Latest news with #ShaikhaAlNowais
Hospitality Net
2 hours ago
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated as First Woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism as Executive Council Builds on Strong Legacy
The UN Tourism Executive Council has met again for a milestone session to build on the legacy of the last eight years. Meeting for its 123rd session, the Council assessed progress made around the priorities of innovation, investments and education and looked ahead with the nomination of Shaikha Al Nowais as new Secretary-General from 2026. Upon confirmation by the UN Tourism General Assembly, Ms. Shaikha Al Nowais will become the woman to hold the position. According to the May 2025 World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, over 300 million tourists travelled internationally in the first three months of 2025, about 14 million more than in the same months of 2024. On the back of this positive data, Member States were given an overview of the progress made in key areas designed to build a more innovation, resilient and sustainable sector. Over the last eight years, UN Tourism has embraced a transformative vision. We have put tourism at the forefront of the global agenda to enhance its competitiveness and economic value. And we have never lost sight of our key priorities: education, investments, sustainable and rural development, women empowerment, new technologies, and international expansion. Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili Shaikha Al Nowais nominated to make history as first female UN Tourism head Following protocol, the Council elected Shaikha Al Nowais as the next Secretary-General, to begin in January 2026. Her nomination will be put to the UN Tourism General Assembly for their approval. The nomination represents a landmark first for the sector, as the first woman leader of UN Tourism in its 50-year history. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais is an Emirati business leader with over 16 years of experience in global hospitality. As Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, she has overseen owner relations across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey. A graduate of Zayed University in Finance, she 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. Celebrating shared progress In Segovia, Secretary-General Pololikashvili presented a comprehensive report reviewing the outcomes of his eight-year mandate. The report was built around the main outcomes of the approved Programme of Work, namely: Tourism Insights, including Key data trends shaping the industry's future. Tourism Knowhow, including the development of tourism products. Investments and Innovation, supporting the core drivers of growth Sustainability, with a focus on initiatives aligning with the SDGs. Education and Human Capital development to build a strong, skilled workforce. UN Tourism on the ground and its assistance to Member States. Budget allocation and Human Resources. Highlights included strengthened tourism data systems, expanded rural tourism initiatives (including the Best Tourism Villages and STAR tool), new programming in gastronomy, sports, and urban tourism, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence and social innovation into the Organization's broader agenda. Member States were also updated on the significant growth in the UN Tourism Online Academy, new International Academies in Association with UN Tourism, and record foreign direct investment figures. Strengthening global presence and new Innovation Office for Africa The Council also welcomed updates on the development of Thematic and Regional offices. On the eve of the Executive Council Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and Tourism Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco Fatim-Zahra Ammor and UN Tourism formalized an agreement to create he first UN Tourism Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa in Rabat. The office will advance UN Tourism's 2030 Agenda for Africa, and aims to position tourism as a key driver of development through innovation across the region. About UN Tourism UN Tourism is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. An intergovernmental organization, UN Tourism has 160 Member States, 6 Associate Members, 2 Observers and over 500 Affiliate Members. The General Assembly is the supreme organ of the Organization. The Executive Council takes all measures, in consultation with the Secretary-General, for the implementation of the decisions and recommendations of the General Assembly and reports to the Assembly. UN Tourism headquarters are based in Madrid, Spain. The election for Secretary General will be in May 2025. UN Tourism Communications Department +34 91 567 8100 UN Tourism
Leaders
a day ago
- Business
- Leaders
Albudaiwi Congratulates Shaikha Al Nowais on Historic UNWTO Appointment
Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Shaikha Al Nowais on her election as Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for the 2026–2029 term. Albudaiwi expressed deep pride in Al Nowais becoming the first Emirati and Gulf woman to assume this prestigious role in the organization's five-decade history. He emphasized that this milestone highlights both the esteemed international standing of the United Arab Emirates and the growing global influence of women leaders from the Gulf region. He noted that her election reflects the world's trust in the capabilities and leadership of Gulf women. Finally, he concluded by wishing Shaikha Al Nowais continued success in her new role and extended his best wishes for the UAE's ongoing security, prosperity, and progress under its wise leadership. Related Topics : UNWTO Recognizes Abo Noghta Castles, Tabab among World's Best Tourism Villages Saudi Arabia Gives Green Light to Licensed Companies to Export Flour Saudi Paper Manufacturing Company Signs €24.9M Deal with ABC Bank Crown Prince Announces 'Al-Alat Company Launch Saudi Pavilion Secures New York Architectural Design Awards at Expo Osaka 2025 Short link : Post Views: 2 Related Stories
Filipino Times
a day ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais makes history as first woman to lead UN Tourism
In a landmark moment for global tourism and women's leadership, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais has been officially nominated as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism — becoming the first woman in the organization's 50-year history to assume the top role. The nomination took place during the 123rd session of the UN Tourism Executive Council held in Madrid, Spain. Shaikha Al Nowais is set to begin her mandate in January 2026, pending formal approval by the UN Tourism General Assembly. Global and regional leaders have welcomed her nomination with high praise. UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, said: 'Congratulations to Sheikha Al Nowais on becoming Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation. As the first woman to assume this important role, her appointment reaffirms the UAE's commitment to empowering Emirati women in leadership and reflects the vital role of the tourism sector as a driver of sustainable economic growth.' His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said, 'A graduate of Zayed University, she brings with her 15 years of distinguished experience in the tourism sector and has received numerous accolades and awards. She becomes the first woman in the organization's 50-year history to hold this position and aspires to lead a global transformation in the tourism industry.' 'Our youth — both women and men — continue to represent the UAE with pride, raising its name, flag, and contributions on the global stage. We are proud of their achievements. We urge them to uphold the UAE's reputation, values, and accomplishments in all that they do.' Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, added, 'The nomination of the UAE's Shaikha Al Nowais for the position of UN Tourism Secretary-General underscores the reputation enjoyed by the UAE in the tourism field and its important and effective role in promoting the growth and sustainability of the global tourism sector.' From the private sector, Dr. Karen Remo, CEO and Founder of New Perspective Media Group, a UN Tourism-accredited member, said, 'Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais's nomination as the first woman to lead UN Tourism marks a turning point for global tourism — one driven by resilience, inclusion, and sustainability. It reflects the UAE's rising leadership in shaping the future of the industry. We at NPM Group proudly support this transformative moment.' Dr. Ladislas Prosper Agbesi, Chairman of the Pan African Business Forum (PABF), who campaigned for Al Nowais nominations, said: 'Ms. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais is the most suitable candidate to fill the position of Secretary-General of the UNWTO from 2025 onwards.' Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais is an Emirati business leader with over 16 years of experience in global hospitality. As Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, she has overseen owner relations across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey. A graduate of Zayed University in Finance, she 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. Shaikha Al Nowais has pledged to make her term a turning point for global tourism, aiming to prioritize environmental protection, unlock broader economic opportunities, and build a more sustainable, inclusive future for communities around the world. Her leadership comes at a time when the tourism industry is striving to recover from past disruptions and is being called upon to embrace a more resilient and equitable future.
Time of India
a day ago
- Business
- Time of India
Historic First: Emirati business leader Shaikha Al Nowais appointed first woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism
Shaikha Al Nowais (Image credit: Shaikha Al Nowais official webiste) 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. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Heads Turn As Walgreens Shoppers Discover 87¢ ED Pills fridayplans Learn More Undo 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.
