Nadeen Ayoub to Represent Palestine for the First Time at Miss Universe 2025

Historic First for Palestine

Beauty queen Nadeen Ayoub is set to make history as the first woman to represent the Palestinian people at the prestigious Miss Universe pageant. The announcement was confirmed by the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) in a statement to CNN on Sunday.

Ayoub will join contestants from over 130 countries and territories at the 74th Miss Universe final, scheduled to take place on November 21, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand.

MUO Statement on Diversity and Empowerment

Miguel Ángel Martínez, MUO’s Head of Communications, expressed pride in welcoming Ayoub, stating:

“Ms. Ayoub, an accomplished advocate and model from Palestine, embodies the resilience and determination that define our platform.”

He emphasized that the Miss Universe stage is dedicated to diversity, cultural exchange, and women’s empowerment, making Ayoub’s participation a significant milestone.

Ayoub’s Message of Resilience

The 27-year-old beauty queen, who was crowned Miss Palestine in 2022, shared her excitement and mission on Instagram:

“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.”

Ayoub highlighted that she represents every Palestinian woman and child, symbolizing resilience, hope, and the heartbeat of a homeland.

Context Amid Ongoing Conflict

The landmark announcement comes against the backdrop of the ongoing war in Gaza. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, more than 62,000 people have been killed since October 2023, with women and children making up the majority of casualties, as reported by both the ministry and the United Nations.

Ayoub’s participation in Miss Universe not only marks a cultural milestone but also serves as a global platform to amplify Palestinian voices during a time of immense suffering and resilience.