In a groundbreaking move, Saudi Arabia will take part in the famous Miss Universe pageant for the first time set to take place in Mexico. This decision marks a significant shift in societal norms towards greater inclusion and female empowerment in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia will be represented at the contest by 27-year-old model and content creator Rumy Alqahtani, who was born in Riyadh. Rumy wrote on her Instagram account, expressing how honored she was to be a part of the Miss Universe 2024 pageant. She stated that this is KSA’s first time competing in the Miss Universe competition.
Rumy’s appearance on the Miss Universe stage follows Lujane Yacoub. The later represented Bahrain in the 2023 pageant, becoming the first woman from the Gulf region to compete.
Besides, she won the titles of Miss Middle East (Saudi Arabia), Miss Arab World Peace 2021, and Miss Woman (Saudi Arabia) in addition to being awarded Miss Saudi Arabia. She has previously competed in several international pageants as a representative of Saudi Arabia, such as Miss Asia in Malaysia, Miss Arab Peace, and Miss Europe.
It is worth mentioning that Rumy is fluent in Arabic, French, and English, and holds a Bachelor of Dental degree. She enjoys travelling and discovering new locations all around the world.
Miss Universe pageant is an annual international major beauty competition. The competition honors women of all ages, ethnicities, and faiths. It gives women the chance to tell their story and make a difference in the personal, professional, and charitable spheres. The female participants in this competition act as role models and inspirational leaders for their communities and their global fan base.
Regarding Miss Universe 2024, this will be the esteemed beauty pageant’s 73rd edition. At the occasion, Sheynnis Palacios, the current Miss Universe from Nicaragua, will give her crown to the new Miss Universe.
Saudi Arabia’s Journey Towards Openness
The announcement of Saudi Arabia’s participation in Miss Universe 2024 has sparked excitement both within regionally and globally. Traditionally, beauty pageants have not been a common feature in Saudi Arabia due to cultural and societal norms. However, in recent years, there has been a notable shift towards greater openness and acceptance of such events. These changes are part of broader social reforms initiated by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Saudi Arabia has undergone social and economic reforms, partly due to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud’s efforts. For example, women can now drive, go to public sporting events and concerts, and apply for a passport without the consent of a male guardian. Saudi Arabia aims at empowering women and expanding their participation in various sectors of society. These changes highlight Saudi Arabia’s commitment to gender equality. Moreover, these changes reflects the country’s evolving stance on women’s rights.
Besides women empowerment, Saudi Arabia is working on boosting tourism. Saudi Arabia is now more accessible to travelers from across the globe thanks to the establishment of the tourist visa programmes. Tourists can now explore Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, including historic sites such as AlUla. This has helped to promote Saudi Arabia as a travel destination throughout the world and to promote cross-cultural exchanges.
Moreover, Saudi Arabia focuses on economic diversification, rather than depending on the oil only. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil revenue. This ambitious vision has sparked the growth of new markets, chances for investment, and projects to improve the business environment.
Saudi Arabia’s openness to foreign investment and entrepreneurship has attracted interest from international companies and entrepreneurs. This interest stems from their desire to partner with Saudi businesses and contribute to economic growth.
Overall, Saudi Arabia’s openness is indicative of a deliberate attempt to welcome change and interact with the international world. Saudi Arabia’s path towards reform and openness represents a substantial step towards a better future for its people and the whole globe.
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