Zara Larsson Reportedly Cancels Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Concert Over Sudan War Concerns

Mumbai, 20^th September 2026: Zara Larsson has said she will not perform at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in December, after fans urged the Swedish pop star to reconsider her appearance over concerns linked to the war in Sudan. Swedish pop star Zara Larsson has reportedly pulled out of her scheduled Abu Dhabi Grand Prix concert, following online pressure from fans over the United Arab Emirates’ alleged involvement in the conflict in Sudan. Larsson was due to perform alongside Lewis Capaldi on December 3 as part of the Yasalam After-Race Concerts at Etihad Live on Yas Island.

The situation began after a fan commented on Larsson’s Instagram asking her to “read about what UAE is doing to Sudan then cancel your Abu Dhabi show.” Larsson replied that she would not be going to Abu Dhabi, although both the fan’s comment and her response were later deleted. She subsequently offered a longer explanation, saying “I wanna perform and spread joy and music for people in every country, because no single person is their government,” she wrote. “I’ve met so many wonderful people from every corner of the world and I know this to be true in my heart”. She further stated, “Maybe it came off as a impulsive response to a comment, but I have spent some time thinking about everything and decided that to not do the show aligns with me the most right now, 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 war. The UAE has denied providing military support to either side of the conflict. Larsson’s comments have nevertheless sparked questions around the December concert and whether her appearance will be removed from the official programme. Larsson’s reported withdrawal comes during a busy period for the singer. Her latest era has included Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, featuring collaborations with artists including PinkPantheress, Shakira, Tyla, Robyn and Madison Beer, while her recent festival run has included a surprise appearance from PinkPantheress during her All Points East set.