The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) has elected Shaikha Al Nowais as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism. She will be the first woman to lead the organization since its establishment in 1975, marking 50 years of its history.
Nowais is set to begin her term in January 2026 after the retirement of Zurab Pololikashvili, the current Secretary-General.
The decision of Nowais’ appointment was taken in the 123rd session of the UN Tourism council meeting held at Spain on May 30.
As a Secretary-General, Nowais aims to focus on sustainability, digital transformation, economic empowerment, ethical governance and cultural exchange. Her goal is to build an inclusive and innovative tourism sector that helps drive global prosperity.
According to her official website, Nowais’ vision is “to lead UN Tourism in promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism that stimulates economic growth and enriches global communities.”
Nowais, an Emirati business leader, has over 16 years of experience in the global hospitality industry. She is currently the corporate vice-president of owner relationship management at the Rotana hotel chain, where she manages owner relations across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and Turkey.
She has extensive experience in corporate governance, sustainability and economic development and is known for her strategic vision in advancing global tourism initiatives.
A graduate from Zayed University, Dubai majoring in Finance, Nowais also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber's Tourism Working Group and serves on the boards of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy.
Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Yamahi, Speaker of the Arab Parliament, has congratulated Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on her election as the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism.
In a statement, Al Yamahi praised the achievement as a reflection of the great success of Emirati women at both regional and international levels. He credited this progress to the strong support and vision of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who continues to empower women and support their role in the UAE’s development.
He stated that this achievement is a source of pride for the UAE and the entire Arab world. It strengthens the presence of Arab women in global decision-making positions and shows that Emirati professionals can lead international organisations with skill and excellence.
Nowais is set to begin her term in January 2026 after the retirement of Zurab Pololikashvili, the current Secretary-General.
The decision of Nowais’ appointment was taken in the 123rd session of the UN Tourism council meeting held at Spain on May 30.
The United Arab Emirates achieves a historic milestone with the election of Her Excellency Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of the United Nations Tourism Organization for the term 2026–2029. As the first woman and first Emirati to hold this position. pic.twitter.com/Y66k7q12mG
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) May 30, 2025
As a Secretary-General, Nowais aims to focus on sustainability, digital transformation, economic empowerment, ethical governance and cultural exchange. Her goal is to build an inclusive and innovative tourism sector that helps drive global prosperity.
According to her official website, Nowais’ vision is “to lead UN Tourism in promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism that stimulates economic growth and enriches global communities.”
Nowais, an Emirati business leader, has over 16 years of experience in the global hospitality industry. She is currently the corporate vice-president of owner relationship management at the Rotana hotel chain, where she manages owner relations across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and Turkey.
She has extensive experience in corporate governance, sustainability and economic development and is known for her strategic vision in advancing global tourism initiatives.
A graduate from Zayed University, Dubai majoring in Finance, Nowais also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber's Tourism Working Group and serves on the boards of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy.
Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Yamahi, Speaker of the Arab Parliament, has congratulated Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on her election as the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism.
In a statement, Al Yamahi praised the achievement as a reflection of the great success of Emirati women at both regional and international levels. He credited this progress to the strong support and vision of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who continues to empower women and support their role in the UAE’s development.
He stated that this achievement is a source of pride for the UAE and the entire Arab world. It strengthens the presence of Arab women in global decision-making positions and shows that Emirati professionals can lead international organisations with skill and excellence.
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