Zayn Malik has been forced to cancel an upcoming appearance in Dubai because of his "extreme anxiety". The former One Direction band member, who left the group last year, admitted he was lacking the confidence to perform on his own.
Zayn, 23, was due to sing at a one-off gig at Dubai's Autism Rocks Arena on 7 October.
In a statement addressed to fans, he wrote: "I have been working over the last three months to overcome my extreme anxiety around major live solo performances. I feel I am making progress but I have today acknowledged that I do not feel sufficiently confident to move forward with the planned show in Dubai in October."
© Photo: Getty ImagesZayn Malik said he wasn't feeling "sufficiently confident" to perform
"I am assured that all tickets will be refunded," he added. "I am truly sorry to disappoint you. I hope to see you all soon. Thank you to all my fans who support me globally.
"With love and respect always, Zayn."
Thomas Ovesen, CEO of event organisers 117Live, wrote in response: "Whilst disappointed not to be hosting the planned Oct 7 Dubai concert, we appreciate Zayn's honest apologies and wish him all the best for the future."
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe 23-year-old with his girlfriend Gigi Hadid
Back in June, Zayn pulled out of the Capital Summertime Ball in London on the day of the show, again due to anxiety. He said that he was suffering "the worst anxiety of my career".
The Pillowtalk singer surprised fans when he left One Direction in March last year. At the time Zayn said he wanted to feel "like a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight".
He had been signed off for stress during the band's world tour.
