Updated 8pm

Swedish DJ Avicii has died in Oman aged 28, his publicist has confirmed. 

"It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii," a representative for the DJ said in a statement. 

"He was found dead in Muscat, Oman, this Friday afternoon local time, 20 April. The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy at this difficult time." 

Avicii was one of the world's most popular DJs, earning two Grammy nominations and headlining some of the world's biggest music festivals. 

His death comes days after he was nominated for a Billboard Music Award for top dance/electronic album.

Avicii, who boasted two UK number ones, retired from touring in 2016 and has battled acute pancreatitis in the past and had his gallbladder and appendix removed in 2014.

"The scene was not for me," he had told Billboard magazine. "It was not the shows and not the music. It was always the other stuff surrounding it that never came naturally to me." 

Scottish DJ Calvin Harris was one of the first to pay tribute, calling his fellow musician a "beautiful soul".

He added: "My heart goes out to his family."

Pop star Dua Lipa tweeted: "Such sad news to hear about Avicii passing. Too young and way too soon. My condolences go out to his family, friends and fans x."

In a note announcing his retirement in 2016 he said: "I know I am blessed to be able to travel all around the world and perform, but I have too little left for the life of a real person behind the artist.

"I will however never let go of music - I will continue to speak to my fans through it, but I've decided this 2016 run will be my last tour and last shows."

He released his debut studio album, True, in 2013 and followed it up with Stories in 2015.