Miss Universe pageant denies Saudi Arabia participation in contest

The Miss Universe pageant organisers have denied Saudi Arabia’s participation in the contest after Saudi model Rumy Alqahtani had claimed to be “the first participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe pageant,” Wion News reported.

The organisation issued a statement saying: "While Saudi Arabia is not yet among those countries fully confirmed participating this year, we are currently undergoing a rigorous vetting process qualifying a potential candidate to be awarded the franchise and assigned a national director to represent."

"Saudi Arabia will not have this opportunity to join our prestigious pageant until this is final and confirmed by our approval committee," it added.

Despite the announcement, Alqahtani has not yet removed the post nor has issued any response.

Born in Riyadh, 27-year-old Alqahtani is a certified dentist. She boasts an impressive resume which includes participation in several beauty pageants, such as Miss Arab Peace, Miss Planet, and Miss Middle East.

She has one million followers on Instagram.

The 2024 Miss Universe competition is scheduled to take place in Mexico in the month of September. The international event will feature over 100 contestants from all over the globe, showcasing diversity, beauty, and brains.