Saudi Arabia May Have Its First Miss Universe Contestant This Year

The Miss Universe Organization is currently going through a rigorous vetting process to qualify a potential candidate for the Saudi Arabia franchise. Maria Jose Unda, the organization’s coordinator of international relations, mentioned in a statement to AFP that a decision on the National Director for Saudi Arabia will be made very soon. It is possible for Saudi Arabia to have a contestant in place before the next edition of the competition, scheduled for September in Mexico.

The statement came after Saudi model Rumy al-Qahtani created a buzz online by posting on Instagram that she was “honored” to represent Saudi Arabia at Miss Universe. Miss Universe then issued a statement, referring to Qahtani’s post as “false and misleading,” stating that no selection process had been carried out in the Gulf kingdom. If Saudi Arabia fielded a Miss Universe candidate, it would signify another step in the country’s efforts to soften its ultra-conservative image.

This is part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s attempts to attract tourists and investors. Although some restrictions on women have been lifted, human rights activists argue that a personal status law implemented in 2022 still discriminates against women in matters concerning marriage, divorce, and child-rearing. Negotiations for Qahtani to represent Saudi Arabia at Miss Universe are ongoing, and she expressed hope that they would result in a favorable outcome.

The procedure calls for a national director to hold a Miss Universe Saudi Arabia pageant to choose a delegate to send to Mexico. Qahtani has faced unexpected questions about Saudi Arabia during her bid in the beauty pageant world and has received criticism from more conservative Saudis. However, she remains committed to her decision and hopes to inspire other girls to participate.

Rumy’s mother, Fawzia Ayed, hopes her daughter will persevere despite the criticism and serve as an inspiration to other girls.