Saudi Arabia is on the cusp of a historic first: sending a delegate to compete in the Miss Universe pageant. This potential milestone comes amid the kingdom's ongoing social reforms, which have loosened restrictions on women's rights in recent years.
The possibility of Saudi Arabian participation gained momentum in late March when model Rumy al-Qahtani announced on social media her alleged selection as the country's representative. While the Miss Universe Organization has yet to officially confirm al-Qahtani's appointment, they did acknowledge they are in the process of finalizing a national director for Saudi Arabia, opening the door for a delegate this year.
The potential debut of a Saudi contestant at Miss Universe would be a significant marker of progress for the country. The pageant, known for its focus on beauty and glamour, has traditionally been viewed as incompatible with Saudi Arabia's conservative social norms. However, the kingdom has undergone a period of significant change under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with increased emphasis on women's empowerment. Reforms have included allowing women to drive, attend sporting events, and travel abroad without a male guardian's permission.
Inclusion in Miss Universe would likely be embraced by many Saudis, particularly young women, who view such participation as a symbol of increasing freedoms. Al-Qahtani herself, a dentist and social media influencer, embodies this evolving Saudi identity. Her potential participation has garnered significant online attention within the country, sparking discussions about beauty standards and the role of women in Saudi society.
However, the possibility of a Saudi delegate has also drawn criticism from some Saudis who believe the pageant contradicts Islamic values and promotes an overly Westernized standard of beauty. They argue that Saudi Arabia should focus on cultural achievements and intellectual pursuits rather than beauty competitions.
The Miss Universe Organization has also undergone changes in recent years, aiming to be more inclusive and progressive. The pageant now emphasizes celebrating the diverse backgrounds and experiences of contestants, alongside traditional criteria like beauty and grace. Whether a Saudi delegate would compete in a swimsuit, a controversial aspect of the pageant for some, remains to be seen.
Regardless of how a potential Saudi contestant chooses to present herself, her participation would undoubtedly place the kingdom on a global stage and spark conversations about the country's evolving social landscape. It would mark a significant moment for both Miss Universe and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the ongoing transformation within the nation.