Saudi Arabia to take part in the Miss Universe pageant

Rumy Alqahtani becoming the country's inaugural representative

The 27-year-old model, hails from Riyadh

Saudi Arabia has officially entered the Miss Universe pageant with Rumy Alqahtani becoming the country’s inaugural representative.

The 27-year-old model, hailing from Riyadh, shared the news on Instagram, marking a significant step for the conservative Islamic nation. This development underscores Saudi Arabia’s ongoing transformation under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.

Rumy Alqahtani’s announcement on Instagram marks Saudi Arabia’s debut in the Miss Universe competition. Known for her participation in global beauty pageants, Alqahtani recently took part in the Miss and Mrs Global Asian contest in Malaysia.

The participation of Saudi Arabia, historically known for its strict conservatism, reflects the kingdom’s evolving social landscape. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aged 38 and an enthusiastic ‘Call of Duty’ player, has been instrumental in spearheading these changes. Despite Saudi Arabia’s historically stringent social and religious controls, recent months have witnessed a notable relaxation of these norms.

This transformation includes lifting bans on women driving, attending mixed-gender events, and applying for passports without male guardianship. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has made headlines by allowing non-Muslim diplomats to purchase alcohol, a departure from its long-standing alcohol prohibition. The kingdom’s embrace of global platforms like the Miss Universe pageant signals its increasing openness to international engagement and cultural exchange.