A singer performing at a concert in Dubai caused controversy on Wednesday after defying the Gulf state’s anti-LGBT laws by kissing a male fan on the lips. (16th August 2019)

Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai has highlighted the hypocrisy of Abu Dhabi in its crackdowns on the LGBT community.

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"The UAE has built a tolerant, cosmopolitan image, but the laws continue to reflect the conservative, traditional values of the society. It is not uncommon for visitors to be confused about what is or is not acceptable behaviour," she said.

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However, even where homosexual acts are not criminalised in the Middle East, a largely conservative Muslim society where open displays of same-sex love and being transgender are severely frowned upon, homosexuals can often face harassment and abuse."

Radha Stirling comments on the apparent protest by The 1975’s singer Matthew Healy against Dubai’s anti-LGBTQ laws during local concert.​

"Homosexuality is illegal in the UAE, with punishments from serious jail terms all the way to a death sentence. Any expression of an LGBTQ identity, or of being in any sort of LGBTQ relationship is strictly forbidden in the Emirates. In recent years we have seen an Australian man report an assault to Dubai police, only to find himself charged with homosexuality, and sentenced to over a year imprisonment. Others have been arrested for «appearing» feminine in their clothing»."