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.

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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Key Facts Headliner: TimbalandVenue: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, DubaiDate: 28 November 2025 — this event has already taken place 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…

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Dubai has poolside dining on every rung of the price ladder, from a AED 150 spend-as-you-eat pass by the water to a full white-tablecloth Mediterranean spread that happens to have a infinity pool attached. The difference between a mediocre pool day and a genuinely excellent one is almost always the food and drink — and knowing which venues get both right is the thing this guide is for. Below are the best poolside restaurants in Dubai for 2026, with real pricing, what access includes, and which neighbourhood best suits your plans. Best Poolside Restaurants in Dubai: Quick-Reference Table Venue Area…

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Dubai’s entertainment calendar bursts with exciting opportunities as family and kids activities in Dubai keep multiplying year-round. Fresh venues open alongside returning favourites across the emirate’s premier locations. Parents can choose from interactive markets 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.Related: explore our full Abu Dhabi Corniche area guide for the waterfront promenade, beaches and things to do. 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.…

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Key Facts Headliner: Andrew Schulz & Flagrant Venue: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai Date: 7 October 2025 — this event has already taken place 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.Related: explore our full Bluewaters Island area guide for Ain Dubai, beach clubs and things to do. Related: explore our full City Walk area guide for alfresco dining, shopping and bars, The Green Planet and Coca-Cola Arena. The Schulz Revolution…

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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 Skywards is the free loyalty programme shared by Emirates and flydubai. Members earn two different balances: Skywards Miles, which can be spent on rewards, and Tier Miles, which determine Blue, Silver, Gold or Platinum status. You can earn through flights and partners, then redeem for Emirates, flydubai and partner-airline flights, upgrades, Cash+Miles and selected hotel, retail or lifestyle rewards. The programme has no single honest “AED value per Mile”. Value changes by route, cabin, date, reward availability, taxes and the redemption chosen. Check the live Emirates Miles Calculator and compare it with the cash price before transferring points or…

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Hiking trails UAE easy access reward spontaneous adventurers with spectacular coastal boardwalks, dramatic mountain routes, and peaceful wadi walks. This comprehensive guide covers the UAE’s most accessible trails using recent local knowledge and insider tips. Every recommended route offers straightforward parking, clear waymarking, family-friendly gradients, and realistic timings perfect for cooler months. Hiking in the UAE can feel like a secret escape if you know where to go, and I’ve found the best ones are the short drives that don’t demand a full day commitment. There’s this trail near Hatta I keep returning to — barely 30 minutes from Dubai,…

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