Breaking Barriers: A Conversation with Miss Earth UAE & Miss Middle East2024
In the world of pageantry, beauty is often celebrated—but true queens redefine what it means to wear the crown. CP Magazine is proud to feature Miss Earth UAE and Miss Middle East 2024, a trailblazing Emirati woman who has not only broken barriers but also stayed true to her heritage and values while making history.
At just 23, she has achieved what many would consider impossible. From being the first Emirati to compete in Miss Earth, reaching the Top 20, and standing as a proud advocate for sustainability, she has used her platform to inspire and create meaningful change. Her journey wasn’t just about walking the runway—it was about proving that modesty, culture, and ambition can coexist in the world of beauty pageants.
In this exclusive interview, she opens up about her passion for sustainability, her journey in the competition, the challenges she faced, and the responsibility of representing the Middle East on a global stage. She also shares her thoughts on confidence, staying authentic, and the message she hopes to send to young women who dream of following in her footsteps.
Her story is one of courage, determination, and redefining beauty standards. Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of a woman who is more than just a titleholder—she is a role model, an advocate, and a true force of change.
Congratulations on being crowned Miss Earth UAE and Miss Middle East 2024! How does it feel to hold these prestigious titles?
Thank you! It’s an honour to hold these titles, especially as the first Emirati to do so. However, it also comes with a great deal of responsibility and pressure.
Tell us a little about yourself and your education.
I am 23 years old. I entered the competition when I was 21 and won at 22. I’ve been a horse rider since the age of 10, and I would describe myself as a very patient yet outgoing and social person.
I graduated from high school with aspirations of joining the aviation field—originally as a pilot. However, I began studying Science in Aviation and, while I haven’t graduated yet, I am currently working towards it.
What initially sparked your interest in pageantry, and how did you decide to compete for Miss Earth UAE?
What caught my attention was the “beauty for a cause” aspect of Miss Earth. This pageant is about more than just beauty—it focuses on sustainability and making a positive impact on our planet. Since I was already representing the UAE Pavilion at COP28, I felt I had a lot to contribute and learn through Miss Earth as well.
Secondly, I have always loved beauty, fashion, and everything that comes with it. However, because of my cultural background, I initially thought pageantry would be impossible for me. When I eventually participated, I did so while staying true to my traditions and values. I embraced them fully and proved that modesty and Arab heritage can also win in beauty pageants, breaking stereotypes along the way.
Can you walk us through the journey and selection process leading up to your crowning?
My journey was slightly different from that of other contestants. First, I was the youngest and not active on social media as a public figure. I had to balance working and training at the same time, which was quite challenging. I also faced moments where people questioned my participation because of my Arab identity.
Despite that, I had the vision, the determination, and most importantly, I believed in myself. That belief helped others believe in me too, which ultimately led to my crowning.
What do you think set you apart from the other contestants and helped you win the titles?
I would say my dedication. That being said, every contestant was hardworking and ambitious. However, I had a point to prove, and I worked non-stop to make sure I achieved it.
Competing at Miss Earth and reaching the Top 20 is a huge achievement—what was the most memorable moment from that experience?
Reaching the Top 20 was the most memorable moment for me because I was the first Emirati to ever participate, and as a first-time contestant, making it that far felt incredible. I am very proud of myself.
I remember how hard I worked—I did everything on my own, faced difficulties, and invested so much time, money, and effort without external support. But I stayed strong and determined to win. Thankfully, I had an amazing support system, including my mother, my best friend, and my sister, who helped me stay mentally prepared. I refused to return home empty-handed.
Miss Earth is known for promoting environmental awareness—what cause are you most passionate about?
Sustainability is my biggest passion. I even highlighted it when I was a speaker at the Forbes Sustainability Leaders Summit, where I received a certificate as a young leader. Sustainability is deeply rooted in our traditions, values, and daily lives. It’s about preserving what our ancestors left us and ensuring a better future for the next generations.
How do you plan to use your platform to advocate for sustainability and environmental change?
I approach sustainability in a way that resonates with people’s everyday lives rather than just through education. I incorporate it into my lifestyle, whether through my makeup tutorials, unboxing new products, or discussing conscious consumerism in a relatable way.
As Miss Middle East 2024, what do you feel is your responsibility in representing the region on a global stage?
My responsibility is not to be different from my traditions but to be unique through them. I aim to proudly embrace our clothing, modesty, and values, ensuring I represent Middle Eastern women in an authentic and empowering way.
What message do you want to send to young Middle Eastern women who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
I’d say don’t follow my footsteps—follow your heart. Be proud of who you are and where you come from. Don’t try to blend in; embrace your identity. If you are loved and chosen, it will be because of your authenticity.
Never let fear hold you back. There are no limits to creativity. If you want to do something, go for it. Stay true to your traditions and values, and you will never lose.
Many people think pageantry is just about beauty—what do you say to that perception?
That’s a common misconception! Many assume that titleholders are chosen solely for their looks, but in reality, pageantry is about much more. It requires intelligence, strong communication skills, confidence, respect for others, and knowledge of the cause you are advocating for.
Confidence is key in competitions like this—how did you prepare yourself mentally and physically for the pageant?
Confidence isn’t just key in a competition—it’s key in everyday life.
My advice is to never compare yourself to others. If there’s something you lack confidence in, work on it and improve yourself. During the competition, I focused on presenting the best version of myself while remaining humble and true to who I am.
What was the biggest challenge you faced during the competition, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge was the swimsuit round. I was unwilling to compromise on my values or traditions just to win. Fortunately, the organisers were understanding, and I found a way to modify my outfit by layering it as a cover-up dress. It was nerve-wracking, but in the end, it worked out smoothly.
If you could collaborate with any organisation or brand to promote a cause, which one would it be and why?
I’d love to collaborate with TOMS or One Tree Planted to promote giving back. TOMS provides shoes to those in need with every purchase, and One Tree Planted plants trees with every donation. These initiatives have a direct and immediate impact, and I would love to be a part of such meaningful change.
Who has been your biggest inspiration or support system throughout your journey?
My best friend has been with me every step of the way—from photoshoots to shopping for the competition and creating content. Of course, my mother and sister were also incredibly supportive, especially when they flew to Manila to be there for me during the finals.
How has winning these titles changed your life, both personally and professionally?
It has mainly changed my professional life, as it opened doors for me as a public figure and model. However, the most important work is constantly improving myself and my platform.
What are some of your other hobbies?
Horse riding is my favourite, but I also enjoy drawing, colouring, and socialising.
Can you share a life motto or quote that has guided you through challenges?
Be kind, but don’t let others take advantage of your kindness.
Never compromise your values just to fit in. Stay authentic—the right people will appreciate you for who you truly are.
What is one personal or professional milestone you hope to achieve?
I hope to become a global brand ambassador and a runway model for a major fashion house.
If you could describe your journey in three words, what would they be?
Bold – Enlightening – Different
Your message for us at CP Magazine.
Being the first Emirati to participate in Miss Earth has been an eye-opening experience. Every challenge I faced helped shape me into a stronger individual. I am proud to represent my country and advocate for sustainability, empowerment, and authenticity.
Thank you, CP Magazine, for this honour—I’m proud to be part of your family!
