Israel to host the 70th Miss Universe pageant

For the first time in history, the 70th Miss Universe (Miss Universe 2021) pageant will be hosted in Israel.

Israel's Tourism Ministry and the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) made the official announcement on Tuesday, July 20.

A Middle Eastern country on the Mediterranean Sea, Israel is regarded by Jews, Christians, and Muslims as the biblical Holy Land.

"Israel has been on our shortlist of host countries for a number of years due to its rich history, beautiful landscapes, myriad of cultures, and appeal as a global tourist destination," the MUO President Paula Shugart said.

The international pageant is set to take place this December in the country's southernmost city of Eilat, a southern Israeli port and resort town on the Red Sea, near Jordan. It is renowned for its spectacular combination of the surrounding desert landscape, the beautiful bay, and the summer sun that shines all year round.

Mexico's Andrea Meza will crown her successor at the end of the event that will air live on FOX and Telemundo. The date of the final competition is yet to be announced.

American television presenter Steve Harvey has been confirmed to return as host.

Miss Universe 2020 Andrea Meza

Photos: Miss Universe Organization

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