Latest news with #ShaikhaNasserAlNowais
The National
3 days ago
- Business
- The National
UN roles are an opportunity to guide global conversations
Although we live in a world increasingly defined by shifting alliances and new relationships, the UN is still regarded by most as an indispensable forum for international co-operation. Its reputation is such that for a country or one of its citizens to be chosen for a leadership role remains a major achievement. In the case of the UAE, which was recently elected to the presidency of UN Habitat and saw Emirati Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais chosen as the first female head of the UN World Tourism Organisation, it would be understandable if two such high-profile appointments were regarded as some kind of diplomatic prize. Instead, the country is focusing on the important work at hand and what it can bring to the table. In the case of tourism, the UAE is well placed to guide the global conversation about a consequential sector that the World Travel and Tourism Council says was worth a record-breaking $11.1 trillion last year and employed 348 million people. Having an Emirati businesswoman with more than 16 years' experience in the hospitality sector at the helm of UN Tourism will help to share the UAE's experience at the highest level. That experience – of a country with a history of commercial tourism strategically investing to develop a cosmopolitan sector featuring luxury travel, heritage offerings, international sports events as well as world-class museums and attractions – is one that will enrich the UN body's know-how as it navigates the social and economic challenges posed by unprecedented levels of travel in the 21st century. Know-how is also a defining factor in the UAE's new role at the helm of UN Habitat, the organisation's body devoted to building a better, more sustainable urban future. Again, policy decisions made in the Emirates amid its rapid development journey give the country insights that will inform the global agenda. Major state-led urban planning in growing cities such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, a focus on renewable energy, such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, and the increasing adoption of greener public transport choices like the Etihad Rail project give the country a substantial policy base from which to work with international partners at the UN level. Post-war and post-disaster reconstruction – another two important aspects of UN Habitat's work – are also areas in which the UAE can contribute, having taken part in numerous emergency aid efforts over the years as well as working on the rebuilding of important post-conflict sites, such as the landmark Al Nuri Mosque in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul. With the right policies, the right principles and the right international relationships, even relatively small countries can play their part as trust international partners Rather than being some kind of diplomatic win, the UAE's newest UN roles follow years of significant engagement with the world body. The Emirates has served two terms on the UN Security Council and played a prominent leadership role with its stewardship of 2023's Cop28 climate summit in Dubai. In addition, the UAE is a strong partner for building bridges through its growing relationship with the Global South and memberships of other international groups, such as the Brics group of nations. By regularly hosting major international conferences and summits, the Emirates also has a bedrock of diplomatic experience that underpins its UN work. What the UN Tourism and Habitat appointments reveal is that with the right policies, the right principles and the right international relationships, a country 52 years young can play their part as trusted international partners, even in an age of uncertainty.
