In a scene unthinkable just a year ago, Shamss Tallal, an elfin 18-year-old, drew whistles of approval from the audience during the question and answer stage.

“She is very beautiful,” said 20-year-old Salwan, his friend Hussain, also 20, red-faced with excitement. He clutched his chest and mimed his heart beating faster, as he looked at her longingly.

“I don’t know her, but she is the most popular,” a third friend, Ahmad, 19, said.

Miss Talla later won the contest, with a straw poll of audience members revealing she was also the people’s choice.