In 2024, a significant incident occurred during the Miss Universe competition. For the first time, Saudi Arabia sent a candidate, creating a global debate over the changing landscape of women's rights in the conservative monarchy. This involvement has led to a debate: Is it a true milestone moment for Saudi women, or a properly executed public image makeover?

Traditions & Challenges

Saudi Arabia has traditionally followed the strict rules of Islam, limiting women's participation in public life. These restrictions can involve limits on driving, pursuing specific vocations, and even requesting permission from a male guardian for various activities. However, in recent years, the conditions have changed. Even when there is a situation that Islamic people should teach and learn only in Madrasas, now the law was enforced. Allahabad high court banned the Madrasa law in Uttar Pradesh. People see all these as a positive hope in their life. 

The Miss Universe Participation: A Cause for Celebration… or Skepticism?

Supporters see Miss Universe's participation as a positive step. They feel that presenting a Saudi woman on a global platform challenges traditional assumptions and encourages other Saudi women to pursue their dreams big. It highlights pursuing social changes and provides a more progressive image of the country. This, in turn, might open the path for more progress in women's rights.

However, critics claim that a single contest candidate does not eliminate the current difficulties. Systemic difficulties such as the guardianship system, restricted employment opportunities for women, and social mobility barriers exist. They highlight the need of getting rid of these basic obstacles rather than creating symbolic gestures.

Beyond the Glitz: The Reality of Women's Lives

The reality for most Saudi women is far removed from the glamor of the Miss Universe stage. While reforms are underway, social change takes time. Restrictive social norms and interpretations of Islam continue to be hurdles. Women still face limitations in areas like inheritance rights, domestic violence protection, and equal access to education.

Understanding Halala and Polygamy

The issues of Halala (permissible) and polygamy (multiple marriages) add further layers of complexity. Halala principles, while not directly related to women's rights, can sometimes create limitations depending on interpretation. Polygamy, although allowed in Islam under specific conditions, is a contentious issue with social and legal ramifications for women.

A Look at the Reforms

In a groundbreaking move in 2018, the government lifted the ban on women driving. This shattered a long-standing symbol of oppression and increased women's mobility and independence.

The female literacy rate in Saudi Arabia has skyrocketed in recent decades, reaching an impressive 93% in 2021. This is due to increased investment in girls' education and the removal of restrictions on women attending universities.

The government is actively encouraging women to join the workforce. Initiatives include quotas in certain sectors and skills training programs. As of 2019, women made up a significant portion, nearly 35%, of the native Saudi workforce.

Women no longer require male guardian permission for most travel documents. This allows them greater autonomy and facilitates participation in educational and professional opportunities abroad.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Despite changes major difficulties remain. The guardianship system, which requires women to ask for male permission for a variety of tasks, causes irritation and limits women's autonomy. Furthermore, traditional gender stereotypes can limit women's career options and expectations from society.

However, there are prospects for growth. Increased access to education provides women with information and skills. Women are increasingly using social media to interact and share their experiences, building a feeling of community and solidarity. 

International pressure and a rising desire for economic diversification are also driving Saudi Arabia to improve gender equality. A more inclusive workforce, including empowered women, may greatly boost the country's economic development.

My views regarding this issue:

While I heard Saudi Arabia was sending a girl to Miss Universe for the first time ever, my stomach did a flip-flop. A Saudi girl on the whole world stage? It felt like a crack in the old ways, a sign things were finally changing, like we'd all been hoping.

For ages, the world only saw us one way. Now, maybe they'd see the real us – pretty, for sure, but also with dreams and goals as big as anyone else's. Maybe young girls like my niece, Amina, wouldn't have to shrink their dreams anymore. Maybe, just maybe, she'd believe, like me now, that anything is possible.

Seeing that Saudi girl confidently walk on TV made me puff up with pride. It was a reminder that we're strong, that we can hold our own anywhere.

Saudi women's reactions are as diverse as the women themselves.  Some see it as a beacon of hope, while others remain cautiously optimistic or indifferent. The true test will be whether the Miss Universe participation translates into lasting change and empowers women to shape their own destinies.