Dubai Fashion Student to Represent UAE at Miss Universe

Dubai-based fashion student Mariam Mohamed has been chosen to represent the United Arab Emirates at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant, set to take place on November 21 in Pak Kret, Thailand. She was selected from hundreds of applicants across the UAE, marking a proud moment for the nation as it continues to showcase its talent and culture on global platforms. The event will feature contestants from more than 130 countries and attract an estimated audience of over 500 million people worldwide.

A Journey from Economics to Fashion

Mariam’s story reflects determination and passion. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Sydney in 2021, she decided to pursue her lifelong dream of working in the fashion industry. She is now a student at ESMOD Dubai, one of the region’s leading fashion design schools, where she explores the connection between culture, creativity, and contemporary style. Her educational background gives her a unique blend of analytical thinking and artistic vision—skills that she brings to both her designs and her pageant preparation.

Celebrating Emirati Culture and Heritage

A proud Emirati, Mariam draws deep inspiration from her country’s traditions and heritage. Her hobbies, including falconry and camel riding, play a significant role in her creative identity. These two animals hold symbolic importance in UAE culture, representing strength, endurance, and grace. Mariam hopes to integrate these elements into her fashion choices during the competition, aiming to tell the story of the UAE through design, elegance, and cultural representation.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Emirati Women

As Mariam prepares for the global stage, she hopes her journey will encourage more Emirati women to embrace their passions and step confidently into international arenas. She believes that representing the UAE at Miss Universe is not just about beauty but also about intelligence, culture, and empowerment. Through her participation, she aims to highlight the progressive spirit of Emirati women who are making their mark in diverse fields—from arts and design to leadership and global advocacy.

Diverse Representation at Miss Universe 2025

This year’s Miss Universe competition will also see Dubai resident Nadine Ayoub representing Palestine for the first time, showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of the UAE’s community. Last year, the nation was represented by Kosovo-born Emilia Dobreva, who has lived in Dubai for several years. The UAE’s open policy allows residents of all nationalities who have lived in the country for at least three years to apply and represent the nation at international pageants—reflecting the country’s multicultural and welcoming spirit.

Preparing for a Global Celebration

As the 74th edition of Miss Universe approaches, excitement is building across the region. Contestants from over 130 countries are expected to arrive in Thailand, where they will participate in cultural activities, public appearances, and competitions leading up to the final event. Mariam is currently preparing with her mentors and designers in Dubai to ensure her performance reflects both sophistication and the values of her homeland.

UAE’s Growing Presence in Global Pageants

The UAE’s participation in Miss Universe in recent years has highlighted the nation’s evolving presence in the world of international beauty and culture. With contestants like Mariam Mohamed leading the way, the country continues to emphasize diversity, creativity, and empowerment. Her participation marks another step forward in the UAE’s journey to showcase its modern identity—rooted in tradition yet open to global collaboration and representation.

For Mariam, Miss Universe 2025 is more than just a competition—it is a platform to express unity, creativity, and national pride. She hopes to use her experience to advocate for young women, encouraging them to pursue education, creativity, and leadership with confidence. With her deep respect for Emirati heritage and her dedication to fashion innovation, she stands ready to represent her country with dignity and grace.