Rita Ora becomes first-ever female cover shoot for Esquire Middle East

Superstar singer Rita Ora graces the cover of Esquire Middle East's new October issue, becoming the first-ever female cover star for the region's leading men's magazine brand.

In a detailed interview and powerful photoshoot, the singer – whose new album Phoenix will be released on November 23 – spoke to exclusively to Esquire on a variety of subjects from why it has taken her so long to release her sophomore album to female empowerment and #MeToo.

Ora – who also performed live last month at the Esquire Middle East’s 100th issue party in Dubai – also spoke about how she was proud to off her raunchy image to the public. “I find it very empowering. I love being in tune with my body, and I don’t see me being sexy as a form of disrespect to other people or my upbringing. It is a form of freedom of expression.” She added:  “You know, men also show off their body’s on Instagram and people don’t give them as much sh*t.”

She also urged men to be more supportive of the #MeToo movement through “actions” not words, saying: “I do like seeing men stressing about what they can and can’t say these days!.. But in all honesty, it’s more about actions, not words. It’s about being supportive of progressive change, even it means just being there. Sure, if you feel it’s the right thing to do then speak up, but the key is to show support in whatever way you can.”

Matthew Baxter-Priest, Editor in Chief of Esquire Middle East, said: “As the leading men’s brand in the Gulf to reach 100 issues, it felt right for a change. Since our first issue, the role of men has evolved, in our tastes, in our attitudes and, most importantly, in our understanding of our place in the world.

In the privileged position that we have here at Esquire, it is our duty to steer the conversation and culture towards a positive, all-inclusive direction, one that celebrates the achievements of people regardless of gender."