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…
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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