Rihanna Ordered Out Of Abu Dhabi Mosque
Pop star Rihanna was asked to leave Abu Dhabi's Sheikh
Zayed Grand Mosque over the weekend after an "inappropriate" photoshoot
in the grounds of the complex.
She later posted images to photo sharing site Instagram.
The mosque, located in the United Arab Emirates capital, is one of the world's largest Muslim places of worship.
In a statement on its website, the mosque said the Barbadian star had not sought permission for the photoshoot.
"The singer entered on a private visit without introducing herself and without prior coordination with the administration," it said.
It also specifically referenced her inappropriate conduct.
"She was asked to leave before entering the mosque after she posed in ways that do not match the (mosque's) sacred status."
The mosque said it was important that no visitor "fails to meet the standards of decency required to enter the mosque, such as by posing for inappropriate photographs or by sitting in disrespectful positions."
The photoshoot also gained some hostile reaction on the singer’s Instagram account.
"She thinks she's sunbathing on a beach in Miami!" said one comment in Arabic.
However, others felt Rihanna was respectful in her decision to cover up and wear a headscarf.
"Thanks for your respect to our religion... you take your time to wear the traditional dress... And the pictures are beautiful not insulting," said another person who commented.
Rihanna was visiting Abu Dhabi as part of her 'Diamonds' world tour.