Author: Monica Bonalto

Monica Bonalto's avatar

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.

(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…

Read More

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…

Read More

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…

Read More

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…

Read More

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…

Read More

Dubai is set to host a spectacular lineup of concerts and gigs in 2024, cementing its status as a global hub for music and entertainment. From international superstars to local talents, the city’s diverse music scene offers something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the most anticipated concerts and gigs happening in Dubai in 2024. This ensures you don’t miss out on any of the action. International Superstars Dubai’s music scene is renowned for attracting some of the biggest names in the industry. One of the most anticipated events of 2024 is the concert by global superstar Ed Sheeran.…

Read More

Moving to UAE first time transforms your life completely. This comprehensive guide addresses every concern, challenge, and opportunity awaiting new UAE residents. From visa requirements to cultural nuances, we explore the practical realities of relocating to this extraordinary nation. The United Arab Emirates attracts millions seeking career advancement, lifestyle enhancement, or educational opportunities. Yet moving to UAE first time requires careful preparation and cultural understanding. This guide provides insider knowledge gained from countless expatriate experiences across all seven emirates. The Seven Emirates Unveiled Each emirate offers distinct characteristics that shape your UAE experience. Abu Dhabi commands respect as the capital,…

Read More

Get ready for an evening of mesmerizing music and captivating performances. Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena will host a spectacular concert on June 21, 2024. It features two of the Arab world’s most beloved music icons, Hussain Al Jassmi & Sherine Abdel Wahab live. This event promises to be a highlight in the cultural calendar of the UAE. It offers an unforgettable experience for fans of Middle Eastern music. Fans interested in witnessing Hussain Al Jassmi & Sherine Abdel Wahab perform live will find it especially exciting. Hussain Al Jassmi, affectionately known as “Al Jabal” (The Mountain), is a celebrated Emirati singer.…

Read More

The excitement is palpable as O Beach, the iconic Ibiza day club known for its vibrant pool parties and distinctive orange cups, announces its expansion. O Beach is coming to Dubai. Set to open later this year, the new venue will be located in the heart of Dubai Marina. It promises to bring a slice of Ibiza’s famed party scene to the UAE’s shores. Everyone’s talking about it. Spanning over 55,000 square feet, O Beach Dubai will offer both indoor and outdoor spaces. These spaces are designed to emulate the luxurious, festive atmosphere its Ibiza counterpart is celebrated for. News…

Read More