KUALA LUMPUR – In an unprecedented move, Saudi Arabia is sending its own representative to the coming Miss Universe 2024 competition.
The 27-year-old model, Rumy Alqahtani, will be the first Saudi woman to participate in the pageant’s history, local news media reported.
She was selected based on her experience as a veteran in beauty contests, having previously been crowned Miss Saudi Arabia, Miss Middle East, Miss Arab World Peace and Miss Woman (Saudi Arabia).
She has also previously represented Saudi Arabia in various international competitions, including Miss Asia in Malaysia, Miss Arab Peace and Miss Europe.
In an Instagram post, Alqahtani expressed her honour at being selected to compete in this year’s Miss Universe.
“I am honoured to participate in the Miss Universe 2024 competition. This marks the first participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe pageant.”
According to her biography, Rumy holds a bachelor’s degree in dentistry and is proficient in Arabic, French and English. She has a passion for travelling and enjoys discovering new destinations, which is evident from her active presence on social media, where she shares her trips.
This year’s Miss Universe pageant will be the 73rd instalment and will be held in Mexico, where the 2023 Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua, is slated to crown her successor at the end of the event.
At the same time, Iran and Somalia will also be represented for the first time, with Iranian fashion designer Sonia Beytoushi and Somali-American model Halima Aden serving as representatives for their respective countries. – March 29, 2024