Meet Salwa Maloof Habib, 2027 Carnaval de Barranquilla Queen
Barranquilla has unveiled the woman who will lead its most anticipated celebration. Salwa Maloof Habib is the new 2027 Barranquilla Carnival Queen!
The announcement arrived on Friday, August 21, when Katia Nule, the city’s first lady, visited Maloof at home to share the news. At 24, the new carnival queen brings together dance, cultural tradition, international studies, and community leadership.
A lifelong connection to Carnival
Salwa Maloof Habib began dancing as a child. She trained at the academies of Julie de Donado and Marly Hernández before continuing with the Nativos group.
Today, she performs with the cumbiamba La Misma Vaina. Through this traditional dance group, she remains closely connected to the music, movement, and folklore that define Barranquilla Carnival.
Her family also has strong ties to the celebration. Salwa is the daughter of Dieb Maloof and Shadya Habib. Her sister, Samia Maloof Habib, served as Queen of the Children’s Carnival in 2024.
From international relations to social impact
Maloof studied International Relations at IE University in Spain. She also completed United Nations programs focused on negotiation, international cooperation, and strategic project management.
In addition, she speaks Spanish, English, and French. That background will support her role as a cultural ambassador for Barranquilla and Colombia.
Beyond the carnival stage, Salwa directs Clínica Internacional La Misericordia and leads the Fulamic Foundation. Since 2016, the organization has supported children, young people, and vulnerable families through health, education, psychosocial assistance, and community programs.
Fulamic reports more than 4,000 direct beneficiaries and over 10,000 indirect impacts. Its FULARUN charity race attracts thousands of runners and spectators while raising funds for children with high-cost illnesses.
A new ambassador for Barranquilla
The Carnival of Barranquilla runs from February 6 to 9, 2027. The celebration will feature major parades, live music, traditional dances, elaborate costumes, and the unmistakable energy of the Caribbean coast.
As queen, Salwa Maloof Habib will lead the pre-carnival season and represent one of Colombia’s most important cultural celebrations. For visitors, expats, and residents, her reign offers another reason to experience Barranquilla’s traditions from the inside.
Where can I buy tickets to the 2027 Barranquilla Carnival?
Looking for palco tickets to the 2027 Barranquilla Carnival? Visit our Carnival Experiences page.
Read our Travel Guide: 2027 Barranquilla Carnival; your best source for staying update-to-date on all pre-carnival and carnival events.
