For the first time, Saudi Arabia participates in the Miss Universe pageant!

Saudi Arabia is taking another step towards modernity by sending a representative to the Miss Universe pageant for the first time. Romy Al-Qahtani, 29, a trained dentist, will represent the Kingdom during this international beauty pageant to be held in Mexico next September.

Al-Qahtani announced the news on social media: “The first participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe pageant,” she wrote, expressing gratitude for the support received: “My heart is full of gratitude to all my friends around the world. This the support made me happy. I hope to be up to the task and I’m happy to be the first young Saudi woman to represent my country (I love you).”

This decision is part of the reforms promoted by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to modernize the country and promote women’s rights. In recent years, Saudi women have gained the right to drive (June 2018), enter sports stadiums (June 2018), and a Saudi astronaut was even sent into space as part of the Ax-2 mission by Axiom in May 2023.

Romy Al-Qahtani, winner of the Miss Saudi Arabia 2021 and Miss Arab 2022 titles, is a regular at beauty pageants. She stood out for her commitment to the environment, social issues and women’s empowerment.

The editors/Le7tv