Miss World 2005, the 55th edition of the Miss World pageant, was held on 10 December 2005 at the Crown of Beauty Theatre in Sanya, China. María Julia Mantilla of Peru crowned her successor Unnur Birna Vilhjálmsdóttir of Iceland.[1] 102 contestants from all over the world competed for the crown. All contestants competed in three "fast track" events, Beach Beauty, Miss Talent, and Beauty With a Purpose contests. The winner of each competition immediately became one of the fifteen pageant semi-finalists. She became the third Icelandic woman to win Miss World.
Kazakhstan – Miss Kazakhstan 2005, Dina Nuraliyeva did not compete for unknown reasons. However she participated in Miss Universe 2006 and Miss World 2009 where she became Top 16.
South Africa – Miss South Africa 2005 & Top 15 at Miss Universe 2005, Claudia Henkel was unable to participate because she had to crown her successor 2 days after the Miss World 2005 contest.[6]
Thailand – Miss Thailand World 2005, Angela (Aschara) McKay resigned her title just 10 days after winning because she wanted to pursue her studies and modeling work in New York City.[7] 1st Runner-up, Sirinda (Cindy) Jensen took over the Miss Thailand World 2005 title.[8]