The Virgin Radio host said he declined a dream job offer in Sydney after several weeks of reflection, opting to stay in the UAE city he has called home for almost two decades.
Dubai radio personality Kris Fade has confirmed he will remain in the UAE after weeks of speculation about a possible return to Australia for a major broadcasting role.
The announcement follows reports linking the Virgin Radio Dubai presenter to a high-profile opportunity in Sydney, with industry speculation suggesting he was being considered as a potential replacement for Australian radio hosts Kyle Sandilands and Jackie ‘O’ Henderson amid changes at the Australian Radio Network (ARN).
On Sunday, June 21, Fade teased an upcoming announcement on social media, posting: “Decisions. Must be made. Tomorrow morning. 7:30 am Dubai. I’ll let you in on my answer and why.”
The message quickly fueled speculation among listeners, with many wondering whether the broadcaster was set to leave Dubai after nearly 19 years in the emirate.
On Monday morning, Fade announced that he had chosen to stay in the UAE, even after receiving what he called a “dream job” offer in his native Sydney.
“Nineteen years ago, I left Sydney, Australia. I packed up my life, took a chance, and moved to Dubai with little money but a dream and a lot of uncertainty,” he wrote in a detailed statement shared online.
“A month ago, I was offered my dream job back home in Sydney,” he added.
The Lebanese-Australian presenter said the choice was especially challenging as his family, childhood memories, and ageing parents are based in Australia.
“For the past few weeks, I’ve spent countless hours thinking, talking, negotiating, praying, and trying to figure out the right decision,” he wrote.
“And after all of that, I’ve made my choice. I’m staying. Dubai is home.”
Fade confirmed he has stepped away from the Sydney opportunity, thanking the Australian broadcaster and its management while expressing confidence in its future.
He said the decision ultimately reflected the life he has built in the UAE.
“Sometimes life isn’t about chasing the dream you had in your twenties. Sometimes it’s about recognizing the life you’ve built in your forties,” he wrote.
“When I looked around, I realized that everything I’ve worked so hard for is here. My family is here. My friends are here. My businesses are here. My team is here. My future is here.”
Fade also acknowledged ARN and Dubai Holding, describing them as more than just employers.
“Over nearly two decades, they’ve believed in me, backed me, challenged me, supported me, and allowed me to become the person I am today,” he wrote.
He also praised the UAE, highlighting its safety, opportunities, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit.
“I’ve travelled the world and been fortunate to see incredible places, but there is something special about the UAE,” he said.
“The vision of its leadership is unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed.”
The radio presenter thanked his Virgin Radio colleagues, including Priti Malik, Big Rossi, Nala, Laasya, and Jenny, describing the team as a family.
“What we have here is rare. It’s more than a radio show. It’s more than a workplace. It’s a family,” he wrote.
He also thanked listeners who have followed his journey over the years, adding:
“So while Sydney will always be home, and Australia will always be part of who I am, my heart told me my story here isn’t finished. Not yet.”
“After 19 years, I’m still here. And if you’ll have me, I’m not done yet. Let’s keep going.”
