Rihanna cancels concert

May 5, 2009, 11:10 GMT

Concert organiser Yassin Matbouly confirmed: "We want to share with you that Rihanna and her management will not hold a public concert at this time as it is not appropriate timing." Gilbert / PR Photos

Rihanna has cancelled her comeback concert.

The 'Umbrella' singer was due to perform in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) later this month, but has decided she is not ready to take to the stage.

Concert organiser Yassin Matbouly confirmed: "We want to share with you that Rihanna and her management will not hold a public concert at this time as it is not appropriate timing."

The show was to be Rihanna's first public performance since she was allegedly assaulted by on/off boyfriend Chris Brown on February 8.

Yassin, who previously told fans to expect an extravagant show from the 21-year-old singer, hasn't given up hope the star will perform in the future.

He revealed: "Rihanna's management contacted us and explained she was unable to come to the UAE in May, but said she is keen to still perform in the region.

"It is very sad for us at this time knowing the concert will not happen, but we will not give up and we will continue to put our offer to Rihanna's management for a future date."

Meanwhile, Rihanna has made her first public appearance since the alleged assault.

The star attended New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual Costume Institute Gala yesterday (04.05.09).

Rihanna wore a fitted tuxedo suit to the party, and sported slicked back hair with blonde highlights.