Author: Monica Bonalto

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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 glittering skyline has a new crown jewel. The much-anticipated Ciel Dubai Marina is now open, officially securing its title as the tallest hotel in the world and setting a new global benchmark for architectural innovation and luxury hospitality. As news and details emerge, finding a single, comprehensive source of information can be a challenge. This is your definitive insider’s guide. We go beyond the headlines to consolidate every essential detail, from its record-breaking statistics and visionary design to the unparalleled guest experiences that await inside. Whether you’re planning a future stay or are simply captivated by this new landmark,…

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The sound is unmistakable: the fiery strum of acoustic guitars, the soulful, raspy vocals, and rhythms that transport you to the sun-drenched streets of Andalusia. For decades, the Gipsy Kings have been the world’s ambassadors of rumba flamenca. But what happens when that raw, passionate energy is fused with the sweeping grandeur of a full orchestra? You get a once-in-a-lifetime musical event. Get ready for Gipsy Kings by André Reyes Symphonic, a breathtaking performance set against the magnificent backdrop of the Dubai Opera. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a reinvention of timeless classics and an unforgettable night of cultural…

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Get ready for an evening of relentless punchlines and razor-sharp wit, because one of comedy’s most celebrated and controversial minds is returning to the UAE. Jimmy Carr is bringing his brand-new stand-up show, ‘Laughs Funny,’ to the prestigious Dubai Opera. If you’ve been searching for a truly unforgettable night of entertainment, you know how frustrating it can be to piece together scattered event details, question the legitimacy of ticket sellers, and wonder if a show is truly worth your time. Consider this your definitive, all-in-one resource. We’ve cut through the noise to bring you the single, authoritative guide for everything…

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Get ready for an electrifying night of live music on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. The chart-topping, Grammy-winning sensation Clean Bandit is heading to Dubai for a one-night-only performance, and the atmosphere is set to be unforgettable. But with so much buzz, finding clear, reliable information can be a challenge. You’re looking for dates, ticket links you can trust, and insider tips to make the night perfect. Consider this your all-access pass. Forget scattered social media posts and vague event listings. This is the single, comprehensive guide you need for Clean Bandit live at Barasti Beach. We’ll cover the…

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Already wondering when the next long weekend is? If you’re in the UAE, you know that planning travel, family gatherings, and work projects revolves around the official public holiday calendar. But the excitement of a potential break often comes with a major challenge: uncertainty, especially when it comes to Islamic holidays like Eid Al Adha 2025. Sifting through conflicting dates and predictions can make it impossible to plan with confidence. That’s why we’ve created this definitive planner. This isn’t just another list of dates. It’s your single, authoritative source for navigating the 2025 UAE public holidays. Here, you’ll find the…

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The pulse of the global dance music scene is about to beat right in the heart of Dubai. Global superstar, fashion icon, and producer Peggy Gou is set to bring her unparalleled energy to the city for a can’t-miss performance. As part of the legendary Pacha Icons series, she will take over the breathtaking open-air stage at the all-new Five Luxe JBR. For fans of euphoric beats and those seeking the ultimate Dubai nightlife experience, this is the event you’ve been waiting for. This article is your all-in-one guide to securing your spot and planning the perfect night for one…

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Imagine floating 200 meters above the ground, suspended between a brilliant blue sky and the glittering architectural marvels of Dubai. This isn’t a dream; it’s the reality at Aura Skypool. But planning a visit to this iconic destination can feel overwhelming. With various ticket options, premium prices, and the pressure to capture that perfect photo, it’s easy to feel uncertain about how to get it right. Aura Skypool is one of those places that lives up to the hype the moment you step out of the elevator and see the edge drop away into nothing but sky and city. I…

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