The Spinneys supermarket chain is more than a retail brand in the UAE — it is a household name woven into the daily lives of residents. For over a century, Spinneys has evolved from a single store in Alexandria into one of the Middle East’s most iconic retailers. With a reputation for quality, innovation, and community engagement, Spinneys has become synonymous with premium groceries, fresh produce, and a superior shopping experience. This is the story of how Spinneys grew from humble beginnings to become a leader in the UAE’s retail landscape. Origins of Spinneys Spinneys was founded in 1924 by…
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.
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The Best DJ Myth persists because taste, context, and culture shape what feels “best.” From radio’s pioneers to today’s festivals, DJing keeps evolving, and so do arguments about who the greatest is. Music history, technology, personal preference, and global culture all prove there is no such thing as a single “best DJ.” The Evolution of DJing DJing began in the early 20th century with radio presenters who played recorded music for mass audiences. These broadcasters were tastemakers, but even then debates about the Best DJ Myth began. Who had the best selections? Who connected with the crowd most? The arguments…
The United Arab Emirates transforms after sunset into a dazzling playground of lights, music, and endless possibilities. Finding the 20 best nightclubs in the UAE requires navigating a landscape that seamlessly blends Arabian mystique with international glamour. From Dubai’s sky-high venues overlooking glittering cityscapes to Abu Dhabi’s waterfront sanctuaries, this definitive guide unveils the Emirates’ most electrifying nightlife destinations. Dubai leads this nocturnal revolution with venues that defy conventional clubbing concepts. Rooftop spaces suspend dancers above the desert skyline. Underground chambers pulse with electronic beats that echo through marble corridors. Abu Dhabi contributes its own sophisticated interpretation of nightlife culture,…
Nobu: the man who made us love sushi represents one of culinary history’s most remarkable transformation stories. Nobu Matsuhisa’s revolutionary approach to Japanese cuisine fundamentally altered how the world perceives and consumes sushi. This legendary chef transcended cultural boundaries by merging traditional Japanese precision with bold Peruvian influences, creating a fusion philosophy that redefined global fine dining standards. From humble beginnings in post-war Japan to commanding a worldwide empire of luxury restaurants, Nobu’s journey embodies the American dream reimagined through Japanese discipline and Peruvian creativity. His innovative techniques introduced millions to sophisticated sushi experiences previously confined to exclusive Tokyo establishments.…
Fujairah, one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and modern attractions. Known for its stunning coastline along the Gulf of Oman and its mountainous landscapes, Fujairah is a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Here are 10 things to do in Fujairah this year for an unforgettable experience. 1. Explore Al Bidya Mosque Al Bidya Mosque, the oldest mosque in the UAE, dates back to the 15th century. This historical site, located in the village of Al Bidya, features unique architecture with four domes and…
(Stay tuned for the next one) Since many of you didn’t get to win the last time around, we thought we’d give you one more chance to win one of these exclusive Cabanas at the world-famous W Hotel located on Palm Jumeirah. We are offering you and up to 10 friends the chance to win a luxurious cabana at SOLAIRÈ this Sunday for the last event before the Summer takes over. Enjoy an afternoon/evening of sun, sea, and the best sunset in one of Dubai’s most exclusive settings. The music comes to you from multi-award-winning DJ, Smokingroove, and Jay and…
I’ve lived in the UAE long enough to know that its skyline and desert get all the headlines — but if you follow the coastline, you discover an entirely different side to the Emirates. Our shores are as diverse as our cities: stretches of golden sand in Dubai, wild mountain-backed bays in Fujairah, and eco-protected havens in Abu Dhabi. For residents, beaches here aren’t just leisure spots; they’re part of our lifestyle. Post-work dips, weekend barbecues, early-morning jogs, and spur-of-the-moment kayaking sessions — these sands have been woven into our everyday rhythm. For visitors, they’re a chance to see a…
Few transformations rival the extraordinary story of Dubai Then and Now. This emirate morphed from a modest pearling village into a gleaming global metropolis within mere decades. The journey spans desert winds and towering cranes, dhow sails and jet engines, pearl divers and tech entrepreneurs. Walking through modern Dubai feels surreal when you consider its humble origins. Fifty years ago, camels wandered where skyscrapers now pierce clouds. Traditional wind towers cooled homes where air-conditioned towers now house millions. The contrast captures something profound about human ambition and vision. The Pearl Diving Era: Life Before Skyscrapers Dubai’s story begins with pearl…
Dubai transforms each morning into a culinary adventure that mirrors the city’s extraordinary diversity. The best breakfast in Dubai spans from humble street-side eateries in Old Dubai to sky-high dining rooms overlooking the Arabian Gulf. This comprehensive exploration reveals 65 exceptional venues that define morning dining excellence across the Emirates’ most dynamic metropolis. The breakfast landscape pulses with energy to match Dubai’s relentless ambition. Local Emiratis queue alongside international executives, food bloggers, and weekend wanderers. Each venue tells a story about the city’s remarkable ability to blend tradition with innovation. The Cultural Melting Pot of Morning Dining Dubai’s breakfast culture…
The New Restaurants & Bars in 2025 are shaping Dubai into an even more global food and nightlife capital. Already renowned for pushing boundaries, Dubai’s hospitality scene thrives on constant reinvention. The year 2025 is no different. The city is set to welcome Michelin-starred chefs, daring new bar concepts, and unique venues that embody both Dubai’s appetite for luxury and its taste for the avant-garde. As someone who has walked through DIFC on a Thursday evening, the energy is palpable — and these new openings will only amplify that buzz. Culinary Icons Arrive Jara by Martín Berasategui Martín Berasategui, the…