Author: Monica Bonalto

Monica Bonalto's avatar

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.

Welcome to Global Village Dubai, where the world comes alive! As Dubai’s premier multicultural family destination, Global Village brings together the best of culture, entertainment, shopping, and dining from across the globe in one spectacular location. Planning a visit to such a vast and vibrant attraction can seem daunting, with questions about tickets, opening hours, and how to make the most of your time. This article serves as your definitive, official, and most up-to-date guide, crafted directly from Global Village’s operational insights to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience. Global Village always feels like a mini world tour without leaving…

Read More

As the year draws to a close, the search for the perfect New Year’s Eve celebration intensifies, especially in a city synonymous with luxury and spectacle: Dubai. For those seeking an unparalleled blend of vibrant energy, world-class entertainment, and exquisite ambiance, Nikki Beach Dubai stands out as the premier destination. This year, as Nikki Beach Dubai celebrates its monumental 10th season, it promises an even more extraordinary send-off to 2025 and welcome to 2026 with its exclusive ‘Shimmering Disco Dream’ event, headlined by the globally renowned DJ Gianluca Vacchi. Navigating the options for such a high-demand luxury event can often…

Read More

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 magnitude, the challenge often lies in piecing together all the critical details, from ticket releases to travel logistics, across various fragmented sources. This article cuts through the noise, serving as your ultimate, all-encompassing guide to ensure a seamlessly planned and unforgettable experience. We’ll navigate the…

Read More

As the cooler breezes sweep across the desert city, Dubai transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, a vibrant 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 hassle of sifting through countless websites? Look no further. This definitive, hyper-practical guide to Dubai’s best Christmas markets and winter festivals for 2025 is your essential companion. We’ve consolidated all the up-to-date, must-know details, addressing your pain points of finding accurate information and navigating choices.…

Read More

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 eateries, and buzzing events – is key. But there’s a new, monumental chapter unfolding: the groundbreaking Design Miami partnership. The Alserkal Avenue partnership with Design Miami feels like a natural fit when you think about how both places thrive on pushing boundaries. I walked through…

Read More

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 as a global nightlife hub, securing a spot at one of Carola’s Music On in Dubai exclusive appearances is more than just attending a party—it’s experiencing a moment. But in the fast-paced world of Dubai’s entertainment, reliable, insider information on major events can be elusive.…

Read More

Dubai, a city synonymous with unparalleled luxury and exhilarating nightlife, is once again gearing up to host a series of events that promise to redefine opulence and entertainment. As the end of 2025 approaches, all eyes turn to Verde Beach Dubai, the epicenter of beachfront chic, where two global music titans, Afrojack and Diplo, are set to unleash their Hedonïsm parties. These aren’t just concerts; they are curated experiences, blending world-class DJ sets with gourmet dining and the iconic Dubai skyline. Verde Beach Dubai: Unveiling the Ultimate Luxury Beach Club Experience When it comes to luxury beach clubs in Dubai,…

Read More

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 announcements and endless social media posts. This guide cuts through the noise. Consider this your single, comprehensive insider’s pass to everything you need to know about celebrating NYE with Alicia Keys at Saadiyat Nights—from securing the best tickets and understanding the full concert series lineup…

Read More

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 built around sound, space and the kind of energy the city saves for its most memorable moments. This event sits at the intersection of artistry and environment, creating a rare opportunity to see a Grammy-winning producer at his creative peak. From the moment the announcement…

Read More