Miss Palestine to make historic debut at Miss Universe 2025

For the first time in history, Palestine will be represented at the Miss Universe beauty pageant, with 27-year-old Nadeen Ayoub set to compete at this year’s edition in Bangkok, Thailand.

The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) confirmed on Sunday that Ayoub, crowned Miss Palestine in 2022, will participate in the 74th edition of the global pageant scheduled for November 21.

“Ms. Ayoub, an accomplished advocate and model from Palestine, embodies the resilience and determination that define our platform,” the MUO said in a statement, adding that it is “pleased to confirm” her participation alongside more than 130 contestants from across the world.

ALSO READ: US embassy requires five-year social media disclosure for Nigerian visa applicants

Reacting to the announcement, Ayoub shared her excitement on Instagram, describing the milestone as a chance to amplify Palestinian voices on the world stage.

“I am honored to announce that for the first time ever, Palestine will be represented at Miss Universe.

“As Palestine endures heartbreak — especially in Gaza — I carry the voice of a people who refuse to be silenced.

“We are more than our suffering — we are resilience, hope, and the heartbeat of a homeland that lives on through us,” she wrote.

Her participation comes at a time when global attention remains fixed on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where the Palestinian Ministry of Health says over 62,000 people have been killed since the conflict with Israel reignited in October 2023.

Meanwhile, international momentum toward Palestinian statehood continues to build, with more than 145 countries now supporting recognition.

Recently, Australia, Canada, and France joined the list of nations backing Palestinian statehood, while the UK has indicated conditional support tied to a ceasefire agreement.

(CNN)