Aniqa Jamal Iqbal to represent Pakistan in historic Miss World debut

Pakistan is set to make its official debut at the Miss World beauty pageant for the first time in the competition's 73-year history, with 24-year-old Aniqa Jamal Iqbal crowned Miss World Pakistan 2026.

Aniqa was officially crowned during a ceremony held at a hotel in Lahore, where she received the title from Dr Shafaq Akhtar, Miss Pakistan Universal 2022. Mr Pakistan World Ataullah Gujjar also attended the event to mark the historic occasion.

She also gained international recognition after winning four titles at the Miss Freedom of the World competition in Kosovo.

Beyond pageantry, Aniqa said she hopes to use the platform to advocate for social causes. In line with Miss World's "Beauty with a Purpose" initiative, her campaign focuses on raising awareness and support for people living with thalassaemia in Pakistan.

Sonia Ahmed, head of the organisation, described Pakistan's participation in Miss World as a landmark moment.

"Pakistan's first official participation in Miss World is not only a major milestone for national representation on a global stage but also proves that Pakistani women are proving their mettle across international platforms, just as they do in other fields," she said.

Aniqa's participation in Miss World 2026 closes one of the last remaining gaps in Pakistan's representation at major international pageants, opening a new chapter for the country on the global stage.