Travel Daily News
3 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Shaikha Al Nowais elected UN Tourism Secretary-General
Shaikha Al Nowais secures the UN Tourism Secretary-General post, becoming the first woman to lead the agency. Gloria Guevara graciously concedes, reflecting on the competitive global election. Today, the global tourism community turned its attention to Madrid, where the Executive Council of UN Tourism gathered to decide the organization's strategic leadership for the 2026–2029 term. In a historic decision, Shaikha Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates secured the council's nomination as the next Secretary-General, marking the first time a woman will hold the top position in the agency's 50-year history. Al Nowais, a corporate vice president at Rotana Hotels in Abu Dhabi, emerged as the frontrunner early in the voting process, clinching 16 votes in the first round and ultimately securing a projected 24 votes in the second round — well above the minimum 18 required. Her closest competitor, Greece's Harry Theoharis, who played a key role in Greece's tourism recovery during the COVID-19 crisis, received 11 votes. The selection now awaits formal approval by the United Nations General Assembly before Al Nowais takes office in January 2026. A vision for transformation In her remarks following the nomination, Al Nowais emphasized the transformational agenda she intends to bring to global tourism governance: 'As an Emirati woman, I'm honored to make history as the first woman worldwide to win the nomination for Secretary-General of UN Tourism (2026–2029). My vision rests on five pillars that will transform global tourism: Responsible Tourism — protecting our planet, cultures, and communities; Capacity Building — empowering women, youth, and local leaders; Technology for Good — innovation that enhances lives while safeguarding privacy; Innovative Financing — creating sustainable funding models for lasting growth; and Smart Governance — delivering transparent, accountable leadership. For a sustainable tourism future that serves communities around the world.' Her leadership represents not only a milestone for gender representation but also a strategic shift in the agency's priorities, particularly as Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its position as a global tourism hub with recent projects like the announcement of a Disneyland park and a Las Vegas-style Sphere entertainment venue. Gloria Guevara's gracious exit Among the five other candidates vying for the post, Mexico's Gloria Guevara, one of the most recognized voices in global tourism, was considered a strong contender but was eliminated in the first round after receiving eight votes. Guevara, who has more than 35 years of experience and served as Mexico's Minister of Tourism, offered a gracious concession and public congratulations to her opponent: 'Following today's vote of UN Tourism in Spain, I would like to thank President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and the Government of Mexico for their unwavering support throughout my campaign. I am also grateful to all the leaders who endorsed my candidacy, and to my amazing team who stood by me on this journey. Congratulations to the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism — I wish her success in this important role.' Guevara's platform centered on building tourism resilience, sustainability, and inclusivity, particularly in the Global South. Despite her exit, her candidacy underscored Mexico's continued leadership ambitions within global tourism circles. Africa's ambitions and lessons learned Ghana's Muhammed Adam, the African Union's officially endorsed candidate, received just two votes and was also eliminated in the first round. His defeat raised important questions about the coherence and effectiveness of African diplomatic coordination in multilateral tourism leadership contests. Despite the setback, Adam's campaign brought attention to critical issues such as strengthening the voice of developing countries and securing greater technical and financial support for underrepresented regions. Strategic challenges ahead Al Nowais will inherit an organization facing significant challenges, including declining membership after the departure of key countries like the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., who have questioned the value proposition of UN Tourism. She will be tasked with rebuilding trust, enhancing operational transparency, and aligning the agency's initiatives with the rapidly evolving needs of the global tourism sector — particularly in the post-pandemic landscape. For travel and hospitality professionals, the coming years under Al Nowais' leadership will be closely watched as a test of how global governance structures can effectively support sustainable growth, innovation, and inclusivity in tourism. Update: Statement by Harry Theoharis on the Conclusion of the UN Tourism Secretary-General Election 'I fully respect the decision of the Executive Council of the UN Tourism to elect Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as the next Secretary-General. I extend to her my warmest congratulations and sincere wishes for every success in her new role, with the hope that the Organization will move forward decisively—toward a more effective, modern, and inclusive future. Although I was not elected, I am proud of the journey we undertook. We conducted a campaign defined by integrity, consistency, and global reach—conducted with dignity and clear purpose. My candidacy positioned Greece as a constructive voice in international dialogue, offering concrete proposals for a tourism sector that is resilient, sustainable, and fair. It reaffirmed our country's institutional presence on the global stage. If the principles that guided our vision—transparency, green development, and the empowerment of local communities—contribute in any way to shaping the Organization's future course, it would be for me a deeply meaningful and lasting reward. I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to my family, my dedicated team, the Minister of Tourism Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the private sector partners whose support helped bring this campaign to life. Αbove all, I thank Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis for his trust and invaluable support. Without their belief in this vision, this journey would never have begun. This campaign was, for me, not only a political endeavour but a national one. Greece has gained international recognition and credibility—and that, regardless of the electoral outcome, is our most important achievement. My involvement in the field of tourism will continue. I remain present, committed, and ready to contribute wherever I can be of service—with ideas, proposals, and action. With renewed determination, I continue in my responsibilities as a Member of the Hellenic Parliament with New Democracy, fully dedicated to representing the needs of our citizens and fulfilling our collective mission. One chapter closes. A new one begins. We move forward—with knowledge, experience, and the firm belief that Greece deserves more. Thank you.'