Web Release
3 days ago
- Business
- Web Release
UAE ministers hail election of Shaikha Al Nowais as UN Tourism Secretary-General as a historic milestone in global tourism leadership
Several UAE ministers hailed the election of Emirati H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism as a historic and commendable achievement for the country on both the regional and global stage. This accomplishment reflects the UAE's leading position in tourism and the success of its strategic vision to support international efforts in developing a sustainable and responsible tourism sector that drives economic and social development for communities around the world. H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the UAE Tourism Council, said: 'Thanks to the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE today celebrates a new historic milestone in its tourism sector: the election of the UAE's candidate, H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais, as Secretary-General of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term. This achievement reflects the UAE's pioneering and influential role in leading global efforts toward sustainable tourism development, in close cooperation with international decision-makers and organizations across the global tourism landscape. It also reaffirms the success of the UAE's strategic vision in strengthening openness to the world and building robust international partnerships that support its aspirations as a premier tourism destination, both regionally and globally.' H.E. Bin Touq added: 'We are proud to have earned the trust of the international community in our national capabilities, as reflected in the election of Shaikha Al Nowais – the first Emirati and Arab young woman – to the position of UN Tourism Secretary-General. This milestone highlights the competence of our young national talent and their ability to gain international confidence in leading high-level roles within specialized sectors such as tourism. It also reaffirms the prominent status that Arab women have achieved on both regional and global stages.' H.E. also commended her extensive experience and capabilities in representing the UAE at the highest international levels, as well as her comprehensive vision for strengthening global cooperation to achieve sustainable and responsible tourism development. Her leadership is expected to elevate the tourism sector to new heights of progress and prosperity while contributing meaningfully to the implementation of UN Tourism projects and initiatives. H.E. pointed out that the UAE's tourism sector achieved exceptional growth in 2024, driven by the launch of several key national initiatives designed to promote tourism within the country and attract international visitors. Notable developments included the fifth season of the 'World's Coolest Winter' campaign, the inauguration of the National Tourism Charter, and the adoption of the International Code for the Protection of Tourists—implemented in collaboration with UN Tourism as a guiding framework. These initiatives collectively support the objectives of the National Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to position the UAE as the world's leading tourism brand by the next decade. Her Excellency Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, emphasized that the election of Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism represents a significant milestone for the UAE and a proud achievement for Emirati women. Her Excellency added: 'Her appointment as the first woman to assume this position demonstrates the international community's confidence in her capabilities and highlights the UAE's leading role in advancing sustainable development globally.' Her Excellency noted that Shaikha's distinguished career in the private sector will bring a fresh perspective to UN Tourism, with a focus on delivering tangible results and enhancing the organization's operational efficiency for the benefit of the global tourism industry. His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, said: 'Empowering and supporting Emirati women is a cornerstone of the UAE's wise leadership and its vision for a more prosperous and advanced future. The UAE continues to strengthen women's participation and contributions across all sectors, while ensuring their impactful presence on regional and international platforms. In this context, the selection of young Emirati Shaikha Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism reflects this forward-looking vision. It marks a significant step in reinforcing the UAE's global leadership in promoting a safe, sustainable, and inclusive tourism sector that drives long-term growth and development.' His Excellency added: 'The election of H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais to this prestigious international position reflects not only her competence and professional excellence but also the international community's confidence in the UAE and its standing as a trusted partner in advancing sustainable development globally. It further reaffirms the esteemed position our nation has earned both regionally and internationally.' Underscoring the significance of the historic milestone, H.E. Omar Obaid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that the election of the first Emirati woman by the UN World Tourism Organization demonstrates the continuous support and empowerment provided to Emirati women by the UAE's wise leadership. His Excellency further affirmed that the UAE's continued collaboration with the Organization and its member states has yielded tangible results. The Undersecretary expressed his confidence that Shaikha Al Nowais, with her robust expertise in tourism and hospitality, would redefine the future path of the industry's development.
What's On
3 days ago
- Business
- What's On
An Emirati has been appointed as the first female secretary general of UN Tourism
In a massive win for girl power, we now have an Emirati female leader in the UN… Congratulations are in order as another milestone has been conquered by an Emirati female – Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais has been elected as the first female head of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation – a landmark moment in the journey of female empowerment around the world, as well as a win for the Emirati community. Shaikha Nasser has previously served as corporate vice president of owners' relationship management at Rotana Hotel Management Corporation, and will be serving office for three years as secretary general of UN Tourism from 2026 to 2029. '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),' wrote Shaikha Nasser in her announcement of the appointment on her social media. She added her vision for the next three years, stating that rests on five vital pillars. '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. Smart Governance: Delivering transparent, accountable leadership. For a sustainable tourism future that serves communities around the world.' Congratulations to Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on becoming Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). As the first woman to assume this significant position, her appointment reaffirms the UAE's commitment to empowering Emirati women in leadership… — محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) May 30, 2025 His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, also sent his best wishes to the new leader, congratulating her on his social media. 'Congratulations to Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on becoming Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). As the first woman to assume this significant position, her appointment reaffirms the UAE's commitment to empowering Emirati women in leadership roles and reflects the importance of the tourism sector as a key driver of sustainable economic growth' @shaikha_nasser Images: Socials > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Filipino Times
4 days 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.
