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.

What To Know The desert is calling, and on October 4, 2025, it will answer with hypnotic rhythm. Boris Brejcha takes over the Tomorrowland Amare Stage at Terra Solis Dubai, bringing his futuristic “high-tech minimal” sound to the heart of the UAE. For one night only, the vast desert sky becomes the ceiling of a nightclub, with thousands of music lovers united in energy and movement. The Sound of Boris Brejcha Known for inventing the “high-tech minimal” genre, Brejcha has redefined what electronic music can feel like. His style merges the driving pulse of techno with the sophistication of minimal…

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On 16 November 2025, Bassem Youssef live Dubai takes centre stage at Coca-Cola Arena. The Egyptian-American comedy legend brings his razor-sharp wit to the emirate’s entertainment capital. This isn’t just another comedy show—it’s a cultural moment years in the making. Event Essentials From Operating Theatre to Centre Stage Few comedians can claim they once held human hearts in their hands. Bassem Youssef traded his surgeon’s scalpel for a microphone in 2011. The career shift seemed mad at the time. Today, it looks like genius. His medical background shapes his comedy in unexpected ways. Precision matters in both surgery and satire.…

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The desert is about to come alive. On 27 September, Dubai will feel the heartbeat of Tomorrowland as Arodes takes over the Amare Stage at Terra Solis. Picture this: warm desert air, stars scattered across the sky, and a soundscape so emotional it feels like time is standing still. This isn’t just another night out—it’s a moment, a memory waiting to be made. The Story of Arodes If you haven’t already been swept up by the wave of his music, here’s the magic of Arodes. Born in Spain, he’s one of those rare artists who doesn’t just play music—he tells…

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The Timbaland Dubai concert lands at Coca-Cola Arena on Friday, 28 November 2025. Expect a hard‑hitting set, clean transitions, and a catalogue that shaped pop, hip‑hop, and R&B. Dubai gets a legend on a big stage with big sound. The Emperor of Sound Arrives Timbaland is not just a producer; he is a cultural architect. His sound defined late 1990s hip‑hop and carried into the 2000s as a global movement. His beats introduced new syncopation, off‑kilter rhythms, and futuristic textures that pushed pop and rap into unexplored territories. With 18 Grammy nominations and four wins, his fingerprints are on some…

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Dubai’s poolside dining scene is more than just about food—it’s about glamour, sunshine, and unforgettable moments. Imagine dipping your toes in crystal-clear waters while sipping on signature cocktails, then savouring plates that combine global flavours with world-class presentation. This city’s year-round sunshine and breathtaking skyline set the stage for an experience that feels as indulgent as it looks. Whether you’re chasing chic rooftop glamour, laid-back beachfront vibes, or a mix of both, poolside restaurants in Dubai offer more than meals—they deliver sensory escapes. Here’s a curated look at eight of the very best. Poolside dining in Dubai can turn an…

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Dubai’s entertainment calendar bursts with exciting opportunities as family and kids activities in Dubai multiply this September. Fresh venues open alongside returning favourites across the emirate’s premier locations. Parents can choose from classical concerts to obstacle courses for unforgettable weekend adventures. Dubai keeps rolling out new things for families and it’s hard to keep up sometimes, but I’ve dragged my nieces and nephews to a bunch of these lately and watched their faces light up in ways the usual malls never manage. There was this one afternoon at a new indoor adventure zone — massive climbing nets, ball pits that…

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Mark your calendars, UAE residents—Eid Al Etihad 2025 UAE is shaping up to be absolutely spectacular. Tuesday, 2nd December brings the nation’s 54th birthday bash, and if you’re already calculating those delicious long weekend possibilities, you’re not alone. The entire country is buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be the most memorable National Day celebration yet. This isn’t just another public holiday. Eid Al Etihad 2025 UAE represents something deeply meaningful—a moment when seven emirates unite in celebration, pride, and shared dreams. Whether you’ve called this country home for decades or just moved here last month, this day belongs…

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Dubai’s comedy landscape transforms this October as Andrew Schulz takes centre stage. The fearless comedian brings his uncompromising style to the Coca-Cola Arena. Local comedy enthusiasts prepare for an evening that promises zero censorship and maximum laughs. The Schulz Revolution Hits the Emirates Andrew Schulz represents comedy’s most provocative voice in today’s entertainment climate. His rise defies traditional industry gatekeepers through direct audience connection. Schulz built his empire by speaking truths others avoid. The comedian’s journey began in New York’s underground comedy scene. He honed his craft performing in dingy clubs where only raw talent survived. Schulz developed his signature…

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J Balvin in Dubai is finally happening—the Colombian reggaeton superstar makes his UAE debut at UNTOLD Dubai 2025. After years of regional fans travelling internationally to catch his shows, J Balvin represents the biggest Latin music event the Middle East has ever witnessed. The 35-million-record-selling artist headlines UNTOLD Dubai from 6th-9th November 2025 at Dubai Parks and Resorts. This historic Dubai performance brings the “Prince of Reggaeton” to UAE soil for the first time, marking a watershed moment for the region’s music scene. For a complete overview of what’s happening across the city, explore our full UAE nightlife and events…

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Emirates has made a significant update to its Skywards Miles programme, changing how families plan for premium travel. As of August 2025, children aged eight and under can no longer book or upgrade to First Class using Miles, Miles-plus-cash, or other reward redemption options. This new Emirates Skywards Rewards Policy sets a clear tone of exclusivity for the airline’s most luxurious cabin. For many loyal travellers, this is more than just a technical change; it represents a shift in how Emirates is managing its loyalty programme to balance elite recognition with profitability. Emirates’ Strategy and Market Context Emirates has long…

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