In a historic milestone for global tourism leadership, Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates has been appointed as the first female Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Her term is set to commence in January 2026, pending ratification by the UNWTO General Assembly later this year in Saudi Arabia.
Sheikha Al Nowais brings over 16 years of experience in the hospitality sector, currently serving as the Corporate Vice President of Owner Relationship Management at Rotana Hotels. She also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group and is a board member of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council. A graduate of Zayed University with a degree in Business Administration and Finance, her leadership is expected to focus on sustainable tourism, digital equity, and inclusive governance.
UAE leaders have praised her appointment. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan congratulated her, stating that her leadership reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to empowering Emirati women and highlights the vital role of tourism in sustainable economic growth. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also praised her achievements and aspirations to transform the global tourism sector.
Sheikha Al Nowais’s election followed a competitive process during the 123rd Executive Council meeting in Segovia, Spain. Ghanaian, Mexican, and Greek candidates were defeated by her. The incumbent Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili of Georgia, withdrew his candidacy for a third term, aligning with the organization’s statutes.
