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.

Get ready, Dubai! The stage is set for a groundbreaking event that promises to redefine the city’s vibrant entertainment landscape. Jason Momoa, globally recognized for his iconic roles in Aquaman and Game of Thrones, is venturing beyond the silver screen to make his highly anticipated musical debut in Dubai. Headlining the inaugural Meili Society Nights, Momoa will front his band, Öof Tatata, for an exclusive performance. This is your ultimate insider’s guide to this unparalleled cultural moment. We’ll dive into every essential detail, from event logistics and ticket information to a deep exploration of Momoa’s evolving artistic journey, the unique…

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Key Facts Headliner: Marco CarolaVenue: Pacha, Dubai, DubaiDate: 13 February 2026 — this event has already taken place Dubai, prepare for an unparalleled night of pulsating beats and electrifying energy as the global phenomenon arrives at the city’s newest luxury hotspot, Pacha Icons Dubai. Led by the undisputed maestro of tech-house, Marco Carola and Music On Dubai, this event promises to redefine the UAE’s vibrant nightlife scene. If you’re a devoted techno enthusiast, a curious newcomer, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience in Dubai, this is your definitive guide. Marco Carola coming to Dubai with Music On always carries this…

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Dubai’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are legendary, drawing millions with their spectacular fireworks, vibrant events, and unmatched energy. However, navigating the city’s bustling streets and crowded public transport on 31 December can often feel like a challenge, threatening to overshadow the festive spirit. The excitement of celebrating against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa is undeniable, but the thought of traffic gridlock and transport woes can dampen spirits. Related: explore our full Downtown Dubai area guide for the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Fountain, and the best restaurants and rooftop bars. Fear not! This definitive guide, carefully compiled from official…

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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…

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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…

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A group of people at a music event with one person in a white shirt and red cap using headphones at a DJ booth, surrounded by a crowd holding smartphones. Above them is a large, abstract cloud-like decoration.

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…

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As the cooler breezes sweep across the desert city, Dubai transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland, a lively 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 2026 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.…

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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…

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