Zara Larsson says she won’t perform at Abu Dhabi show after Sudan concerns

Zara Larsson has said she will not perform at her scheduled Abu Dhabi show after a fan urged her to cancel the concert over the United Arab Emirates’ alleged involvement in the war in Sudan.

The Swedish singer was due to perform at Etihad Live on Yas Island on December 3 as part of the Yasalam After Race Concert series during Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend. A fan commented on Larsson’s Instagram post, asking her to “read about what UAE is doing to Sudan then cancel your Abu Dhabi show”.

Larsson replied, “I will not be going to Abu Dhabi,” alongside a heart emoji. Both comments were later deleted from Instagram.

Larsson later offered a longer explanation, acknowledging that her initial response may have appeared impulsive. She said she wants to perform for people around the world because “no single person is their government”, but added that after considering the situation, not performing in Abu Dhabi felt right to her at the moment for “many different personal reasons beyond politics”.

The controversy centres on allegations that the UAE has supported Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during the country’s ongoing conflict. The UAE has denied providing military support to either side.

Despite Larsson’s comments, her December 3 performance remains listed on Ticketmaster alongside Lewis Capaldi, meaning there has not yet been a formal cancellation announcement from the event organisers or Larsson’s team.

The Abu Dhabi appearance was announced as part of the Grand Prix’s after-race concert series, with Larsson and Capaldi scheduled for December 3.