Monica Bonalto arrived in Dubai in 2017 with a background in hospitality journalism and quickly became one of the most trusted voices in the UAE's dining and nightlife space. Over seven years on the ground, she has reviewed more than 400 venues across all seven emirates — from the sun-baked beach clubs of JBR and the rooftop terraces of DIFC, to the understated local gems that rarely make it onto tourist lists. Before joining What's Hot in UAE as Nightlife & Dining Editor, Monica contributed to Time Out Dubai, Abu Dhabi Food Festival coverage, and several regional hospitality publications. She has attended every major restaurant opening in Dubai since 2019 and maintains direct relationships with PRs and venue operators across the city — which means the information you read in her guides is always verified, never recycled from a press release. Her specialities are happy hours (she has personally verified every deal on our lists), Friday brunches, and the Northern Emirates' emerging food scene. She is based in DIFC and eats out five times a week. When she says a place is worth your money, it is. Follow Monica's work on Muck Rack , Substack , Vocal , and Medium .
Dubai’s vibrant nightlife is perpetually gearing up for its next monumental event, but nothing quite on the scale of what’s on the horizon. The desert sands are set to transform into an unparalleled auditory and visual spectacle as Keinemusik prepares for its historic full trio debut at Pacha ICONS Dubai. For an event of this…
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As the cooler breezes sweep across the desert city, Dubai transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, a lively tapestry woven with festive lights, joyous carols, and the enchanting aroma of gingerbread. But with so many spectacular events vying for your attention, how do you find the best experiences and plan your holiday outings without the…
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Dubai, a city synonymous with ambition and audacious innovation, is rapidly evolving beyond its iconic skyline to become a global cultural powerhouse. At the pulsating heart of this transformation lies Alserkal Avenue, an industrial quarter reimagined as a vibrant cultural district. For residents and visitors alike, understanding Alserkal’s dynamic present – its sprawling galleries, experimental…
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The desert city is pulsating, the anticipation is palpable, and a titan of techno is making his grand return. For aficionados of deep, hypnotic grooves, the name Marco Carola isn’t just a DJ, it’s a phenomenon. His “Music On” events are legendary, crafting immersive sonic journeys that captivate dancefloors worldwide. As Dubai solidifies its status…
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Verde Beach Dubai made its name with big bookings. Afrojack and Diplo have both played sets there as part of the club’s Hedonism party series [VERIFY: exact dates and frequency of the Afrojack/Diplo Hedonism events], and for a while that was the whole pitch: a beach club you visited because of who was on the…
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Get ready for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve as global music icon Alicia Keys returns to Abu Dhabi for a spectacular headline performance at Saadiyat Nights. As the clock ticks down to 2026, the capital is buzzing with plans, but finding clear, consolidated information about the biggest events can be a frustrating search through scattered…
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Planning the full F1 weekend? Our Abu Dhabi guide covers nightlife, after-parties, restaurants and accommodation across Yas Island and the city.
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Cassian at Terra Solis is shaping up to be one of December’s standout events in Dubai. The combination of Tomorrowland’s signature atmosphere and the desert’s natural openness feels like the perfect stage for a producer who thrives on emotional depth and melodic precision. On 6 December, the Amare Stage becomes the backdrop for a night…
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The queen of contemporary techno is returning to conquer Dubai. Amelie Lens has officially announced her monumental comeback, and the city’s electronic music scene is already buzzing with anticipation. But with a major event like this, scattered information, unconfirmed details, and endless social media noise can make it hard to get the facts straight. Are…
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Dubai’s glittering entertainment scene is set to welcome a global music icon this December. As the city buzzes with energy, seven-time GRAMMY® winner and creative force will.i.am is preparing to take the stage for an exclusive, one-night-only performance. But finding clear, consolidated information—from accurate showtimes to reliable ticket links and details about the stunning venue—can…
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Dubai’s nightlife is legendary, a dazzling landscape of rooftop lounges, superclubs, and world-class DJs. But for the discerning music lover, the search is always on for something more—an experience that transcends the ordinary, a night that resonates long after the last beat fades. What if you could witness the raw, emotional power of a symphony…
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As the clock ticks down to a new year, the search for the perfect, most exclusive New Year’s Eve party in Dubai begins. In a city brimming with spectacular options, the challenge isn’t finding a party—it’s finding the party. A truly unique, A-list experience that transcends the ordinary and defines the start of a new…
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