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.

W Abu Dhabi – Yas Island proudly introduces W Spotlight, an exciting bi-monthly music series held in the vibrant W Lounge. This new event series is set to bring a diverse range of musical genres to guests, showcasing the best of local talent in an electrifying atmosphere. W Abu Dhabi – W Spotlight Music Series. Event Details Starting this month, W Spotlight will take place every second Saturday from 8 pm to midnight. The W Lounge will come alive with global beats delivered by renowned local talent, promising an unforgettable night filled with a lively atmosphere and unparalleled vibes under…

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In exciting news for music and motorsport fans, rap icon Eminem will perform at Etihad Park during the Formula One Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend. The performance will happen on Saturday, December 6. Eminem, a 15-time Grammy Award winner and Academy Award recipient, will electrify the crowd with hits like “Lose Yourself,” “The Real Slim Shady,” “Without Me,” and “Sing for the Moment,” among others. This event promises to be a highlight of the UAE capital’s entertainment calendar. Eminem at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is something we need. A Major Addition to the Lineup Eminem joins an impressive…

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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…

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The Pacha nightclub history spans nearly six decades of revolutionary entertainment and cultural influence worldwide. Starting as a small coastal venue in 1967, Pacha nightclub history transformed global nightlife forever. Ricardo Urgell’s vision created more than just a club—he birthed an international lifestyle phenomenon. Few brands command such reverence across generations of partygoers, celebrities, and music industry legends. The Pacha nightclub history demonstrates how authentic vision combined with strategic evolution creates lasting cultural impact. From Sitges to Ibiza to Dubai, this legendary brand continues reshaping entertainment landscapes globally. The Sitges Genesis: Where Legends Begin Ricardo Urgell opened the original Pacha…

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A group of chefs wearing white uniforms and hats sit around a long wooden table with plates of salad and glasses of water. A person at the head of the table holds a book. Behind them is a chalkboard with a large recycling symbol surrounded by various eco-friendly and culinary icons.

The UAE is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle and vibrant culinary scene. Recently, the nation has also become a pioneer in promoting sustainable dining practices. With an increasing focus on sourcing local and organic ingredients and adopting eco-friendly practices, restaurants across the UAE are setting new standards in sustainability. This article delves into the rising trend of sustainable dining in the UAE, highlighting notable establishments, their initiatives, and the broader impact on the culinary landscape. The Rise of Sustainable Dining As global awareness of environmental issues grows, the demand for sustainable dining options has surged. In the UAE, this shift…

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There’s something electric in the Dubai air again. After two years of muted evenings and closed doors, Dubai’s Nightlife Revival is in full swing — and you can feel it from JBR to Downtown. As someone who has spent years weaving between its rooftop bars, late-night lounges, and open-air dancefloors, I can tell you: the city hasn’t just bounced back. It’s reinvented the night.Related: explore our full JLT area guide for the best value restaurants and bars, lakeside things to do and how to get around Jumeirah Lakes Towers. I’ve watched Dubai’s nightlife shift over the past couple of years…

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The image shows a busy outdoor scene in an industrial area at dusk. Tall warehouse-like buildings with corrugated metal walls line both sides of the walkway, illuminated by outdoor lights. A crowd of people, including a person carrying a child on their shoulders, are walking along the path, creating a bustling atmosphere under the twilight sky.

Walk through the streets of Al Quoz today and you’ll find a district humming with creative energy — a far cry from the days when it was simply a grid of industrial warehouses and workshops. In just over two decades, this once utilitarian part of Dubai has evolved into Dubai’s Art Central, the beating heart of the city’s contemporary art scene. Here, concrete façades hide world-class galleries, innovative studios, and cultural spaces that draw visitors, collectors, and creatives from across the globe. Alserkal Avenue — the beating heart of Al Quoz Art Central — was developed by Abdelmonem Bin Eisa…

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Ushuaïa built its name on the Ibiza hillside — daytime-into-night pool parties with the biggest DJs on earth and a production budget you can see from space. Now that exact energy has a Dubai home at Dubai Harbour. Here is the full guide to Ushuaïa Dubai: where it is, how to get in, who is playing, and what a night there actually looks like.Related: explore our full Bluewaters Island area guide for Ain Dubai, beach clubs and things to do. Quick Reference Detail Information Location Dubai Harbour (near Bluewaters and Dubai Marina) Getting there No station at the door —…

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If you’ve ever tried sticking to a vegan diet in the UAE while juggling a busy schedule, you’ll know the challenge. I’ve been there myself — racing between meetings, events, and trying to keep my fridge stocked with fresh, plant-based meals. That’s why the growth of vegan meal prep UAE services over the last few years has been a complete game-changer. These companies aren’t just delivering food; they’re making plant-based living accessible, flavourful, and downright exciting. After months of researching, tasting, and speaking to fellow plant-based foodies, I’ve put together the most in-depth guide to the 10 companies you need…

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The UAE’s culinary scene is experiencing a significant transformation as The Michelin Guide Expands in the UAE, awarding more restaurants with prestigious Michelin stars. This expansion reflects the country’s growing reputation as a global gastronomic hub. In this article, we delve into the latest additions to the Michelin Guide, the impact of these accolades on the UAE’s dining landscape, and highlight some of the must-visit Michelin-starred restaurants. I remember when the first Michelin stars landed in Dubai a few years back — it felt like the city had finally arrived on the global food map, and honestly, it still gives…

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