For women of Saudi Arabia, the ultra-conservative kingdom is putting a foot forward as it fielded for the very first time a candidate in the prestigious Miss Universe pageant.
Rumy Alqahtani, a renowned model, influencer, and pageant veteran, is set to represent the birthplace of Islam at the 73rd edition of the Miss Universe Pageant to be held in Mexico this year.
According to Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, Alqahtani is Miss Middle East (Saudi Arabia), Miss Arab World Peace 2021, and Miss Woman (Saudi Arabia).
Miss Saudi Arabia’s joining the Miss Universe pageant reflects a growing trend of the pageant’s promoting inclusivity and equality, especially among Middle Eastern countries.
It is remembered that in the previous editions of Miss Universe, Miss Pakistan and Miss Bahrain wore “Burkini” during the swimsuit competition. It is a full-body suit worn by Muslim women that reflects modesty as part of their religious beliefs.
No official date has been released yet for the 73rd Miss Universe Coronation night, where candidates will compete to succeed current crown holder Shyanne Palacios.
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