UAE refutes claims that R.Kelly was invited by the royal family to perform in the country

The UAE has strongly denied claims American singer R.Kelly was invited to the UAE on the request of the royal family to perform this April.

The artist is currently embroiled in a high-profile sex abuse scandal in the US, his passport has been surrendered and legally he cannot leave the country without permission.

On Friday, he put forward a request to travel, referencing three shows at UAE venues from April 17 to April 19, these engagements were arranged prior to his legal battle and he cited financial issues as reason to travel.

The Dubai Government has strongly deny any involvement in these concerts

Initial reports in international press linked his visit the royal family, however according to reports in Rolling Stone and AP News, Dubai Media Office denies any concerts have been planned.

“Authorities in Dubai have not received any request for a performance by singer R. Kelly nor are there any venues that have been booked.”

It confirmed R.Kelly had not been invited to the UAE by the royal family, stating Kelly “has not been invited by the Dubai royal family for a performance”.

According to AP News, Kelly's lawyer stated “Mr. Kelly had a signed contract with a legitimate promoter, and any information that was included in the motion to travel was from that contract. We did not say he was invited by The royal family, but the contract did provide that he would make himself available to meet with them.”

It's worth mentioning international artists are regularly booked to visit Dubai and it's possible these alleged show dates are linked to an independent promoter with no involvement with the royal family.


Culled From Lovin Dubai.