The UAE is gearing up to host its inaugural Miss Universe UAE event, set to take place in November at the iconic La Perle in Dubai’s Al Habtoor City. This exciting announcement was made during a press conference held at the luxurious Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa, marking a significant milestone for beauty pageants in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Event Date: The coronation night is scheduled for November 7.
- Eligibility: Open to UAE residents aged 18 to 28.
- Casting Call: Begins on October 15, with 30 finalists announced on October 20.
- Cultural Adaptation: Swimwear segment eliminated to respect local customs.
Event Details
The Miss Universe UAE event will feature a diverse group of contestants, reflecting the multicultural fabric of the UAE. Participants must be residents of the UAE and fall within the age range of 18 to 28. Registration for the event opens on October 7, with a casting call set for October 15. From this casting, 30 models will be selected to advance to the live show, culminating in the coronation night on November 7.
The winner of the UAE edition will earn the opportunity to compete in the international Miss Universe competition scheduled for December.
Organizing Committee
The event is organized by a committee of notable figures, including:
- Josh Yugen: Founder and CEO of Yugen Events.
- Furne Amato: Renowned Dubai-based fashion designer.
- Maggie Wilson: Former British-Filipino beauty queen.
- Alaf Meky: Philanthropist.
- Zel Ali: Humanitarian.
- Sharihan Al-Mashary: General Manager of Emaar.
Embracing Diversity
During the press conference, Sharihan Al-Mashary emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating, "For us, anyone who lives here is part of our identity, and thus Miss Universe UAE is open to every resident and national." This commitment to diversity is expected to attract a wide range of contestants, showcasing the unique backgrounds and stories of women living in the UAE.
Cultural Considerations
In a move to align with regional cultural values, the organizers have decided to eliminate the traditional swimwear segment from the competition. Instead, contestants will present personal statements and showcase couture activewear and evening gowns. This change reflects a broader trend in beauty pageants, where the focus is shifting towards empowerment and individuality rather than conforming to traditional beauty standards.
Evolution of Beauty Pageants
Maggie Wilson, who spoke at the conference, noted the significant evolution of beauty pageants over the years. She remarked, "Pageants have changed so much since the 15 years of when I first joined. There is so much more diversity in the women that are joining." Wilson highlighted that the perception of what a beauty queen should look like is evolving, with recent winners representing a variety of body shapes and backgrounds.
Conclusion
The first Miss Universe UAE event promises to be a landmark occasion, celebrating beauty, diversity, and empowerment in a culturally rich environment. As the event approaches, excitement builds among potential contestants and the public alike, eager to witness a new chapter in the history of beauty pageants in the UAE.
Sources
- Dubai to host its first Miss Universe UAE event, Arab News.
