The Miss Universe 2025 finals, one of the world’s most prestigious beauty pageants, are set to take place on November 21 in Thailand. This year’s event will feature over 120 contestants from across the globe, with a special focus on participants from the Middle East, including first-time representatives from Palestine and the UAE. The competition, often referred to as one of the ‘big four’ beauty pageants, promises to showcase a blend of national pride, beauty, and empowerment.
Among the standout contestants is Mariam Mohamed, a 26-year-old Emirati fashion student who has made history as the first woman from the UAE to compete in Miss Universe. With a background in economics and fashion design, Mariam is passionate about sustainable fashion, women’s empowerment, and community development. She has actively participated in charitable initiatives and international entrepreneurship programs, aiming to inspire change through her platform.
Palestine will also make its debut in the competition, represented by Nadeen Ayoub, a 27-year-old advocate for Palestinian women’s empowerment. Raised across Palestine, the US, and Canada, Nadeen now splits her time between Dubai and Ramallah. She emphasizes courage, dreams, and determination as her defining traits, aiming to build a brighter future for her people.
Other notable participants include Sabrina Erian from Egypt, a 23-year-old professional model who champions inclusion and equality; Melanie Shiraz Asor from Israel, an engineer and advocate; Ceren Arsllan from Turkey, a model and anti-cyberbullying activist; and Sarah Boujaoude from Lebanon, a finance student at the American University in Beirut.
The event not only celebrates beauty but also highlights the diverse stories, aspirations, and contributions of women from around the world, making it a platform for cultural exchange and global unity.