Author: Monica Bonalto

Monica Bonalto's avatar

Monica Bonalto is What's Hot in UAE's voice for nightlife, dining, and everything worth doing after dark. Born in Monaco and now based in the UAE, she brings European flair and genuine insider access to the Emirates' most talked-about venues and events. With a background writing features for major magazines across Europe, she has a knack for spotting the scene before it trends. Her work is indexed on Muckrack. Find her on Medium, Vocal, Substack, and Mastodon.

The highly anticipated Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience will redefine the nightlife scene in the UAE. Its grand opening is scheduled for October 26, 2024. Leading the charge is none other than Calvin Harris, the globally acclaimed DJ and producer known for his chart-topping hits and electrifying performances. This event marks the first of many extraordinary nights planned at Dubai Harbour. Ushuaïa Dubai promises to bring the iconic Ibiza vibe to the heart of Dubai. The Ushuaia Dubai Opening with Calvin Harris is a big thing. Calvin Harris: The Headliner Calvin Harris needs little introduction. With a career that boasts multiple…

Read More

As the outdoor party season kicks off, Barasti Beach Bar is set to host one of the biggest names in electronic dance music. Fresh off the stage from TomorrowLand Belgium 2024, DJ Liu will bring his electrifying set to Dubai on Saturday, 26 October. Barasti is going to be special with the presence of DJ Liu. Therefore, it creates an event not to be missed. About DJ Liu DJ Liu, a Brazilian sensation, has been making waves in the EDM scene for nearly a decade. Best known for his chart-topping hits “All I Want” and “Close to Me,” a collaboration…

Read More

As the year draws to a close, Abu Dhabi is set to host one of the most anticipated electronic music events in the world—Afterlife. On the 6th of December 2024, Yas Gateway Park will be transformed into a pulsating, immersive experience. This transformation marks the iconic music event’s Middle Eastern debut. Afterlife ABU DHABI is known for its ethereal visual displays, cutting-edge soundscapes, and boundary-pushing performances. It is poised to leave an indelible mark on the UAE’s cultural landscape. What Makes Afterlife Special? Founded by the Italian DJ duo Tale Of Us, Afterlife is more than just a music event;…

Read More

The legendary British band Kasabian is gearing up for their highly anticipated Kasabian Dubai Concert. They will deliver a high-energy performance at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on 13th October 2024. Known for their electrifying stage presence and chart-topping hits, the Kasabian Dubai Concert promises a night of unforgettable music. This is a night that fans won’t want to miss. A Night of Iconic Anthems With a string of successful albums and iconic tracks like “Fire,” “Club Foot,” and “L.S.F.,” Kasabian has captivated audiences worldwide. Their dynamic live shows have become a hallmark of their career and capture the spirit…

Read More

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island proudly introduces W Spotlight, an exciting bi-monthly music series held in the vibrant W Lounge. This new event series is set to bring a diverse range of musical genres to guests, showcasing the best of local talent in an electrifying atmosphere. W Abu Dhabi – W Spotlight Music Series. Event Details Starting this month, W Spotlight will take place every second Saturday from 8 pm to midnight. The W Lounge will come alive with global beats delivered by renowned local talent, promising an unforgettable night filled with a lively atmosphere and unparalleled vibes under…

Read More

In exciting news for music and motorsport fans, rap icon Eminem will perform at Etihad Park during the Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend. The performance will happen on Saturday, December 6. Eminem, a 15-time Grammy Award winner and Academy Award recipient, will electrify the crowd with hits like “Lose Yourself,” “The Real Slim Shady,” “Without Me,” and “Sing for the Moment,” among others. This event promises to be a highlight of the UAE capital’s entertainment calendar. Eminem at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is something we need. A Major Addition to the Lineup Eminem joins an impressive…

Read More

Hidden gems in Dubai reward curious travellers and locals alike. Hidden gems in Dubai also reward patience and timing. This is a human, on‑the‑ground guide. I walk these lanes. I ride these abras. I wait for these sunsets. I crowd‑dodge these markets. I test these routes with a Nol card and a water bottle. I write what actually helps. I’ve spent years stumbling across these little corners of Dubai that most people miss because they’re glued to the usual Instagram spots. One of my favourites is still that tiny alley in Al Fahidi where the old wind towers block the…

Read More

The Pacha nightclub history spans nearly six decades of revolutionary entertainment and cultural influence worldwide. Starting as a small coastal venue in 1967, Pacha nightclub history transformed global nightlife forever. Ricardo Urgell’s vision created more than just a club—he birthed an international lifestyle phenomenon. Few brands command such reverence across generations of partygoers, celebrities, and music industry legends. The Pacha nightclub history demonstrates how authentic vision combined with strategic evolution creates lasting cultural impact. From Sitges to Ibiza to Dubai, this legendary brand continues reshaping entertainment landscapes globally. The Sitges Genesis: Where Legends Begin Ricardo Urgell opened the original Pacha…

Read More

The UAE is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle and vibrant culinary scene. Recently, the nation has also become a pioneer in promoting sustainable dining practices. With an increasing focus on sourcing local and organic ingredients and adopting eco-friendly practices, restaurants across the UAE are setting new standards in sustainability. This article delves into the rising trend of sustainable dining in the UAE, highlighting notable establishments, their initiatives, and the broader impact on the culinary landscape. The Rise of Sustainable Dining As global awareness of environmental issues grows, the demand for sustainable dining options has surged. In the UAE, this shift…

Read More

There’s something electric in the Dubai air again. After two years of muted evenings and closed doors, Dubai’s Nightlife Revival is in full swing — and you can feel it from JBR to Downtown. As someone who has spent years weaving between its rooftop bars, late-night lounges, and open-air dancefloors, I can tell you: the city hasn’t just bounced back. It’s reinvented the night. I’ve watched Dubai’s nightlife shift over the past couple of years and honestly, it’s starting to feel like the old energy is coming back stronger. I remember nights in 2020–2021 when everything shut down early or…

Read More