Zayn Malik has pulled out of a gig next month due to "extreme anxiety".
The ‘Pillowtalk’ hitmaker had been scheduled to perform at the Autism Rocks Arena in Dubai on October 7, but despite working hard to overcome his problems, he doesn’t feel "sufficiently confident" to take to the stage for the show.
In a statement posted on the 117 live website, he said: "Dear Fans, 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.
"I am assured that all tickets will be refunded.
"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."
Event organisers are "disappointed" that the show has been cancelled, but sent their best wishes to the singer.
117Live CEO Thomas Ovesen said: "Whilst disappointed not to be hosting the planned Oct 7th. Dubai concert we appreciate Zayn’s honest apologies and wish him all the best for the future. We will be looking forward to sharing more of Zayn’s plans with his Middle East fans when we have such information and will now get the ticket refund process started!! See you all at our other events at the Autism Rocks Arena!"
This isn’t the first time Zayn’s anxiety has caused him to scrap a gig.
In June, he was due to perform his first UK gig since leaving One Direction at the Capital FM Summertime Ball in London but pulled out at the last minute.
He said at the time: "I flew into the UK last night to appear in my home country in front of my family, friends, and most importantly my UK fans.
"Unfortunately my anxiety that has haunted me throughout the last few months around live performances has gotten the better of me… with the magnitude of the event I have suffered the worst anxiety of my career. I cannot apologise enough but I want to be honest with everyone who has patiently waited to see me, I promise I will do my best to make this up to everybody I’ve let down today
"I know those who suffer anxiety will understand and I hope those who don’t can empathises with my situation."
Zayn Malik scraps gig due to anxiety
