Nicki Minaj has pulled out of headlining a music festival in Saudi Arabia over her support for the rights of women and the LGBTQ community.
The US rapper was set to top the bill at Jeddah World Fest on July 18 but there was backlash over her planned appearance from human rights groups.
Announcing her decision, Minaj said it was important to “make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression”.
A statement from the Starships singer read: "While I want nothing more than to bring my show to fans in Saudi Arabia, after better educating myself on the issues, I believe it is important for me to make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression.”
The New York-based Human Rights Foundation (HRF) last week urged Minaj to cancel her performance. It said her appearance would be at odds with the rapper's participation in festivities in New York marking Gay Pride month in June.
Homosexuality is banned in Saudi Arabia.
On Tuesday, HRF Chief Executive Thor Halvorssen welcomed Minaj's change of heart, praising her "inspiring and thoughtful decision to reject the Saudi regime’s transparent attempt at using her for a public relations stunt."
Saudi officials last week said the Jeddah World Fest would be the region's biggest ever live musical event.
Other announced performers include former One Direction British singer Liam Payne and American DJ Steve Aoki.
Agencies contributed to this report
