24 years old Mohammed Assaf, popular for winning Palestinian and Arab Idol title cancelled his performance in Abu Dhabi. The singer took the decision due to prolonged Gaza Conflict. The famous singer was expected to perform at the Arab star showcase concert at Emirates Palace. In this concert Assaf was expected to perform for fellow Gazan.
Due to the cancellation, Emirates Palace has released a statement confirming the event to be postponed for a later date. Assaf announced his no-show on Facebook last night.
“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,” he said. “I look forward to performing for my fans in Abu Dhabi in the near future.”
Both Al Dairi and El Bayed will take part in the new date, which they were told will be towards the end of the month. According to El Bayed, organizers are seeking a new singer to round off the bill.
Al Dairi, who is a friend of Assaf, confirmed the singer was deeply affected by the latest Israeli army assault on Gaza. “He is very close to me like my brother,” he said. “I would like to tell him that you need to be strong to face the real face of the world. We all love you. Your courage will inspire the youngster of Arab World to work even in the extreme conditions.”
Where other Arab stars hide their national allegiances to broaden their appeal, Assaf has always showcased his Palestinian patriotism. His sets are infused with famous Palestinian dabkas (folk songs) and he is often seen on stage wearing the checkered national scarf, the keffiyeh.
Amidst the heavy bombardment of Gaza last month, Assaf released a new song in support of Gaza’s besieged residents. Translated to Raise Your Head, he urged his countrymen to “lift your head high, it’s your weapon.”
In an interview with The National last year, he said one of his career aims was to raise awareness of the Palestinian struggle. “I can never forget what my people are going through every day,” he said. “I want to help my people and want to end their sufferings. I know how it feels to live in refugee camps without even basic facilities. I am trying to use my popularity and fame to bring in justice for Palestinians.”
Assaf has next performance in the month of November in Yas Island for F1 concert. In the upcoming concert, Assaf is expected to share the stage with Egypt’s Tamer Hosny, Lebanon’s Carole Samaha and Emirati singer Fayez al Saeed.
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