On October 22 and 23 Fadel Chaker made a triumphant return to stage in Riyadh, following a 14-year absence.
The Lebanese pop and tarab singer, known as the "King of Romance" was the opening, live act for the seventh edition of Riyadh Season. Chaker broke onto the music scene in the late 1990s and signed with Rotana Records, releasing major commercial hits and romantic ballads that dominated Arabic radio stations. And, in 2012, at the peak of his career, Chaker shockingly announced his retirement from music.
But, the King of Romance once again returned to the stage, bringing with him the music for which he is known and loved.
Hailed as one of the best events of October, Chaker performed for a sold-out crowd in Riyadh. If you missed out, don't worry, there is still one more date in the diary to catch the legend live on stage. On Friday, October 30, the crooner will once again take to the stage in the Kingdom, this time in Dammam. For just one night, Chaker will perform his most iconic ballads, at the Aramco Stadium (previously known as the Khobar Arena). Tickets are still available for this incredible experience.
Following his Riyadh performances, his first interview following the long-awaited comeback, Chaker spoke with Billboard Arabia about fulfilling a dream years in the making. He reflected on his deep bond with the Saudi audience and praised the pivotal role played by his son, fellow artist Mohamed Chaker — a shared journey that culminated in an emotional reunion on stage.
After a 14-year absence, you returned to the stage in Saudi Arabia, opening your first concert as part of Riyadh Season. Tell us about this incredible experience.
"Truly, the dream came true. This was a dream I had been dreaming of for 14 years, and thank God, the Lord fulfilled my dream among the kindest people in the world — the people of Riyadh, my beloved ones."
Why did you feel Riyadh specifically was the right place for your return to the stage? And what does it mean to you that your comeback starts here?
"Because they are good, kind people, and everyone knows the people of Riyadh. They are full of love, pure love. And of course, I felt their love — may God bless them."
At the beginning of this year, you won two awards at the Joy Awards: Best Male Artist and Best Song. What does this honour mean to you?
"This is an international award, and I am proud to have won two awards. God willing, this year I intend to win more than two awards. I mean to do so, God willing, and I am focused on this goal."
Mohamed has been by your side throughout all these years, always speaking about his dream of seeing you return to the stage. We saw you together in rehearsals and live on stage. What do you say to him now that this dream has come true?
"Mohamed never left my side; since he was little, he never left me. My beloved son — may God be pleased with him — I pray for him every single day."
Fadel Chaker at Aramco Stadium, Al Khobar, Dammam
Friday, October 30, 2026 at 9.30pm (doors at 8pm)
Tickets starting from SAR 475 per person
Buy your tickets here
