Miss Universe picks Omar Harfouch as Judge in Elite Panel led by Raul Rocha

With 130 countries sending their extraordinary representatives to this year’s Miss Universe competition in Bangkok, the assignment of choosing one winner is perhaps one of the most difficult tasks of all.

For this reason, Miss Universe President and owner Raul Rocha invited renowned concert pianist and composer Omar Harfouch to join the official panel of judges for the November event, according to Harfouch's story publication on Instagram.

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 Since 1952, Miss Universe has been committed to excellence—not just in beauty, but in poise, intelligence, leadership, and empowerment. The winner is expected to meet all the expectations that come with the crown, including representing a new, forward-thinking standard of elegance combined with humanitarian responsibility. Because of this, the selection process demands a jury made up of individuals who live and breathe giftedness every single day.

 The decision was finalized during a meeting held on Raul Rocha’s private yacht in Saint-Tropez, where both men were spending part of their summer. While the French Riviera welcomed its usual wave of A-list celebrities—namely the recently married Jeff Bezos, Leonardo DiCaprio, Adrien Brody, and many more—Raul and Omar focused on ensuring that the next Miss Universe exceeds the highest possible standards.

 Omar Harfouch, composer of the award-winning Concerto for Peace and a performer recognized the world over, has earned respect not only as a musician but also as a public figure who has staunchly advocated for global camaraderie through his myriad of masterful works.

His presence in the pageant adds to the long list of highly qualified professionals who are sure to do an exceptional job in selecting the deserving titleholder. Judging a group of groundbreaking, brilliant, and charismatic women requires someone who can see beyond stage performance and pageantry—and Omar is up for the challenge.

Khaleej Times Staff

webteam@khaleejtimes.com