Author: Monica Bonalto

Monica Bonalto's avatar

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.

GOING OUT

Jonas Blue at Bohemia Beach Club

By

Prepare for an electrifying night as the globally acclaimed DJ and producer, Jonas Blue, returns to Dubai on May 2, 2026, for an unforgettable performance at the iconic Bohemia Beach Club. This isn’t just another concert; it’s an immersive open-air electronic music spectacle, set against Dubai’s breathtaking skyline, promising to be a highlight of the city’s vibrant entertainment calendar. As your definitive guide to this premier event, we’ll navigate every aspect, from Jonas Blue’s anticipated setlist and signature sound to the exclusive ambience of Bohemia Beach Club, crucial ticket information, and practical logistics. Get ready to unlock the ultimate experience…

Read More
GOING OUT

Best Pools & Pool Bars in Dubai 2026: Day Passes, Rooftop Infinity Pools & Beach Clubs

By

Dubai does not do things by halves. The city that built an archipelago of islands in the shape of a palm tree, and a hotel shaped like a sail, applies the same logic to its pool scene. If you’re searching for the Best Pools & Pool Bars in Dubai, you’ll find that what you get here is not simply a place to cool down from the heat — it is an entire leisure category, ranging from the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool suspended 200 metres above Palm Jumeirah to adults-only swim-up bars, DJ-powered beach clubs, and serene family retreats shaded…

Read More
GOING OUT

Zuma Dubai DIFC — Full Guide 2026

By

Zuma Dubai DIFC isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an institution. Nestled in the heart of the Dubai International Financial Centre, it stands as a global beacon of contemporary Japanese cuisine, seamlessly blending culinary artistry with the city’s unparalleled luxury cosmopolitan lifestyle. More than just a dining destination, Zuma offers an immersive, sophisticated lifestyle experience and an exclusive social hub that has captivated discerning epicureans and social connoisseurs for years. This definitive guide will take you on a journey through the essence of Zuma Dubai DIFC, exploring its distinctive culinary philosophy, the unparalleled ambience that defines its space, and its pivotal…

Read More