At Miss Universe in Thailand, Mariam Mohamed is representing the UAE through a series of carefully selected looks – each tied to a different aspect of the country’s culture.

From a falcon-inspired opening costume to a silver gown echoing the UAE skyline, her wardrobe is an expression of identity as she steps into the competition as the first Emirati woman in the long-running competition.

Mohamed is among 122 contestants from the around the world vying for the Miss Universe crown, including, for the first time in history, Miss Universe Palestine Nadine Ayoub. This is the 74th year the popular competition is being held, with current Miss Universe, Victoria Theilvig from Denmark, set to crown her successor on November 21.

For her first public appearance, Mohamed chose a falcon-inspired costume by Dubai-based label Mirocha Maison – an homage to one of the UAE’s strongest cultural emblems.

“I chose the falcon because in my free time I love to go to the desert and practice falconry,” she tells The National. “The falcon represents courage and freedom and it is part of my identity, strength and heritage. I'm also training to be a falconer.”

Mariam Mohamed, left, on stage during the official Miss Universe 2025 welcome event in Bangkok. EPA

At the sashing ceremony, she wore a sleek black gown by Lebanese-Brazilian label Aavva, a design she says “really captured sophistication, strength, and the confidence of an Emirati woman on the global stage”. Mohamed chose Aavva again for a fashion event, wearing a pink number featuring sculptural ruffles.

There are a few more surprises in store. Her national costume will be a modern take on the Emirati thobe designed by Huda Al Shamsi. “It’s stunning,” Mariam says. “I can’t wait to showcase a contemporary take on traditional Emirati fashion while honouring my heritage on this global stage.”

For the finals, she will step into a creation by Ghohary the label by Dubai-based designer Mohsen Ghohary.

Mohamed in a sleek black gown by Lebanese-Brazilian label Aavva.