Shaikha Al Nowais Makes History as First Emirati to Lead UN Tourism
In a historic milestone for gender equality and global tourism leadership, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates has been elected as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). Her term will run from 2026 to 2029, making her the first woman and first Emirati national to hold this prestigious position.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan congratulated Shaikha Al Nowais on her appointment, highlighting the achievement as a testament to the nation’s commitment to empowering women in leadership roles. Prior to this appointment, she served as Vice President of Owner Relations at Rotana Hotel Management Corporation, bringing extensive expertise in hospitality and tourism management.
The UAE has long been a key player in advancing sustainable tourism, and Al Nowais’s election reinforces the country’s growing influence in the sector. In her statement, she emphasized the challenges facing global tourism, including climate change, technological disruption, and geopolitical shifts. “The tourism industry stands at a crossroads, demanding visionary and sustainable leadership,” she said. “My focus will be on scaling successful tourism models across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Latin America to ensure inclusive and resilient growth.”
The UAE’s dedication to tourism development is well-documented. In 2024, the country ranked first in the Middle East and 18th globally in the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index. The sector is projected to contribute 236 billion dirhams ($64.3 billion) to the UAE’s economy this year, accounting for 12% of its GDP, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council.
Al Nowais’s leadership marks a new chapter for UN Tourism, with expectations high for innovative strategies that balance growth with sustainability. Her appointment also signals progress in gender representation, aligning with the UAE’s broader efforts to promote women in high-impact roles on the international stage.
Source: The National
