Zayn Malik has cancelled a performance in Dubai because of issues with anxiety. The Bradford-born singer, who was meant to perform at the show on October 7, wrote a note to fans to apologise for pulling out.

“I have been working over the last three months to overcome my extreme anxiety around major live solo performances,” he said. “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.”

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.”

The 23-year-old previously cancelled an appearance at the Capital Summertime Ball just before he was due to play in June. In an open letter, he explained how his anxiety and mental health had gotten the best of him.

Writing on Instagram following his cancelled London show, he previously said: “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.”

Thomas Ovesen, CEO of event organisers 117Live, told fans: “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. 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.”

Last week, singer Selena Gomez announced she was taking a break from music because of her issues with mental health, affected by her battle with immune system-threatening disease lupus.

“I’ve discovered that anxiety, panic attacks and depression can be side effects of lupus, which can present their own challenges,” she told toofab.

“I want to be proactive and focus on maintaining my health and happiness and have decided that the best way forward is to take some time off. Thank you to all my fans for your support.”