For the first time ever, a woman from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will take part directly in the prestigious Miss Universe pageant. Mariam Mohamed, aged 26, has been officially crowned Miss Universe UAE and will represent her country in the 74th edition of Miss Universe, scheduled to take place this November in Thailand.

According to a report published on Sunday by The National, a UAE-based news outlet, Mariam’s participation marks a historic milestone for the Emirates in the global beauty arena.

Event Overview

Expressing her pride and gratitude, Mariam described her achievement as “an honour beyond words.”

“This title is not just mine—it reflects every dreamer who calls the UAE home,” she said. “The United Arab Emirates has given me the courage to dream big.”

She added that her mission is to represent strong, ambitious, and confident women: “I want to give voice to all women who are curious, driven, and full of self-belief. Miss Universe UAE is not merely a beauty contest—it is a platform to create impact.”

While Mariam is the first Emirati-born woman to compete in Miss Universe, she is not the first to represent the UAE. Previously, Amelia Dobreva, a model of Kosovan origin, represented the Emirates owing to her long-term residence in Dubai.

Mariam’s participation represents a progressive cultural milestone for the UAE, reflecting the nation’s evolving presence in global arenas that celebrate diversity, empowerment, and modern identity.

Her journey, built on ambition and national pride, symbolises a new chapter for Emirati women, positioning the UAE among nations that embrace global ideals of beauty, intellect, and influence.