Saudi Arabia appears to be undergoing significant changes in its laws and cultural practices. The country may see its first Miss Universe contestant this year, as organizers are in the process of vetting a potential candidate to represent Saudi Arabia in the competition, scheduled for September in Mexico.
Maria Jose Unda, the coordinator of international relations for the Miss Universe Organization, stated that a decision on the National Director for Saudi Arabia is expected soon. This development follows Saudi model Rumy al-Qahtani's claim on Instagram that she had been selected to represent the country at Miss Universe, a post that was later refuted by Miss Universe as "false and misleading."
If Saudi Arabia does field a Miss Universe candidate, it would be another step in the country's efforts to soften its ultra-conservative image. These changes are seen in light of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's initiatives to attract tourists and investors, including the recent opening of Saudi Arabia's first alcohol store, a move that has sparked controversy among some Nigerian Muslims.
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