Anniqa Meraj to be Pakistan’s first contestant at Miss World pageant

WEB DESK: Anniqa Meraj has been crowned Miss World Pakistan 2026, making her the first woman from Pakistan to represent the country at the Miss World pageant.

The Miss World organisation announced the development on its official website and Instagram account on Thursday, confirming that Meraj would travel to Vietnam to participate in the 75th Anniversary Edition of the Miss World Festival, which is scheduled to run from August 9 to September 5.

Crowning in Lahore

The crowning ceremony took place at Lahore’s Faletti’s Hotel, where Meraj was crowned by Dr Shafaq Akhtar, Miss Pakistan Universal 2022, and Attaullah Gujjar, Mr Pakistan World. While this marks Pakistan’s debut at the Miss World contest, the country has seen increasing representation in international pageants in recent years. Previously, Erica Robin and Roma Riaz represented Pakistan at the Miss Universe pageant.

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Education and career goals

The 24-year-old business and economics graduate is currently pursuing a master’s degree in auditing and accounting. According to the Miss World website, Meraj stated: “My future ambitions is to achieve my dream of becoming a State-Authorised Public Accountant. And actively advocating for children’s rights and girls’ education to help build a brighter future for Pakistan.”

Meraj has prior experience in international pageantry, having previously represented Pakistan at the Miss Earth, Miss Global, Miss Cosmo, Miss Eco International, and Miss Aura International competitions. She also won four titles at the Freedom of the World competition held in Kosovo.