Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais Becomes First Woman to Lead UN Tourism

In a historic achievement for gender equality and the global tourism sector, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais has become the first-ever woman to lead UN Tourism. Her appointment was confirmed during the 123rd UN Tourism Executive Council session in Segovia, Spain, and will be formally ratified by the UN General Assembly. She is set to assume office in January 2026 for a four-year term, breaking a 50-year precedent since the organisation’s founding in 1975.

Breaking a 50-Year Barrier

Shaikha Al Nowais’s appointment marks a significant milestone in international leadership. She will head the United Nations specialised agency for promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism.

• UAE Leadership Response: President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised the appointment as a reflection of the UAE’s commitment to women’s empowerment and global cooperation.
• Dedication: Al Nowais dedicated her achievement to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, acknowledging her as a key supporter of Emirati women.

A Trailblazing Emirati Leader

With over 16 years of professional experience, Shaikha Al Nowais has held prominent positions in both business and tourism,

• Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels
• Chair, Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group
• Board Member, Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council

Her expertise in corporate governance, strategic development, and tourism management equips her to lead UN Tourism through complex global challenges while enhancing the UAE’s reputation for diversity and leadership excellence.

Vision for Global Tourism

As Secretary-General, Shaikha Al Nowais plans to implement a Five-Pillar Vision,

• Responsible Tourism: Promoting environmentally conscious and sustainable travel practices.
• Digital Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of AI and technology in tourism operations.
• Sustainable Financing: Strengthening global investment in tourism infrastructure and development.
• Youth and Women Empowerment: Expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in the tourism industry.
• Transparent Governance: Ensuring accountability and best practices in international tourism management.

Her leadership is expected to set new global benchmarks for inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to women in international governance.

Key Facts

• Term Duration: Four years, beginning January 2026.
• Confirmation: 123rd UN Tourism Executive Council session in Spain.
• Previous Roles: Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, Chair of Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group, Board Member of Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council.
• Vision Focus: Responsible tourism, digital innovation, sustainable financing, youth & women empowerment, and transparent governance.