Mohammed Assaf's Abu Dhabi concert postponed over Gaza conflict

Gazan singer Mohammed Assaf has cancelled his concert in Abu Dhabi, scheduled for tomorrow, in solidarity over the Gaza conflict.

The singer who shot to fame and won a million hearts after his landslide victory on reality TV show, Arab Idol, posted a statement on his Facebook page, confirming the news, saying: “Due to the current political crisis in Gaza, I deeply regret that I will be unable to perform at the Arab Stars Showcase at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi on Thursday August 14.

“I look forward to performing for my fans in Abu Dhabi in the near future.”

In the Arabic version of his statement, Assaf also states that he is cancelling all his activities over the conflict.

The Arab Stars Showcase was to feature Assaf alongside fellow Gazan and speed painter Mohammed Al Dairi, along with Saudi Arabian illusionist Ahmed El Bayed.

In lieu of Assaf pulling out, Emirates Palace issued a statement confirming the show itself has been now postponed to a later date.

In a statement, they stated: “Emirates Palace regrets the cancellation of Mohammed Assaf from the Arab Stars Showcase. We are postponing the Arab Stars Showcase that was scheduled for August 14.

“More information will be shared at a later stage. Meanwhile, for ticket enquires people can contact 800 86 823.”

A spokesperson from the hotel also confirmed with Emirates24|7 that those holding special hospitality packages for the event are being contacted and have been offered alternatives, to either postpone the night stay with the new date of the concert or continuing to stay at the hotel with a special package designed.

Assaf is also scheduled to perform in Abu Dhabi on November 20, alongside Arab music stars Tamer Hosny, Carole Samaha and Emirati singer Fayez Al Saeed at the du Arena, Yas Island on Thursday as part of the first night of the 6th annual Yasalam After-Race Concert weekend for the 2014 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that runs from November 21-23 at Yas Marina Circuit.

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