Miss Universe Organization Denies Reports of Saudi Arabia

The Miss Universe Organization has refuted claims of Saudi Arabia’s involvement in its 2024 pageant, dismissing reports as “false and misleading.” The organization clarified that no selection process has taken place in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that any assertions suggesting otherwise are inaccurate.

The controversy stemmed from social media posts by Saudi Arabian model Rumy al-Qahtani, who claimed to be competing in the Miss Universe pageant, marking a purported first for her home country.

In an official statement provided to CNN and posted on its website, the pageant highlighted that while Saudi Arabia’s participation is not yet confirmed, the organization is undergoing a stringent vetting process to determine a potential candidate. Saudi Arabia will only be eligible to join the prestigious pageant once the selection process is finalized and approved by the organization’s committee.

The controversy stemmed from social media posts by Saudi Arabian model Rumy al-Qahtani, who claimed to be competing in the Miss Universe pageant, marking a purported first for her home country. Despite the widespread dissemination of her announcement, the Miss Universe Organization has challenged its authenticity, asserting that al-Qahtani must adhere to the standard selection procedures like all other candidates.

While al-Qahtani has not addressed the issue directly in subsequent TikTok videos, the Miss Universe spokesperson emphasized that her participation, if desired, would require adherence to the established protocols.

The Miss Universe Organization also disclosed details about the upcoming pageant, revealing that over 100 countries will be represented at the event, scheduled to take place in Mexico in September 2024. Notably, this year’s competition will not impose an upper age limit on contestants, a departure from previous years’ requirements.

Additionally, the 2024 Miss Universe edition will introduce a new “cultural heritage pageant” under the Miss Universe Persia banner. This initiative aims to celebrate women of Persian descent, inviting participation from across the Persian diaspora. The winner of the Miss Universe Persia pageant will join delegates from around the world in the main competition later in the year.

As the controversy unfolds, the Miss Universe Organization remains committed to upholding transparency and integrity in its selection process, ensuring that all participants adhere to established guidelines.