Rumy Alqahtani, a Saudi lady, will compete in the 2024 Miss Universe Beauty Pageant, becoming the first Saudi contestant to do so.
This big event marks a turning point in Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman’s reform efforts, emphasizing the country’s move toward greater equality and transparency.
On Instagram, the 27-year-old Riyadh native Alqahtani expressed her excitement and gratitude for the chance, emphasizing the historical significance of Saudi Arabia’s debut in the beauty competition.
Alqahtani’s statement follows in the footsteps of Bahrain’s Lujane Yacoub, who competed in the previous year’s Miss Universe pageant, becoming the first entrant from the conservative Gulf area.
Iran will also make its debut at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant, which will take place in Mexico on September 18.
Alqahtani has a Bachelor’s degree in dentistry and speaks English, French, and Arabic, according to The Independent.
She has won numerous pageant achievements, including Miss Saudi Arabia, Miss Middle East (Saudi Arabia), Miss Arab World Peace 2021, and Miss Woman (Saudi Arabia). She has also competed in other worldwide pageants, the most recent being Miss and Mrs. Worldwide Asian in Malaysia in February.
However, the announcement of her participation has provoked fury and open criticism among conservative Muslims, notably those in Nigeria.
Reacting to the post…
@mpiredivine: Well, not surprising, their laws are easing up towards Women and more of this will happen going forward..
@promoting_naija: But our own Muslims in Nigeria will frown against this, saying it’s against Islam.
@wahalaMann: Northerners Nigeria left the group chat.
@FocuzIsaac: Saudi allowed her to dress like that? Ronaldo’s influence is massive .
@Homiebishop:Muslim don dey fold