Anniqa Meraj has been crowned Miss World Pakistan 2026 and will become the first Pakistani woman to represent the country at the Miss World pageant.
The crowning ceremony took place at Lahore’s Faletti’s Hotel where Meraj was crowned Miss Pakistan Universal 2022, and Attaullah Gujjar, Mr Pakistan World.
Miss World announced the news on its website and Instagram account on Thursday, confirming that Meraj will represent Pakistan at the 75th Anniversary Edition of the Miss World Festival in Vietnam, running from August 9 to September 5.
The 24-year-old holds a degree in business administration and economics and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in auditing and accounting.
“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,” Miss World quoted her as saying.
Meraj has previously represented Pakistan at Miss Earth, Miss Global, Miss Cosmo, Miss Eco International and Miss Aura International. She has also won four titles at the Freedom of the World competition in Kosovo.
This marks the first time Pakistan is participating in the Miss World contest, but it is not the country’s first foray into international pageants. In recent years, Pakistan’s participation in the Miss Universe pageant has been celebrated, with Erica Robin and Roma Riaz both representing the country and winning hearts.
