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 crowded nightclub with people dancing and socializing under large disco balls and colorful lights.
GOING OUT

Things to Do in Dubai This Weekend

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Updated: 5 August 2026 — covering the weekend of Friday 7 to Sunday 9 August 2026. In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in Dubai this weekend and beyond. This page is updated regularly with what’s actually happening in Dubai. Not a recycled list of tourist attractions — real events, current deals, and things worth leaving the house for. August in Dubai means one thing above all: Dubai Summer Surprises is in full swing, running right through to 30 August, with mall-wide offers, family entertainment, and bargain dining deals across the city. It’s peak indoor-and-air-conditioned season —…

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