Priyancka Naik, who is originally from Chinchinim, has won Miss UAE International 2026, along with the title of Miss Fitness Queen, at an event held recently in Dubai. In conversation with NT BUZZ
KALYANI JHA | NT BUZZ
How does it feel to be Miss UAE International?
Being crowned Miss UAE International 2026 and Miss Fitness Queen is a very emotional and proud moment for me. I feel honoured and grateful, especially because I have been living in the UAE for the past 12 years. So this country has become a very important part of my journey.
What made you take up this opportunity?
Fitness has always been a big part of my life, and I wanted to challenge myself by stepping outside my comfort zone. When this opportunity came along, it felt like the right platform to combine my passion for fitness with my desire to inspire others.
How long have you been preparing for this?
I prepared for the pageant for five months, focusing on my fitness, stage presence and confidence. Balancing the preparation with my corporate career was challenging, but it taught me discipline, time management, and consistency.
Tell us about your experience at
the contest.
The pageant was a wonderful experience. It brought together women from different nationalities. It was not just about beauty, it was about confidence, personality, talent and having a purpose. It was a challenging competition because there were many talented contestants. I focused on staying true to myself, remaining calm under pressure and giving my best on the stage. My fitness journey taught me discipline and resilience, which helped me throughout the competition. I focused on giving my best rather than comparing myself with others.
What comes next for you?
For me, the crown is not the end but the beginning of a new responsibility. I want to use this platform to promote fitness and healthy living and encourage people to make time for their health.
