There’s a lot more happening on the Abu Dhabi events calendar. Our complete Abu Dhabi guide keeps you up to date.
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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Abu Dhabi, brace yourself for a night of comedy gold! The legendary Ben Elton, often regarded as the godfather of modern stand-up, is bringing his brand-new show, Authentic Stupidity, to the Etihad Arena on 7th December. Thanks to GME Events, this highly anticipated performance marks Elton’s first-ever show in Abu Dhabi. It’s set to be one of the most talked-about comedy events of the year. Ben Elton’s Triumphant Return to Stand-Up Ben Elton has long been a force to reckon with in the world of comedy. His impressive career spans decades. After a 15-year hiatus from stand-up, he made a…
Dubai is gearing up for the return of one of the world’s biggest and most influential dance music sensations. Martin Garrix Comes Back to the UAE. The Dutch superstar DJ is set to bring his high-energy beats and chart-topping tracks back to the city for an unmissable live performance. This event, presented by ATLANTIS LIVE, will take place at Atlantis, The Palm, on 16 November. It promises to be a spectacular night of music and entertainment. If you’re a fan of electronic dance music, seize this chance to see Martin Garrix in action. He will deliver an electrifying showcase of…
Get ready for one of the most anticipated design events of the year—Downtown Design 2024! As the Middle East’s only trade fair dedicated to innovative, high-quality design, this annual showcase in Dubai Design District (d3) brings together design professionals and aficionados from around the world. This event runs from 6-9 November 2024. Downtown Design is the place to be for those who are passionate about the future of design. It spans across a variety of industries. These industries include interiors, architecture, retail, and hospitality. A Global Hub for Design Talent and Innovation Downtown Design has established itself as a magnet…
Mark your calendars! Sole DXB is making its much-anticipated return from 13-15 December 2024. It will bring together the best in lifestyle, street culture, music, and sports at Dubai Design District (d3). Known as the premier platform for urban culture in the Middle East, Sole DXB 2024 continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. It offers a space for art, fashion, and culture enthusiasts to celebrate what’s fresh and trending. What to Expect at Sole DXB 2024 The 2024 edition promises an unforgettable experience with a packed schedule that includes: A Look Back at Sole DXB 2023: Honouring…
What better way to sign off the 44th edition of GITEX GLOBAL, the world’s largest tech and startup show, than with a sensational live performance by Swedish DJ Eric Prydz? On 18 October, Dubai will witness Prydz’s ground-breaking show HOLO at Expo City Arena, Expo City Dubai. He is known for merging technology with music. This debut promises an unforgettable experience. It is a must-see for electronic music fans. It is also great for tech enthusiasts alike. Eric Prydz Brings HOLO to Dubai and we want in. A Fusion of Music and Technology: The HOLO Experience Eric Prydz is not…
Global Village Dubai: Everything You Need to Know Global Village Dubai is the world’s largest tourism, leisure, entertainment and shopping destination — a sprawling open-air cultural extravaganza that runs every year from October to May. Located on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, the park hosts over 90 countries across massive pavilions, each showcasing food, souvenirs, performances, and culture from around the globe. With more than 90 million visitors since its launch in 1997, Global Village is one of Dubai’s most iconic annual events and a must-visit for residents and tourists alike. Global Village Season 30 (2025–2026) Season 30 of Global…
Wiz Khalifa, the multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated rapper and producer, will make a massive return to Dubai this November. Fans in the UAE are gearing up for what promises to be one of the most exciting concerts of the year. Wiz Khalifa will perform live at the Coca-Cola Arena on Saturday, November 16, 2024. This event will bring his electrifying stage presence and chart-topping hits like Black and Yellow and See You Again to the heart of Dubai’s entertainment scene. This marks a major comeback for the superstar in the region. Pre-pandemic, Wiz Khalifa was no stranger to Dubai’s clubbing circuit. He…
Dubai’s nightlife scene will reach new heights as Soho Garden Brings Boris Brejcha Back to Dubai on October 26th, 2024. Known for his unique “high-tech minimal” style, Brejcha has become a household name in the global electronic music community. This October, the iconic DJ will take over the decks at Soho Garden. He will deliver a night of pulsating beats and unforgettable vibes. This event is one of the most anticipated events of the year for music lovers in the UAE. Boris Brejcha: The Maestro of High-Tech Minimal Boris Brejcha’s rise to fame has been nothing short of spectacular. Originating…
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…