Dubai welcomed over 17 million international visitors in 2023, contributing roughly 12.7% to the UAE’s GDP. The city has built its entire modern economy around being accessible to the world — and its visa system reflects that ambition. If you’re planning your travel and need information about the Dubai Visit Visa 2026, understanding the different requirements is crucial. Depending on your nationality and purpose of travel, getting into Dubai can be as effortless as stepping off the plane, or it can require advance planning and paperwork. The gap between those two experiences comes down to one thing: knowing which category…
Author: Monica Bonalto
Monica Bonalto
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.
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The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a federation of seven emirates, has risen from humble coastal settlements to a leading global hub for trade, tourism, culture, and innovation. This transformation — achieved in just a few decades — stands as one of the most remarkable stories of modern nation-building. But to truly understand the UAE, one must explore not only its history, but also its traditions, etiquette, and the vibrant destinations that define it today. For a complete practical guide to life in the Emirates, explore our full Living in the UAE hub. Ancient Roots and Pre-Federation Life Historical Foundations Archaeological…
The UAE has emerged as one of the world’s most exciting destinations for live music, fusing luxury venues with diverse line-ups that rival London, Seoul, and Miami. From beachside EDM blowouts to orchestral performances at the Emirates Palace, the country’s 2024–2025 calendar is bursting with options. Upcoming Music Festivals in the UAE don’t just showcase global stars — they embody the Emirates’ cultural ambition, its tourism drive, and its love of entertainment on a grand scale. I’ve been to enough concerts in Dubai to know the thrill: the desert evening air, the scent of oud in the crowd, and the…
ARTBAT, the dynamic Ukrainian DJ duo, takes the stage at HIVE on June 7th. Renowned for their mesmerizing soundscapes and powerful performances, ARTBAT will (as usual) deliver an unforgettable experience that will keep us dancing all night long. ARTBAT live at Hive will be awesome. Event Details: Who is ARTBAT? ARTBAT, the amalgamation of the names of Artur and Batish, is a Kyiv-based electronic music duo that has taken the global music scene by storm. Known for their captivating soundscapes that blend melodic techno and house, ARTBAT has been a favourite on the festival circuit and in clubs worldwide. The…
Dubai is gearing up for a sensational night of music and energy as Grammy-winning superstar Macklemore is set to take the stage at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena on October 4th. The much-anticipated Macklemore Dubai Show promises to be a dynamic event. Known for his eclectic mix of hip-hop and pop, Macklemore’s performance will captivate fans and newcomers alike. Macklemore to Rock the Coca-Cola Arena. The Event Brought to you by Dubai Calendar and presented by All Things Live Middle East, this highly anticipated concert, the Macklemore Dubai Show, is part of Macklemore’s global tour. It showcases his biggest hits and…
The UAE is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the year, the WATERBOMB Festival, scheduled to take place on June 7-8, 2024, at Dubai Festival City. Originating in South Korea, this unique festival merges K-Pop, EDM, and an epic water fight into a thrilling multi-sensory experience. This guide explores everything you need to know about the festival, from the star-studded lineup to its historical significance, making it a must-attend event for residents and tourists alike. When the WATERBOMB Festival Touches Down, we’ll all be there. The Concept and Origin of WATERBOMB Festival The WATERBOMB Festival is…
Spanish hotel giant Palladium Hotel Group will make a significant mark in the Middle East. It will do so with its first venture in the UAE. The Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotel comes to the UAE with all the fanfare included in such a move. Known for its luxurious properties across the globe, the group is gearing up to introduce a new brand. This is The Unexpected Hotels and Residences. Their properties include iconic locations in Ibiza, Spain. Soon, they will open the Ushuaïa Unexpected Hotel in the UAE. Moreover, they have properties in Mexico, Italy, and Jamaica. This exciting development will…
PARTNER CONTENT Continue Reading Green Day is coming to the UAE
The Spinneys supermarket chain is more than a retail brand in the UAE — it is a household name woven into the daily lives of residents. For over a century, Spinneys has evolved from a single store in Alexandria into one of the Middle East’s most iconic retailers. With a reputation for quality, innovation, and community engagement, Spinneys has become synonymous with premium groceries, fresh produce, and a superior shopping experience. This is the story of how Spinneys grew from humble beginnings to become a leader in the UAE’s retail landscape. For a complete practical guide to life in the…
The Best DJ Myth persists because taste, context, and culture shape what feels “best.” From radio’s pioneers to today’s festivals, DJing keeps evolving, and so do arguments about who the greatest is. Music history, technology, personal preference, and global culture all prove there is no such thing as a single “best DJ.” The Evolution of DJing DJing began in the early 20th century with radio presenters who played recorded music for mass audiences. These broadcasters were tastemakers, but even then debates about the Best DJ Myth began. Who had the best selections? Who connected with the crowd most? The arguments…