Diplomatic talks affect concerts by Russian artists in Dubai
Recent discussions between Russian diplomats and UAE officials have emerged concerning the potential cancellation of a Bi-2 band concert set to take place in Dubai. Reports from Puree indicate that the authorities are weighing whether permission will be granted to stage the event, or if it will be cancelled altogether. The concert was scheduled for February 17. Observers note that authorities have pledged closer scrutiny of artists who have left Russia, suggesting future checks may be more stringent.
In late December, a separate Dubai event involving Zemfira, a singer who has been designated a foreign agent by Russia, was cancelled. The cancellation was attributed to circumstances beyond the control of both the artist and the organizers, and the show was planned for December 23 at the Madinat Jumeirah Hotel.
On January 13, officials acknowledged that rapper Oksimiron could be barred from performing in Dubai because of anti-Russian statements made during a recent performance at a venue in the Arab world. Earlier in November 2023, Dubai also restricted Morgenstern, another rapper labeled a foreign agent in Russia, from organizing concerts. In related matters, Maxim Galkin was fined 100,000 dirhams (about 2.4 million rubles) for a performance that included a pro-Ukrainian slogan.
Leva, formerly with Bi-2, stated that he would not return to Russia.