In an Instagram post, Alqahtani expressed her gratitude for being chosen to compete in the Miss Universe 2024 competition. She stated, “I am honored to be a part of the Miss Universe 2024 competition. This is Saudi Arabia’s first time participating in the Miss Universe pageant.”
Saudi Arabia’s entry into the Miss Universe pageant comes as part of the kingdom’s efforts to modernize and diversify its economy. The country has been actively promoting tourism, welcoming international visitors, and unveiling ambitious plans to enhance its tourism infrastructure and attractions.
Moreover, Saudi Arabia made headlines in 2018 when it lifted the long-standing ban on women driving, a significant step towards gender equality and women’s empowerment. This decision allowed women to obtain driver’s licenses and drive freely, signaling a major shift in societal norms.
In addition to these reforms, Saudi Arabia has been focusing on initiatives to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural development. The kingdom has invested in technology and entertainment sectors, hosting prominent events and conferences to showcase its potential as a center for creativity and innovation.
Khaleej Times reported that Alqahtani, who is from Riyadh, has previous experience in international pageants, including the recent Miss and Mrs Global Asian competition in Malaysia.
The previous Miss Universe pageant saw Miss Nicaragua, Sheynnis Palacios, crowned as the winner in 2023. It was the first time a contestant from Nicaragua had won the title, with participants from Thailand and Australia securing the second and third positions. The organizers had announced that the upcoming edition of the pageant will be held in Mexico.
(With agency inputs)
