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The Middle East is taking over the world of beauty and pageantry as for the first time ever, a Miss Universe UAE representative will take the stage next week.
Already making waves since she was just 16 years old, Emilia Dobreva, a model and mother of three, was recently crowned Miss Universe UAE in a private audition, marking the UAE’s first step in the famed beauty competition.
Combining all of her experience in pageantry, being titled the first Miss Universe UAE is an easy feat. Despite being known as a rigorous process where mothers and married women aren’t permitted to participate, this year, new opportunities and changes are reflecting a much more inclusive approach.
And taking the helm of this opportunity is Emilia who is officially joining the roster of unapologetically talented women such as Miss Universe Egypt, Logina Salah, and Miss Universe Bahrain, Shereen Ahmed.
Vouching for her unrivalled beauty and experience, Poppy Capella, the appointed national director of the Miss Universe organisation for the UAE, said to Khaleej Times, “She was the perfect choice for Miss Universe UAE.” Further elaborating on the significant stride to crown Emilia, she stated, “She has been living in the UAE for over a decade, is married to an Emirati man, speaks Arabic and is a beautiful and smart woman.”
Set to compete across three challenging categories: evening gown, personality interview, and more, Emilia will showcase her unique gusto and blend of charisma, intelligence and beauty.
Already excited to reveal Emilia’s prowess on the stage, Poppy mentioned a brief teaser to the upcoming national costume round, “Emilia will wear an abaya that will be a stunning homage to the UAE,” she said. “The bottom of her abaya will have real sand taken from the country and the top part of her abaya will reflect the modernity that this country has achieved. The gown will truly embody the UAE, showing how it has built up a modern country from the sand.”
Who is Miss Universe UAE, Emilia Dobreva?
Emilia Dobreva was born in Pristina, Kosovo, but was raised in London, UK before ultimately moving to the United Arab Emirates where she met her husband with whom she has three children.
Ever since she was 12 years old, Emilia had already graced the fashion world starting her budding career in Japan and China, before finally entering the global scene and modelling for renowned luxury brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Elie Saab, and Jean Paul Gaultier across the fashion capitals.
She notably appeared at the Cannes Film Festival wearing Filipino Dubai-based designer Michael Cinco, where she made headlines.
Beyond that, she is a skilled designer and entrepreneur who launched her fashion brand in Dubai, Oh, My Emi.
