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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
World
Ramazani Mwamba

Beyoncé under fire from LGBT groups after Dubai Atlantis concert

Beyoncé has been criticised for her comeback performance in Dubai. The megastar performed a medley of songs at the launch of the Atlantis The Royal, which is being billed as world’s most luxurious hotel.

According to reports, Beyoncé was paid a whopping $24 million (£19.3 million) for the gig which saw her perform 19 tracks - including a duet with her 11-year-old daughter Blue-Ivy.

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Despite a no-phone policy at the venue, footage from the exclusive show has been leaked online.

The superstar - who was performing for the first time since 2018 - is said to have not sang any songs from her latest album Renaissance which pays homage to a number of black and queer dance music pioneers.

Beyoncé has since been accused of casting "a shadow over her support for lesbians and gay people" in the country where homosexuality is illegal.

Co-founder of LGB Alliance, Bev Jackson told The Telegraph: "Beyoncé is a huge icon for many gay people.

"LGB Alliance is deeply therefore disappointed that Beyoncé has agreed to give a lucrative concert in Dubai, where same-sex sex acts are a criminal offence, potentially punishable by death."

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This isn't the first time an entertainment icon was criticised for working in a middle eastern country where homosexuality is illegal. Last year, comedian Joe Lycett appeared to shred £10,000 after David Beckham didn't respond to his ultimatum to pull out of his role as an ambassador at the Qatar World Cup.

In Qatar, homosexuality is illegal and anyone found participating in same-sex sexual activity can be punished with up to seven years in prison. While in Dubai - which is part of the United Arab Emirates, homosexuality is illegal under Sharia law and those taking part in consensual sodomy (anal sex) can face up to 10 years behind bars.

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