Beyond the UAE’s renowned landmarks and luxury attractions lies a vibrant tapestry of hidden gems offering unique entertainment experiences. For those eager to venture off the beaten path, the following venues provide immersive adventures that delve deep into the nation’s innovative spirit and ultimately, the UAE’s best kept secrets. 1. VRcade Dubai Situated in Downtown Dubai, VRcade stands as the Middle East’s largest virtual reality gaming center. Spanning five themed floors, it boasts over 100 VR stations, each offering a distinct experience—from reimagined classic arcade games to hyper-realistic simulators. Whether you’re piloting a spacecraft or navigating a 360-degree Pac-Man maze,…
Author: Monica Bonalto
Monica Bonalto
Monica Bonalto is our go-to voice for nightlife, dining, and everything fabulous after dark. Born in Monaco and now based in the UAE, she brings European flair and insider access to the city’s most talked-about events. With a background as a features writer for major magazines across Europe, Monica has a knack for spotting the scene before it trends — from Broadway-calibre shows to secret supper clubs.
Read More
From house beats rolling over the surf to hip-hop shaking stadiums, the United Arab Emirates has transformed into a world-class music festival hub. Over the last decade, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have leveraged cutting-edge infrastructure, government-backed cultural initiatives, and a community representing over 200 nationalities to create a festival season that rivals Europe’s summer circuit. The UAE’s rise is no accident—this is a nation that has turned its deserts and futuristic skylines into a global cultural stage. Here’s a comprehensive, data-driven guide to why the UAE is dominating the music festival scene, with insider planning tips and event-by-event detail. Why…
The UAE’s renowned desert retreat, Terra Solis, is set to deliver a New Year’s Eve celebration like no other. Known for hosting spectacular events featuring A-list performers, Terra Solis is pulling out all the stops to welcome 2025 in grand style. This year, Lost Frequencies and Agents of Time will take centre stage. They will bring electrifying energy to the Arabian dunes for an unforgettable evening. Lost Frequencies & Agents of Time at Terra Solis is surely the main event of the big night in Dubai. The legendary Lost Frequencies & Agents of Time at Terra Solis NYE Lost Frequencies:…
Get ready to ring in the New Year in style at Atlantis, The Palm, with none other than global music legend Lionel Richie. On 31 December, the luxury resort is hosting an unforgettable evening of music, glamour, and celebration. This event promises to be the highlight of Dubai’s New Year’s Eve scene. Lionel Richie Live at Atlantis is probably the one event of NYE you should not miss. Lionel Richie Takes the Stage Known for his timeless hits and electrifying performances, Lionel Richie will headline the grand celebration. He will captivate the crowd with classics like Hello, All Night Long,…
After a stunning opening in October 2024, Ushuaïa Dubai, the open-air super club inspired by its legendary Ibiza counterpart, has already made waves in the nightlife scene. With over 15,000 fans turning up for its opening weekend featuring Calvin Harris, the venue continues to host world-class acts. For instance, Swiss electronic duo Adriatique performed there. However, in response to guest feedback, Ushuaïa Dubai introduces key changes to elevate the guest experience further. This showcases its commitment to excellence. Ushuaïa Dubai Introduces Key Changes to enhance the guest experience. Simplifying Payments for a Seamless Experience Initially, Ushuaïa Dubai launched with a…
As the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix draws closer, the spotlight isn’t just on the track—it’s also on the electrifying nightlife. This nightlife makes the race weekend unforgettable. This year, the W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island is turning up the heat with an exclusive rooftop party hosted by Bagatelle. The event features superstar DJs CamelPhat and Fisher, ensuring an unmissable musical experience. Bagatelle, known for its high-energy soirées and vibrant vibe, is bringing its signature flair to Yas Island. This weekend promises to be as thrilling as the Grand Prix itself, with CamelPhat & Fisher amplifying the excitement. The event…
Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates is poised to become a new centre for the performing arts. This follows the announcement of New Covent Garden, a comprehensive arts venue. It is designed to bring world-class entertainment to the UAE. This state-of-the-art facility will feature a 575-seat theatre and a stylish restaurant. There will also be ten purpose-built dance and rehearsal studios. It aims to host a variety of performances, from West End musicals and Arabic plays to ballet, comedy, opera, family shows, and live concerts. All of this will be under one roof. The Perfect Change New Covent Garden represents a…
Dubai’s music scene is in for a treat as Ministry of Sound Classical Live takes over. It brings iconic dance hits to life with a full orchestra on Saturday, 9 November. Known worldwide as one of the most legendary clubs, Ministry of Sound’s influence has spanned decades. It has defined the 90s house music scene and built an empire that continues to dominate dance music. This performance offers a unique fusion of classical and electronic music. It features the best dance tracks from the 90s re-orchestrated, re-imagined, and performed by an orchestra. The orchestra is led by conductor David Mahoney.…
Get ready for an extraordinary celebration of anime as Animenia Abu Dhabi arrives from October 23-27, 2024, at Manarat Al Saadiyat. This highly anticipated event promises to be a reimagined anime festival that goes beyond the ordinary anime expo, offering fans a blend of cosplay, immersive experiences, Japanese culture, and community-driven activities. It’s an event where anime enthusiasts of all ages can come together to explore the limitless world of anime. Whether you’re a lifelong anime fan, a cosplay enthusiast, or someone new to the world of Japanese animation, Animenia Abu Dhabi has something for everyone. Let’s dive into what…
Abu Dhabi, brace yourself for a night of comedy gold! The legendary Ben Elton, often regarded as the godfather of modern stand-up, is bringing his brand-new show, Authentic Stupidity, to the Etihad Arena on 7th December. Thanks to GME Events, this highly anticipated performance marks Elton’s first-ever show in Abu Dhabi. It’s set to be one of the most talked-about comedy events of the year. Ben Elton’s Triumphant Return to Stand-Up Ben Elton has long been a force to reckon with in the world of comedy. His impressive career spans decades. After a 15-year hiatus from stand-up, he made a…