UAE's first Miss Universe contestant: Meet Emilia Dobreva
Dubai-based model and mother-of-three to participate in Mexico this month
DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates is set to make history at the Miss Universe pageant on November 16, with Emilia Dobreva, a Dubai-based model and mother of three, chosen as its first-ever contestant.
Selected from over a thousand entrants, Dobreva will proudly represent the UAE at the global event in Mexico City.
Born in Eastern Europe, Dobreva has called Dubai her home for over a decade, where she built her life and career as a model. Now, she stands ready to represent the UAE, donning a distinctive abaya-inspired national costume for the event, a tribute to her adopted country’s traditions and achievements.
"The abaya will embody the UAE’s beauty and transformation," said a statement from the Miss Universe UAE team. "It blends the UAE's roots in the sand with a modern design on the top, reflecting the nation’s incredible progress."
From Model to Miss Universe UAE
No stranger to beauty competitions, Dobreva previously earned the title of Miss Friendship International in 2019, bringing valuable pageantry experience to her role as Miss Universe UAE. The Miss Universe UAE team praised her “elegance, intelligence, and commitment to empowering others.” Her selection marks a new chapter in the UAE’s history, as she steps into the spotlight as a symbol of Emirati and expatriate pride.
Dobreva’s journey involved extensive training, as she prepared to compete with contestants from 130 countries. A boot camp with 16 finalists provided rigorous preparation in public speaking and runway skills
After being crowned Miss Universe UAE, she continued with daily coaching sessions to ensure her poise, confidence, and message would shine on the international stage.
Redefining beauty standards
This year’s Miss Universe competition, now in its 73rd year, has opened doors to greater inclusivity, welcoming mothers, married women, and contestants from diverse backgrounds to participate.
Historically, only unmarried women aged 18 to 28 could enter the Miss Universe pageant, but in 2023, the organisation removed limitations on age, height, weight, and marital status.
These new rules resonate with Dobreva’s story and the UAE’s values of empowering women from various walks of life.
Alongside nine other nations including Somalia and Uzbekistan, which are also making their debut, the UAE’s presence on the Miss Universe stage marks a significant moment for the Gulf region.
Dobreva hopes her journey inspires women across the UAE and beyond. “This experience is a chance to give back to a country that has given me so much,” she shared on social media, where her story has garnered widespread support.
A new chapter for UAE and Arab Women
Emilia Dobreva’s role as the UAE’s first Miss Universe contestant underscores the nation’s commitment to celebrating and supporting empowered women. Competing alongside contestants from Lebanon, Egypt, and Bahrain, she hopes to bring a fresh representation of the UAE to the international stage.
When is Miss Universe 2024 happening?
The 73rd edition of the Miss Universe pageant will kick off on Thursday, November 14, 2024 with the winner being crowned on Saturday, November 16.
See the full schedule of events below:
- Nov 12, 2024: Unveiling of the Crown Cocktail Party
- Nov 14, 2024: Preliminaries & National Costume Show
- Nov 15, 2024: Farewell Afternoon Tea with reigning Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios
- Nov 16, 2024: MU 73rd Edition final show
- Nov 17, 2024: Departure
Fans will be able to live stream the pageant from the comforts of their home.
Where is Miss Universe 2024 taking place?
Miss Universe 2024 will be held in Mexico. This will be the country’s second time hosting the contest after previously hosting it in 2007.
How to watch Miss Universe 2024 in UAE, KSA, and GCC
In previous years, viewers in the UAE, KSA, and GCC have been able to livestream the pageant on the official Miss Universe YouTube account. It is likely Miss Universe 2024 will also be broadcast on the channel.