensions

The jubilant scenes in Dubai came despite a tense atmosphere in parts of the Middle East due to the ongoing US–Israel–Iran tensions.

Earlier reports indicated that operations at Dubai International Airport were briefly disrupted after an aerial drone was intercepted near the airport.

Videos circulating online also showed smoke rising near the runway area, while unconfirmed reports claimed that a drone strike caused a fire at 23 Marina Tower in Dubai Marina.

Despite the tense regional situation, the cricket victory offered a rare moment of joy for the Indian diaspora in the city.

For many expatriates, the celebrations reflected not just sporting pride but also a sense of connection to home during uncertain times.