Some chase success, while others create it. Chadi Khalaf is one of those rare individuals who refuses to be boxed into a single career path. A TV host, actor, entrepreneur, and event visionary, Chadi is redefining the entertainment and events industry across the Arab world. With an unstoppable drive, a go-getter spirit, and the belief that the sky’s the limit, Chadi Khalaf is proof that those who relentlessly chase their dreams can turn every door into an opportunity.
We sat down with Chadi to talk about his journey from Lebanese television personality to a recognized face in the UAE and across the Arab world, his latest career ventures, and what keeps him moving forward.
From Humble Beginnings: Chadi Khalaf’s Early Journey in Media
Chadi’s passion for media started at a very young age. “I’ve always felt at home in front of the camera,” he shares. His journey began when he was just seven years old on Lebanon’s Future TV, and soon after, I started acting in commercials. These early experiences led him to discover a passion for storytelling, performance, and communication.
In 2013, Chadi officially entered the media world as a presenter on Télé Liban’s Morning Show, Sabah Lebnen. He hosted the segments Sign In and Design, alongside his co-host Rita Açaf.
A few years later, in 2017, he joined MTV Lebanon and became part of popular shows such as Hashtag, MTV Alive, and others. These experiences sharpened his hosting skills and gave him a platform to connect with wider audiences. “It was an incredible learning experience,” Chadi recalls, “being part of such a reputable station and working with visionary producers and teams under the avant-garde leadership of Mr. Michel El Murr.”
Breaking Into the UAE: A Landmark Moment at Expo 2020
Chadi’s breakthrough in the UAE came when he had the opportunity to host, produce, and present a documentary series for Expo 2020, alongside his co-host Rita El-Hage. The series, produced in collaboration with Studiovision, introduced him to a wider international audience and opened doors to new opportunities across the region. “It was a pivotal moment in my career. Being part of such a historic event felt surreal,” he says.
His role at Expo 2020 not only elevated his professional profile but also solidified his presence in the UAE. Chadi quickly became a familiar name across the GCC, cementing his reputation as a sought-after host.
TV Hosting: More Than Just a Job—It’s a Passion
Hosting has been a major part of Chadi’s career, but for him, it’s far more than just a job. “It’s my passion,” he admits. “Television gave me a voice, and I’ve always believed in using that voice to tell other people’s stories.”
Chadi is deeply drawn to real moments, authentic emotions, and powerful narratives that leave a lasting impact on viewers. “I see hosting as a form of empathy and connection,” he explains. “It’s about building bridges between people; telling stories that make us think, laugh, cry, and ultimately connect on a deeper level.”
His ultimate goal is to become a storyteller for this generation: someone who sparks meaningful conversations, shares impactful stories, and brings people closer together through the screen.
A New Milestone: Chadi Khalaf as the Face of the UAE’s Official Lottery
Chadi recently reached another milestone by becoming the face of the UAE’s official lottery—the first and only federally licensed lottery in the United Arab Emirates, and the first of its kind in the Gulf region. Regulated by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) and operated by The Game LLC (The Game), the initiative marks a major development in the region’s entertainment landscape. “It’s an incredible honor,” Chadi says, “to be part of such a groundbreaking project.”
Co-hosting alongside Diala Makki, Chadi plays a key role in bringing this initiative to life. The opportunity has further solidified his presence in the UAE and allowed him to contribute to a historic moment in regional entertainment.
Social Media Influence: Merging Digital and Traditional Media
As a highly influential figure, Chadi has built a strong presence on social media. “Social media changed everything,” he acknowledges. “It’s a space where influence meets impact.” For Chadi, digital platforms offer a unique opportunity to connect, engage, and inspire a global audience.
Yet despite the rise of social media, Chadi remains a firm believer in the power of television. “Television will always remain the most credible and structured medium. It’s where deep, meaningful storytelling happens,” he shares.
Chadi sees the future of media not as a choice between digital and television, but as a fusion of both. “When combined, they amplify each other—digital brings reach, and TV brings weight. That’s where I thrive—at the intersection of these two worlds.”
Architecture Meets Media: A Unique Blend of Creativity
Chadi’s journey is also influenced by his background in architecture. He holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in architecture and graduated at the top of his class. Though he didn’t pursue a traditional career in architecture, the skills and creativity he developed have shaped his approach to media and event design.
“Architecture taught me to think big, to design with purpose,” Chadi reflects. “Those skills have been instrumental in how I approach my media work and my latest venture into event design.”
Revolutionizing the Event Industry: Chadi Khalaf’s New Venture
Building on his architectural expertise and media background, Chadi is launching his own event and communication agency. The agency promises a unique, design-driven approach to immersive, holistic events—blending creativity, technology, and storytelling in ways not seen before.
“We see events as stories in motion,” Chadi explains. “It’s not just about organizing an event; it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience that resonates emotionally.”
With a foundation in both architecture and media, Chadi aims to disrupt the event industry by setting a new standard—one that is bold, immersive, and deeply impactful.
Venturing Into Acting: Chadi Khalaf’s New Passion
In addition to his work as a TV host and event designer, Chadi is also making strides in the world of acting. “Acting is something I’ve always been drawn to, and now I’m taking it seriously,” he says. He has already participated in multiple projects and is now positioning himself for prominent roles in major TV productions.
“I see acting as another form of storytelling,” he adds. “It’s about bringing characters to life and telling stories that matter.”
Chadi’s ambition is to establish himself as a respected actor across the Arab world. He is committed to exploring diverse, meaningful roles that resonate with audiences and spark important conversations.
The Drive to Keep Evolving: Chadi Khalaf’s Unstoppable Ambition
For Chadi, success is not just about waiting for opportunities—it’s about creating them. “Life is a race, and I don’t wait for opportunities to come to me,” he asserts. “I chase them. I knock on doors, create my own chances, and believe that with hard work, nothing is out of reach.”
Chadi’s relentless ambition and drive are what continue to push him forward. He is a firm believer that anyone can succeed if they have the right mindset. “I want to inspire young Arabs to dream fearlessly and pursue their goals with everything they’ve got. Your background doesn’t define you; your ambition does,” he says. “If you believe in yourself and show up with purpose, success will follow.”
Whether he’s hosting a television show, curating an unforgettable event, sharing moments with his social media followers, or stepping into a new role on screen, Chadi leads with passion and purpose. “This is who I am. A dreamer, a doer, a disruptor, and a storyteller.”
And the story? It’s just getting started.
Do follow him on Instagram.
