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.

A smiling comedian stands on stage holding a microphone, wearing a dark shirt with 'CHAPELLE' embroidered on it, with a colorful background.

Dave Chappelle has performed in Abu Dhabi twice — first at a record-breaking sold-out show in May 2024, then again on Friday, 27 June 2025, both at Etihad Arena as part of Abu Dhabi’s growing comedy calendar. Here’s a recap of both nights, plus a look at why Abu Dhabi has become a serious stop for the world’s biggest stand-up names. The Historic 2024 Debut Chappelle’s first Abu Dhabi show, held in May 2024 as part of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Comedy Week, drew more than 14,000 guests to Etihad Arena — making it the largest comedy event the region…

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In the dimly lit heart of East London in 2010, a cultural moment quietly unfolded in the corner of a dilapidated boiler room. A webcam, hastily taped to a wall, streamed a live DJ set onto the early internet. No stage, no crowd barriers, no press. Just raw music, sweat, and energy pulsing through underground London. That evening wasn’t merely a one-off event; it was the genesis of what would become one of the most transformative platforms in modern music history: Boiler Room. This now-global phenomenon has since reinvented the way audiences experience club culture, while democratising access to the…

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Why Tomorrowland Is Still the World’s Best Music Festival becomes crystal clear the moment you step into its fairytale realm. This Belgian phenomenon transcends ordinary festival experiences through groundbreaking production, unrivalled lineups, and magical atmospheres. While competitors chase trends, Tomorrowland sets standards that others desperately attempt to replicate. Tomorrowland hits different when you’re actually there — the first time I went I wasn’t prepared for how massive it feels once you step past the entrance. The main stage alone is like walking into a dream someone built with lasers and flowers; one minute you’re dancing with 50,000 strangers, the next…

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To survive the summer in UAE, mastering UAE summer survival requires more than just sunscreen and staying indoors. With temperatures often soaring past 45°C, life in the Emirates during the hotter months can be intense. But that doesn’t mean you have to hide in your AC all season. From icy escapes and immersive art experiences to thrilling indoor sports and luxurious chill zones, we’ve hand-picked 20 of the best ways to keep cool and have fun during the sweltering UAE summer. Summer in the UAE is brutal, no sugarcoating it — I’ve spent enough Julys and Augusts here to know…

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SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is not just another theme park on Yas Island — it is the world’s largest indoor marine-life theme park, home to the record-breaking Endless Ocean aquarium and the only marine rescue and rehabilitation centre of its kind in the region. Whether you are planning a family day, a summer escape from the heat, or a genuinely educational outing, this is the complete 2026 guide: tickets, all eight realms, what not to miss, and how to get there.Related: explore our full Yas Island area guide for Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Etihad Arena and things to do. Quick Reference…

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Key Facts Headliner: Franz FerdinandVenue: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, DubaiDate: 13 December 2025 — this event has already taken place The UAE is about to welcome one of the UK’s most influential indie rock bands of the 21st century—Franz Ferdinand—as they bring their 2025 world tour, The Human Fear, to Dubai. This highly anticipated Franz Ferdinand Dubai concert marks the spectacular conclusion of their global circuit. Here, the Scottish five-piece will headline Coca-Cola Arena on Tuesday, 13 December 2025. This special performance is set to be a monumental night of music. The setlist promises fresh material alongside classic anthems that…

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Key Facts Headliner: Carl CoxVenue: Pacha, Dubai, DubaiDate: 17 October 2025 — this event has already taken place The UAE nightlife scene is about to hit a new high this autumn. Carl Cox gets set for a thrilling live performance in Dubai 2025. One of the most legendary names in global electronic music, he returns to Dubai to headline the season opener of PACHA ICONS at the beachfront hotspot FIVE LUXE. Scheduled for Friday, 17 October 2025, this monumental event marks the beginning of a new series of epic Ibiza-style nights at Playa Pacha. This event brings the spirit of…

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A grand white mosque featuring a large central dome and four tall minarets, set against a clear blue sky.

Fujairah, one of the UAE’s best-kept secrets, is more than just a beachside escape—it’s a cultural treasure trove with rugged mountains, serene mosques, ancient forts, and underwater adventures. Whether you’re planning a long weekend away or you’re a UAE resident keen on exploring beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Fujairah offers a refreshing pace of life and a long list of things to do in 2025. Here’s our guide to the 20 best experiences in this underappreciated gem. Fujairah always sneaks up on me in the best way — every drive up the coast feels like leaving the city behind without…

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Looking for the ultimate Sunday escape in Dubai? SOLARAE at Terra Solis delivers a luxurious, music-infused experience where sun-soaked vibes, exceptional dining, and world-class DJs come together in a dazzling desert setting. Whether you’re unwinding after a busy weekend or kicking off the week in style, SOLARAE offers a vibrant atmosphere that blends brunch culture with festival spirit. With its backdrop of golden dunes and a crowd that knows how to party, this is Dubai’s most stylish desert hangout — redefining what Sundays are meant to feel like. This isn’t just brunch — it’s an all-day journey into sound, flavour,…

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