Tyrese meets fans in Abu Dhabi

At least 450 fans heeded Tyrese Gibson’s call on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi.

The actor and singer — famous for his role in 2015’s biggest movie, Furious 7, sent out an open invitation to fans to meet him at his hotel in the UAE capital at 2pm.

“The idea came from a comment that a couple of the fans have made... when I come here I don’t go to a lot of clubs and parties, I’m not connecting with the people I love and that have embraced me, and this was my opportunity to say thank you to everyone.”

Fans, some carrying DVD copies of the film, showed up early to join the queue for their chance to meet their idol, who is a regular visitor to the UAE (he even celebrated his birthday on December 30 in Dubai) and goes by the name Tyrese. He also had a No 1 album last year with Black Rose.

Wearing an olive green khandoura, his clothing of choice when staying in the UAE, he appeared to be very much in charge of the event himself, telling people where to stand and asking them to come calmly as he “doesn’t have 10 bodyguards”.

He spent two hours posing for pictures and signing autographs, and is due to leave the UAE on Wednesday.

“This is my appreciation, this is all for free, I am not making any money, no-one is being charged to come in,” he added.

“They all follow me on Instagram, on social media, and you’re witnessing the power of social media. This was only two days ago and this is the turnout. I’m very grateful."