Who Is Nadeen Ayoub? Inside Palestine’s First Miss Universe Entry And The Controversy

Last Updated:August 27, 2025, 17:23 IST

Palestine joins Miss Universe amid global attention on Gaza and the Israel-Palestine conflict, with some countries set to recognise it despite US and Israel not doing so

Nadeen Ayoub revealed that she had initially planned to enter Miss Universe earlier, but postponed her decision following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. (Instagram/@nadeen.m.ayoub)

Nadeen Ayoub, 27, will make history as the first contestant to represent Palestine at the Miss Universe pageant. Crowned Miss Palestine in 2022, she will compete in the 74th edition of the global event, set to be held in Bangkok, Thailand, on November 21, alongside participants from more than 130 countries and regions.

Miss Universe Organisation Confirms Participation

The Miss Universe Organisation has confirmed Nadeen Ayoub’s participation, emphasising their mission to provide a platform for diversity and women’s empowerment globally. However, there is some controversy as there is no clear record of Ayoub’s journey to becoming Miss Palestine. There was no official Miss Palestine pageant, and details of other contestants vying for the title have not been disclosed.

Who Is Nadeen Ayoub?

Born in America and raised in Canada, Nadeen Ayoub currently resides in Dubai. She holds degrees in English Literature and Psychology from Canada. In addition to being a model and wellness coach, Ayoub has taught at Friends School in Ramallah and has carried out humanitarian work in Gaza with the organisation ‘United in Humanity’. She also runs ‘Olive Green Academy’ in Dubai, where individuals are trained to become social media influencers.

Why Was Her Entry Postponed?

Ayoub revealed that she had initially planned to enter Miss Universe earlier, but postponed her decision following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023 and Israel’s subsequent retaliation in Gaza. She felt that attention should be focused on those suffering in Palestine at that time, rather than on her participation.

Controversy And Questions

Nadeen Ayoub’s entry has sparked questions and controversy. Adela Kozab, a New York-based Jewish activist and former Miss Israel runner-up, expressed surprise at Ayoub’s presence in Miss Universe. Additionally, the Miss Palestine Organisation’s website, registered only in May, features solely Ayoub’s pictures, and details about the selection process have not been disclosed.

International Political Context

Palestine’s participation in Miss Universe comes amid heightened international focus on the Gaza conflict and the ongoing Palestine-Israel dispute. While the United States and Israel do not recognise Palestine as an independent country, several nations including France, Canada, Malta, and Australia are planning to do so soon. Britain has also indicated that it will recognise Palestine if there is an agreement on a ceasefire and a two-nation solution.

Location :

Palestine

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