DUBAI: Mariam Mohamed, a 26-year-old fashion student, has made history as the first Emirati woman to represent the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the Miss Universe pageant, scheduled to take place next month in Thailand.
Her selection, confirmed by Miss Universe UAE on Instagram, marks a major milestone in the UAE’s growing presence on the global stage for culture and representation.
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Symbol of Emirati empowerment
Speaking after her selection, Mariam said the moment was deeply personal.
“The UAE has given me the confidence to dream big,” she said. “I want to be a voice for women who are ambitious, curious, and driven. Miss Universe UAE is not just about beauty — it is about impact.”
Mariam’s achievement comes at a time when the UAE continues to expand opportunities for women across various sectors, from business to education and the arts.
From economics to fashion
Born and raised in the UAE, Mariam holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Sydney and is currently pursuing fashion design at ESMOD Dubai. She describes her journey as one that bridges academia, art, and social advocacy.
“My dream is to reduce global poverty and empower women,” she said in remarks shared by Miss Universe UAE.
Beyond the runway, Mariam has designed sustainable fashion collections and participated in several charitable initiatives, including Ramadan Aman and The Giving Family Initiative.
She has also represented the UAE in international programmes promoting women’s entrepreneurship and leadership.
Fusion of heritage and modernity
Mariam’s profile stands out not only for her academic and social accomplishments but also for her ability to blend Emirati tradition with contemporary values.
Her interests range from falconry and camel riding — traditional pillars of Gulf heritage — to sustainable design and global cultural exchange.
“She represents a unique balance between heritage and innovation,” said Poppy Capella, National Director of Miss Universe UAE.
“Her eloquence, vision, and deep pride in Emirati culture made her the ideal candidate to carry our nation’s flag on the global Miss Universe stage.”
According to Capella, this year’s Miss Universe UAE competition drew more than 950 applicants from across the country. “The process was fair, transparent, and rigorous, giving every finalist the opportunity to shine,” she said.
She added that Mariam’s combination of academic excellence, advocacy for women and poverty eradication, and commitment to Emirati identity made her stand out among the contestants.
“Each of the young women brought extraordinary talent, intelligence, and heart to the competition. The UAE is a nation where women rise as leaders, changemakers, and cultural ambassadors, honouring their roots while shaping a brighter global future,” Capella said.
Roma Riaz to represent Pakistan
Meanwhile, Miss Universe Pakistan announced that Roma Riaz will represent Pakistan at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.
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“This crown isn’t just mine — it belongs to every girl who dares to dream beyond limits,” Riaz wrote in a post on Instagram. “I’m so proud to represent the beauty, strength, and heart of Pakistan on the Miss Universe stage.”
Organisers said Roma would “carry with her the pride, resilience, and beauty of a nation ready to shine” at this year’s global competition.
