Author: Monica Bonalto

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…

The United Arab Emirates transforms after sunset into a dazzling playground of lights, music, and endless possibilities. Finding the 20 best nightclubs in the UAE requires navigating a landscape that seamlessly blends Arabian mystique with international glamour. From Dubai’s sky-high venues overlooking glittering cityscapes to Abu Dhabi’s waterfront sanctuaries, this definitive guide unveils the Emirates’ most electrifying nightlife destinations. Dubai leads this nocturnal revolution with venues that defy conventional clubbing concepts. Rooftop spaces suspend dancers above the desert skyline. Underground chambers pulse with electronic beats that echo through marble corridors. Abu Dhabi contributes its own sophisticated interpretation of nightlife culture,…

Nobu: the man who made us love sushi represents one of culinary history’s most remarkable transformation stories. Nobu Matsuhisa’s revolutionary approach to Japanese cuisine fundamentally altered how the world perceives and consumes sushi. This legendary chef transcended cultural boundaries by merging traditional Japanese precision with bold Peruvian influences, creating a fusion philosophy that redefined global fine dining standards. From humble beginnings in post-war Japan to commanding a worldwide empire of luxury restaurants, Nobu’s journey embodies the American dream reimagined through Japanese discipline and Peruvian creativity. His innovative techniques introduced millions to sophisticated sushi experiences previously confined to exclusive Tokyo establishments.…

Fujairah, one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and modern attractions. Known for its stunning coastline along the Gulf of Oman and its mountainous landscapes, Fujairah is a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Here are 10 things to do in Fujairah this year for an unforgettable experience. Honestly, I’ve driven up to Fujairah more times than I can count — usually escaping the Dubai buzz for a day or a quick weekend — and every time I’m reminded how different it feels from the…

(Stay tuned for the next one) Since many of you didn’t get to win the last time around, we thought we’d give you one more chance to win one of these exclusive Cabanas at the world-famous W Hotel located on Palm Jumeirah. We are offering you and up to 10 friends the chance to win a luxurious cabana at SOLAIRÈ this Sunday for the last event before the Summer takes over. Enjoy an afternoon/evening of sun, sea, and the best sunset in one of Dubai’s most exclusive settings. The music comes to you from multi-award-winning DJ, Smokingroove, and Jay and…

I’ve lived in the UAE long enough to know that its skyline and desert get all the headlines — but if you follow the coastline, you discover an entirely different side to the Emirates. Our shores are as diverse as our cities: stretches of golden sand in Dubai, wild mountain-backed bays in Fujairah, and eco-protected havens in Abu Dhabi. I still remember my first proper beach day in the UAE — it was January, the weather was perfect, and I drove out to a quiet stretch in Fujairah thinking it would be empty. Ended up sharing the sand with a…

Sixty years ago, Dubai was a small pearling and trading town on the Creek. Today it’s one of the most recognisable cities on the planet — a skyline most people can identify from a thumbnail, a name that’s become shorthand for a particular kind of ambition. The journey spans desert winds and towering cranes, dhow sails and jet engines, pearl divers and tech entrepreneurs. Walking through modern Dubai feels surreal when you consider its humble origins. Fifty years ago, camels wandered where skyscrapers now pierce clouds. Traditional wind towers cooled homes where air-conditioned towers now house millions. The contrast captures…