LAHORE (Entertainment Desk) – Pakistan is set to mark a historic milestone in the country’s pageantry journey as Anniqa Meraj has been crowned Miss World Pakistan 2026 and will represent the nation at the 75th Anniversary Edition of the Miss World Festival in Vietnam. The event, scheduled to take place from August 9 to September 5, will be Pakistan’s first-ever participation in the prestigious Miss World competition.
The announcement has generated excitement among pageant enthusiasts and supporters who view the debut as an important opportunity for Pakistan to showcase its culture, diversity and talent on one of the world’s most recognized international stages.
Twenty-four-year-old Anniqa Meraj, a graduate in Business and Economics with a specialization in accounting and auditing, received the crown during a ceremony held at Lahore’s Faletti’s Hotel. The title was presented by Dr. Shafaq Akhtar, Miss Pakistan Universal 2022, alongside Attaullah Gujjar, Mr. Pakistan World.
Speaking after being crowned, Anniqa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent Pakistan while outlining her professional and social ambitions. She said her long-term goal is to become a State-Authorised Public Accountant and to actively support initiatives focused on children’s rights and girls’ education. According to Anniqa, empowering young girls through education can contribute significantly to Pakistan’s future development.
Organizers described Anniqa as an experienced pageant contestant with an impressive international record. According to Miss Pakistan World, she has participated in six international beauty competitions and secured four winning titles, providing her with valuable experience ahead of the Miss World contest.
The 75th Anniversary Edition of Miss World is expected to bring together contestants from across the globe for a month-long festival featuring cultural exchanges, charity activities, talent showcases and competitions that extend beyond traditional beauty pageants. Participants will also engage in community initiatives and advocacy campaigns reflecting the organization’s “Beauty with a Purpose” philosophy.
Pakistan’s inclusion in Miss World represents another step in the country’s growing presence at major international beauty competitions. In recent years, Pakistani contestants have appeared at global events including Miss Universe, where representatives such as Erica Robin and Roma Riaz attracted international attention and encouraged broader discussions about Pakistan’s participation in international pageantry.
Supporters believe Anniqa’s participation offers an opportunity to present a positive and contemporary image of Pakistan while highlighting the country’s educated and accomplished young women. They say her academic background and commitment to social causes align with the values increasingly emphasized in international pageants.
The Miss World Festival in Vietnam will provide contestants with opportunities to promote their national heritage through cultural presentations, fashion events and charitable initiatives. Anniqa is expected to showcase elements of Pakistan’s rich traditions, hospitality and cultural diversity during the competition.
Organizers have expressed confidence that Pakistan’s debut at Miss World will inspire greater participation in future international pageants and encourage young Pakistani women to pursue opportunities that combine leadership, education and community service.
As preparations continue ahead of the festival, expectations remain high for Pakistan’s first representative at Miss World. While competition will be intense among contestants from around the world, Anniqa Meraj’s selection marks a significant chapter in Pakistan’s pageantry history and reflects the country’s expanding engagement with international cultural platforms.
With the countdown to the competition underway, many supporters hope Pakistan’s inaugural appearance at Miss World will not only achieve success on the global stage but also strengthen conversations around education, women’s empowerment and cultural representation. Regardless of the final outcome, Anniqa Meraj’s participation has already secured a place in Pakistan’s history as the country’s first contestant at the Miss World pageant.
