United Nations World Tourism Organization appoints Sheikha Al Nowais as its inaugural female Secretary-General
Historic Appointment: Sheikha Al Nowais Elected as First Female UNWTO Secretary-General
Abu Dhabi - Emirati businesswoman Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais has been elected as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), making her the first woman to hold the post in the organization's half-century history.
The groundbreaking decision, announced on May 30 at the UNWTO headquarters in Madrid, was made following a vote by 35 member states. Sheikha Al Nowais will commence her four-year term in 2026, steering the global tourism body until 2029.
The UAE's President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, praised the appointment, deeming it a notable milestone. "I extend my warmest congratulations to Sheikha Al Nowais on her new role as Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation," he said.
"Her election not only underscores the UAE's commitment to fostering female leadership but also reflects the crucial role tourism plays in driving sustainable economic growth."
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, as well as Ruler of Dubai, also lauded the momentous achievement, highlighting Sheikha Al Nowais' academic and professional achievements. "A product of Zayed University, she brings with her over a decade of esteemed experience in the tourism sector and has received numerous accolades and awards," he remarked.
"As the first woman to take on this role in the organization's 50-year history, she aspires to lead a transformative period in the global tourism industry."
Sheikh Mohammed continued, "Our youth - be they men or women - continue to represent the UAE with earnestness, raising its name, flag, and contributions on the global stage. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments."
In her inaugural statement following her election, Sheikha Al Nowais expressed deep appreciation. "I am profoundly honored by this responsibility and dedicate this historic victory to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai," she said.
She also paid tribute to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, whom she described as the "first and most enduring supporter of Emirati and Arab women."
"This shall not simply be a personal triumph - it will be a source of pride for all Emiratis and Arabs," she added. "My aim is to make it a turning point in the global tourism sector's journey toward resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability."
Al Nowais will assume the role at a pivotal time for the tourism industry, recovering from the global pandemic and grappling with climate challenges and evolving travel tendencies.
Her vision for the organization encompasses five key principles: responsible tourism, youth and women empowerment, technology-driven solutions, innovative financing, and transparent governance.
"I aspire to usher in a new era for tourism - one that prioritizes environmental protection, unlocks broader economic opportunities, and promotes sustainability around the world," she said.
"To achieve this, we must rise above the ordinary, think exponentially, and collaborate more profoundly."
Sheikha Al Nowais is a seasoned professional in the hospitality and tourism sector with over 15 years of experience in strategy development. She has garnered recognition for her commitment to sustainability, innovation, and workforce development. Previously, she served on the board of Dubai's Hotel Group under the Dubai Chambers and the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, as well as the Middle East and Africa chapter of the Hospitality Asset Managers Association (HAMA). A graduate of Zayed University with a degree in Finance, she has also received accolades such as Forbes Middle East's "Top 100 Sustainable Companies" recognition and several Business Traveller awards for hotel branding and performance.
As the first woman to lead the UNWTO since its inception in 1975, Sheikha Al Nowais' tenure is expected to mark the beginning of a new era, one characterized by innovation, equity, and environmental responsibility in the future of global tourism.
- Sheikha Al Nowais' historic appointment as the first female UNWTO Secretary-General signifies a significant milestone in the organization's 50-year history.
- The UAE's commitment to fostering female leadership is evident in Sheikha Al Nowais' election, an appointment that reflects the crucial role tourism plays in driving sustainable economic growth.
- In her inaugural statement, Sheikha Al Nowais expressed her aim to make her tenure a turning point in the global tourism sector's journey toward resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability.
- Sheikha Al Nowais' vision for the UNWTO encompasses five key principles: responsible tourism, youth and women empowerment, technology-driven solutions, innovative financing, and transparent governance.
- The tourism industry, recovering from the global pandemic and grappling with climate challenges and evolving travel trends, faces an opportune moment with Sheikha Al Nowais at the helm.
- Sheikha Al Nowais' tenure is expected to mark the beginning of a new era in global tourism, characterized by innovation, equity, and environmental responsibility.
