image
Dubai
Music

by Barbara Yakimchuk

Dubai Insiders: Chloe Barakat On Music, Community, And Life

20 Oct 2025

Instagram: @klo_____________

It all began with a simple thought — although many of us work in creative fields and call Dubai home, each of us loves the city for our own reasons. The city feels so familiar — and yet, somehow, still full of surprises.

That is how our new podcast Dubai Insiders was born: a series where people from different communities and creative scenes answer 10 questions about life here. Across eight episodes, we will uncover personal stories and perspectives, revealing a new and unexpected side of Dubai along the way.

And for the very first episode, we wanted someone truly special — not just a familiar face from Dubai’s music scene, but someone close to our hearts. Meet Chloe Barakat, who you probably know better as KLO — especially if you are one of those who never miss a good evening gig.

Here are four things you will discover in the episode:

  • The best place to fall in love with DJ gigs — even if you aren't the biggest fan yet. I won’t keep it a secret — it is Soul Kitchen. I couldn’t miss this question, and as a little reward for my curiosity, KLO shared a few insider tips on how to feel more at ease during a set (spoiler: just go up and chat to the DJ — they don’t bite!). She also revealed the one thing you should never do.
  • KLO’s favourite — and least favourite — area to live in. Her favourite? An easy one — Sobha Heartland. What genuinely surprised me, though, was her least favourite — especially since I happen to live there myself: Business Bay. But, to be fair, she had a pretty good reason for it.
  • Hidden gems for your Pilates classes. She is spilling all the secrets and sharing why this routine really works for her. Her personal Pilates choice? Boost in City Walk.
  • KLO’s first panic attack in Dubai. A personal but important story — first, to raise awareness in case it ever happens to you, and second, to reassure those who have just moved here: stress is real, but there are ways to manage it.

Listen now

Come for the girl we love for her sound and her knack for staying behind the decks for five hours — stay for the personal stories and favourite Dubai moments she shares.