Music lovers in Abu Dhabi, get ready! The legendary 17-time Grammy Award winner Sting is set to bring his electrifying STING 3.0 World Tour to Etihad Arena. This will be for one exclusive night on 3 May 2025. This once-in-a-lifetime event promises an unforgettable evening of nostalgia. The music icon will deliver a dynamic blend of his greatest hits, timeless classics, and rare gems. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a new listener, this is an extraordinary opportunity. You can witness one of the most influential musicians of all time live on stage during Sting’s 3.0 Tour. What to Expect…
Author: Monica Bonalto
Monica Bonalto
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.
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If you’re looking for a night filled with electrifying music, mouth-watering food, and an incredible sense of community, look no further than Break The Block. It is happening on 1 February 2025 at Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai. This vibrant event promises to bring together people from all walks of life for a celebration of freedom, individuality, and authenticity. With an eclectic line-up of internationally acclaimed artists, it focuses on community and creativity. Break The Block is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events of the year. A Star-Studded Artist Line-Up At the heart of Break…
Mark your calendars, art enthusiasts! The much-anticipated Art Dubai 2025 is set to take place from 18th to 20th April at the iconic Madinat Jumeirah. This prestigious art fair is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about contemporary and modern art, showcasing a dazzling array of talent from around the world. Art Dubai 2025 A World-Class Showcase Art Dubai is renowned for bringing together artists, galleries, and collectors from across the globe. The 17th edition in 2024 featured over 400 artists from 40 countries, and the upcoming event promises to be even more spectacular. With dedicated sections such as Contemporary,…
In an electrifying announcement, dance music legend Norman Cook, famously known as Fatboy Slim, is set to light up Dubai once again. Scheduled for Saturday, 25th January 2025, this marks the iconic artist’s first performance in the city in three years. For fans of big beat and electronic dance music, this is an event that simply cannot be missed. Fatboy Slim Returns to Dubai and we will be there. A City of Musical Legends Dubai has established itself as a global hub for premier music events, regularly hosting the world’s biggest names in dance music. However, few acts truly stand…
In the UAE, sneaker culture has transformed into a vibrant lifestyle movement. Stores are evolving beyond retail to become dynamic cultural hubs. These spaces host everything from art shows and workshops to exclusive events. They offer sneakerheads a unique blend of fashion, creativity, and community. Here are some standout sneaker destinations that are redefining the culture in the UAE. For a complete overview of what’s happening across the city, explore our full UAE nightlife and events guide 1. The Personalisation Hub at Level Shoes Located in The Dubai Mall, the Personalisation Hub at Level Shoes is a haven for sneaker…
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is rapidly embracing non-fungible tokens (NFTs), a groundbreaking technology that is revolutionising the art and fashion industries. These digital assets are not only redefining ownership but also transforming creative expression in ways never seen before. For a country that thrives on innovation and positions itself as a global hub for culture and technology, NFTs are a natural fit. They reflect the UAE’s vision for the future while opening up new avenues for artists, designers, and collectors alike. NFTs and the UAE Art Scene is something to pay close attention to. I got pulled into the…
The UAE is at the forefront of embracing innovation. The rise of pop-up culture is a testament to this dynamic energy. Temporary shops, galleries, and cafés are redefining the cultural landscape. They offer exciting and unique experiences for residents and visitors alike. From bustling pop-up markets to serene desert cafés, these short-lived spaces have become a vibrant part of the UAE’s cultural tapestry. They embody the essence of Pop-Up Culture. Pop-ups in Dubai used to feel like a novelty, but now they’re basically part of how the city breathes. I’ve queued for a limited-edition sneaker drop at one, ended up…
Beyond the UAE’s renowned landmarks and luxury attractions lies a vibrant tapestry of hidden gems offering unique entertainment experiences. For those eager to venture off the beaten path, the following venues provide immersive adventures that delve deep into the nation’s innovative spirit and ultimately, the UAE’s best kept secrets. Some of these secrets I only discovered because I took a random exit off the highway or followed a friend who swore “you have to see this place”. One afternoon I ended up at a tiny fishing village in Umm Al Quwain — no tourists, just old boats bobbing in the…
From house beats rolling over the surf to hip-hop shaking stadiums, the United Arab Emirates has transformed into a world-class music festival hub. Over the last decade, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have leveraged cutting-edge infrastructure, government-backed cultural initiatives, and a community representing over 200 nationalities to create a festival season that rivals Europe’s summer circuit. The UAE’s rise is no accident—this is a nation that has turned its deserts and futuristic skylines into a global cultural stage. Here’s a comprehensive, data-driven guide to why the UAE is dominating the music festival scene, with insider planning tips and event-by-event detail. Why…
The UAE’s renowned desert retreat, Terra Solis, is set to deliver a New Year’s Eve celebration like no other. Known for hosting spectacular events featuring A-list performers, Terra Solis is pulling out all the stops to welcome 2025 in grand style. This year, Lost Frequencies and Agents of Time will take centre stage. They will bring electrifying energy to the Arabian dunes for an unforgettable evening. Lost Frequencies & Agents of Time at Terra Solis is surely the main event of the big night in Dubai. The legendary Lost Frequencies & Agents of Time at Terra Solis NYE Lost Frequencies:…