The Miss Universe Organization has dismissed recent assertions by a Saudi model, Rumy al-Qahtani regarding, her purported participation in the 2024 event.
Clarifying that no selection process occurred in the Kingdom, they emphasized the ongoing "rigorous vetting process" for potential candidates.
While Saudi Arabia has not been confirmed as a participating country, the organization stated, "Saudi Arabia will not have this opportunity to join our prestigious pageant until this is final and confirmed by our approval committee."
The statement followed the model's declaration on social media, where al-Qahtani announced her involvement in the annual pageant, marking what she claimed to be Saudi Arabia's inaugural participation.
Despite numerous attempts to reach the model for comment, al-Qahtani has not responded to media inquiries.
Al-Qahtani’s social media announcement remains unchanged since the Miss Universe Organization's statement.
The Riyadh-born model boasts a portfolio of pageantry experience, having represented the Kingdom in various other events such as Miss Arab Peace, Miss Planet and Miss Middle East, as stated in her Instagram bio.
The forthcoming Miss Universe event, scheduled to take place in Mexico in September, will showcase over 100 contestants from around the world.