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Beauty queen

Miss Universe makes history with first-ever Palestinian contestant, Nadeen Ayoub


The MUO said it was "pleased to confirm" Ayoub's participation


Ayoub's participation comes with the chance to spotlight Palestinian culture, resilience, and aspirations on an international scale
Shirley GomezSenior Writer
UPDATED AUGUST 19, 2025 10:43 AM EDT

Palestine will have a representative on its world stage for the first time in Miss Universe history. The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) confirmed that Nadeen Ayoub, a 27-year-old model and advocate, will proudly represent the Palestinian people at the upcoming Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 21. This groundbreaking moment marks Ayoub's personal victory and a symbolic milestone for Palestinians worldwide.

The MUO said it was "pleased to confirm" Ayoub's participation, highlighting her as an embodiment of resilience and determination. The organization noted that Miss Universe celebrates cultural exchange, empowerment, and diversity, values that Ayoub's journey powerfully reflects.

The MUO said it was "pleased to confirm" Ayoub's participation© Nadeen Ayoub
The MUO said it was "pleased to confirm" Ayoub's participation

By stepping onto one of the most-watched global stages, Ayoub will join more than 130 delegates from countries and territories worldwide. But her appearance carries extra weight: the first time the Palestinian flag will be represented at the event.

From Miss Palestine to Miss Universe

Nadeen Ayoub is no stranger to the pageant world. She was crowned Miss Palestine in 2022, earning admiration not only for her beauty but also for her advocacy. Now, three years later, she steps onto a bigger platform, and she's making it clear that her role is about more than appearances.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Ayoub wrote: "I am honored to announce that for the first time ever, Palestine will be represented at Miss Universe. I want to be a voice for the Palestinian people." Her words resonate deeply at a time when representation and visibility matter more than ever.

Nadeen Ayoubc© Nadeen Ayoub
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Ayoub wrote: "I am honored to announce that for the first time ever, Palestine will be represented at Miss Universe.

More Than a Competition

While Miss Universe is often celebrated as a glamorous spectacle, it has also evolved into a platform for advocacy and storytelling. Contestants are increasingly recognized not only for their beauty and stage presence but also for their ability to inspire and influence global conversations.

Ayoub's participation comes with the chance to spotlight Palestinian culture, resilience, and aspirations on an international scale. The MUO described her as an "accomplished advocate," underscoring that her journey to the crown is about identity and empowerment, not just pageantry.

Ayoub's participation comes with the chance to spotlight Palestinian culture, resilience, and aspirations on an international scale© Miss Universe
Ayoub's participation comes with the chance to spotlight Palestinian culture, resilience, and aspirations on an international scale

Looking Ahead to Bangkok

The 74th Miss Universe competition promises to be one of the year's most anticipated events, with Bangkok, Thailand, set as its host city. For Ayoub, the experience will be both a personal achievement and a shared triumph for the people she represents.

The world will be watching as Ayoub takes the stage, standing alongside contestants from every corner of the globe. Her presence will send a powerful message that beauty queens are not just about crowns and sashes, but about voices, visibility, and making history. For many Palestinians, this moment is about being seen, heard, and included in a global celebration of women. And for the Miss Universe Organization, it's another step toward becoming a true reflection of the world's diversity. 

On November 21, all eyes will be on Bangkok, and Nadeen Ayoub will walk onto that stage, not just as Miss Palestine, but as a symbol of history in the making.

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