Beyoncé has faced criticism of ‘performative activism’ after being spotted shopping during a trip to Qatar.
The pop icon, 44, is in the country alongside her husband Jay-Z, where the pair have been seen taking in the sights.
The Texas Hold ‘Em hitmaker was snapped shopping in Doha, dressed in a black hijab and matching sunglasses as she browsed.
Queen Bey, who wrapped up her enormous Cowboy Carter world tour earlier this year, was almost unrecognisable as she walked around the YSL store in Place Vendôme Mall.
Many praised the artist for wearing a hijab in the Muslim country, with Ayyonce writing on X: ‘Beyoncé wearing abaya in Qatar is my new personality for the rest if the year … she is so humble and respectful to the culture and our religion oh my god.’
‘Ngl I was ready to let this account die, but why is Beyonce fully dressed in an abaya and hijab MOTHER IS MY TWIN WELCOME TO ISLAM HABIBIIIII’ 444starlvr added.
Sawsen posted: ‘Beyoncé in a full black abaya and hijab?? my muslim heart is literally crying rn she’s so respectful.’
Others, however, criticised the star for being in Qatar due to its anti-LGBTQ+ laws and various human rights abuses when it comes to the rights of women and girls, as well as migrant workers.
Selena Maris wrote on X: ‘Beyoncé shopping in Qatar the same place slammed for human rights abuses? Guess “activism” takes a break when luxury brands are involved. Celebs preach justice until the paycheck or photo op says otherwise.’
Clearwall3 added: ‘Wish we would stop romanticising these countries as luxury hubs when they profit off of literal slave labour.’
Elena said: ‘Beyoncé blending in like a black diamond in the desert, flawless. But Qatar’s sparkle comes with shadows; migrant workers deserve the spotlight too. Thoughts on celebs shopping ethically? Or are we seeing another case of “Good for Me, Not for Thee”?’
Others accused her of ‘performative activism’ after the Halo hitmaker previously expressed issues with gender equality and social justice in her music.
Meanwhile, Jay-Z was pictured during a meeting at the National Museum of Qatar, speaking to staff and enjoying exhibits exploring the country’s heritage and history.
In a post on Instagram, the caption read: ‘We’re happy to welcome Jay-Z to the National Museum of Qatar, where we shared the story of our nation’s rich heritage.’
David Beckham faced similar backlash when he took on the ambassadorship for the Qatar World Cup in 2022.
He defended the position, claiming he was told by members of the LGBTQ+ community that they felt safer in Qatar than they did at any other World Cup, leading to further backlash.
Things came to a head in December last year when comedian Joe Lycett had threatened to shred money if David did not pull out of his ambassadorship role; if he did pull out, the money would go to charity.
David remained in the ambassadorship and did not respond to Joe’s videos, leading to the comedian shredding what was purported to be £10,000 of his own money.
It was revealed, however, that Joe gave the money to LGBT charities, and what he had shredded instead was David’s iconic gay cover for gay lifestyle magazine Attitude.
Metro contacted Beyoncé‘s representative for comment.
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