Global superstar Beyoncé, 44, has once again captured the internet’s attention—this time not for her music, but for her attire. The Texas Hold ’Em hitmaker was photographed in Doha, Qatar, wearing a black hijab and matching abaya as she shopped at the luxury Yves Saint Laurent store in Place Vendôme Mall. Accompanied by her husband Jay-Z, the couple appeared relaxed as they explored the Middle Eastern city, where they are reportedly enjoying a brief vacation following Beyoncé’s blockbuster Cowboy Carter world tour.
While the Grammy-winning icon is known for her bold fashion choices and cultural awareness, this latest public appearance ignited an intense online debate—balancing admiration with criticism.
Social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), quickly filled with praise for Beyoncé’s decision to wear traditional Muslim attire. Many Muslim fans expressed pride and gratitude, viewing her gesture as a sign of cultural sensitivity and respect.
User @Ayyonce wrote, “Beyoncé wearing abaya in Qatar is my new personality for the rest of the year… she is so humble and respectful to the culture and our religion, oh my God.”
Another fan, @444starlvr, tweeted: “Not gonna lie, I was ready to let this account die, but why is Beyoncé fully dressed in an abaya and hijab? MOTHER IS MY TWIN—welcome to Islam, habibiiii!”
Others echoed similar sentiments, celebrating her for honouring local customs rather than standing out. “Beyoncé in a full black abaya and hijab? My Muslim heart is literally crying right now, she’s so respectful,” posted @Sawsen.
For many admirers, the images represented something larger than a fashion statement—they were seen as a moment of cultural connection, proving that even one of the world’s biggest pop icons could show humility and adaptability when visiting another country’s traditions.
Beyoncé Sparks Debate After Wearing Hijab During Qatar Visit
However, the reaction wasn’t entirely positive. A significant number of users criticised Beyoncé’s presence in Qatar, a nation long accused of human rights abuses, anti-LGBTQ+ laws, and poor treatment of migrant workers.
User @SelenaMaris wrote: “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.”
Others went further, accusing the star of hypocrisy given her past advocacy for gender equality, social justice, and Black empowerment. “Wish we would stop romanticising these countries as luxury hubs when they profit off literal slave labour,” said @Clearwall3, while another user, Elena, added, “Beyoncé blending in like a black diamond in the desert—flawless. But Qatar’s sparkle comes with shadows. Migrant workers deserve the spotlight too.”
The debate drew attention to the recurring question of celebrity ethics—whether artists who champion equality and justice should visit or promote countries with controversial human rights records.
Meanwhile, Jay-Z appeared to take a different route during the trip. The rapper and business mogul visited the National Museum of Qatar, where he engaged with curators and staff to learn about the nation’s history and cultural evolution. The museum later shared photos of the visit on Instagram, writing: “We’re happy to welcome Jay-Z to the National Museum of Qatar, where we shared the story of our nation’s rich heritage.”
Still, critics pointed out that Jay-Z’s public engagement could not entirely offset concerns about their presence in the Gulf state. The couple’s trip reignited memories of similar controversies, most notably surrounding David Beckham’s role as ambassador for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Beckham, who faced criticism for aligning with the Qatari government despite its restrictive laws on same-sex relationships, defended his decision at the time. He claimed that some members of the LGBTQ+ community had told him they felt safer at that World Cup than at any previous one—an explanation that did little to quell backlash.
The issue reached its peak when British comedian Joe Lycett famously challenged Beckham to withdraw from his ambassador role or face a public stunt. When Beckham remained silent, Lycett appeared to shred £10,000 in protest. Later, he revealed that he had donated the money to LGBTQ+ charities and had, in fact, shredded a symbolic item—Beckham’s Attitude Magazine cover, a publication celebrating gay icons.
Beyoncé’s Qatar photos have now become the latest flashpoint in the ongoing global conversation about celebrity responsibility, cultural respect, and ethical travel.
While some see her modest attire as an example of cultural sensitivity, others argue that true awareness involves acknowledging and challenging the inequalities that exist in the places celebrities choose to visit or promote.
Still, even amid criticism, there’s no denying Beyoncé’s influence. Her ability to spark conversation—whether about music, identity, or ethics—remains unmatched. In Doha, draped in black fabric and framed by golden light, she once again proved that wherever she goes, the world will always be watching.
Source- Metro