Politico
16-05-2025
- Business
- Politico
Will a Woman Finally Lead Global Tourism at the UN?
Hey all! Thanks for reading Women Rule. Feel free to reach out with any tips, questions, concerns: klong@ and ecordover@ This week, I spoke with business leader Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on her campaign to serve as the first secretary-general of the United Nations Tourism Department. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais is running to make history as the first woman secretary-general of the United Nations Tourism Department, and is making economic empowerment and opportunities for women a core component of her campaign. Nominated by the United Arab Emirates, Al Nowais is an Emirati business leader with decades of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. She currently serves as vice president of owner relationship management at Rotana, an Abu Dhabi-based hotel management corporation. Her nomination alone is historic, as she is the first Emirati woman to be backed for the role. Nominees for the secretary-general position include candidates from Ghana, Tunisia and Greece. One other woman, Gloria Guevara of Mexico, is also vying for the title. The current secretary-general, Zurab Pololikashvili, nominated by Georgia, was seeking a third term, but withdrew from the race this week after the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs rescinded their support and endorsed Al Nowais. U.N. Tourism general assemblymembers will hold a nominating ceremony May 30 for the position. If elected, Al Nowais would oversee the agency's efforts to encourage access to sustainable, responsible tourism globally. Women Rule spoke with Al Nowais on her nomination, the changing role of women in UAE business sectors — and how she aims to improve economic opportunities for women in the tourism and hospitality industry. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. I'd like to hear about one of the key components of your campaign, which is economic empowerment for women in the industry. I've been working in the tourism industry, the hotel industry particularly, for the last two decades. And as you know there's not a lot of women represented in that sector. We see numbers grow, but not as much as we want to see. It's a people-oriented type of mental industry, and it takes a lot of time and effort. You need to be on standby all the time, and it's very demanding, but they don't know the fact that when women are there, they actually do make a difference. So we started with 10 percent and today [women] represent around 28 or 30 percent of the workforce. Particularly in Saudi [Arabia], most of the nationals that join the workforce in Saudi are women, and particularly in hospitality, because they want to make a difference. They want to be part of this industry which makes a huge impact on the economy. What I would like to emphasize within this role is to make people aware of the industry, the results the industry is driving and making it more accessible for women. We want them to feel comfortable in this environment, especially an environment which is more male-dominated. Every two, three months we have a working group, where we bring all the women together. It's an open space, and it allows us to create a dialogue and know exactly what is frustrating them, the things that they would like to address, and how we can solve them. We either come up with quick wins, quick solutions, or we can at least tell them that this is something that we will think of and ensure that it gets implemented, whether it's related to nursing, whether it's related to women that have kids. How can we create the right working environment for them to be able to work comfortably knowing that their kids are in a safe place? So it's a balance. We need to make sure that there's a right balance between the work environment and between families. And this is something that we have tried and measured. What are the biggest challenges for women in business in the UAE? And more broadly, do you see any parallels in those challenges for women in the U.S.? In the UAE, we're very lucky with our leadership. They were able to see that women are able to drive results, and that's why women in the UAE are able to get to where they are. You have ministers, you have doctors, you have engineers, you have captains. And this is the reason that our leadership is trying to push women to the forefront. Every publicly-listed company in the UAE has to have at least one board member who is a woman, because they want to give the opportunities to women out there, and particularly those who have the right experience and expertise. I think the U.S. has also advanced. Many nations, not only the U.S., need more time to get to higher percentages of women in the workplace, but they're getting there. You have a significant amount of experience as a business leader in the tourism and hospitality sector in the UAE. How has gender equity always been a priority in your work? Yes, I believe we need to give people, whether women or men, the right opportunities. We have to know because it's very important in this industry to be able to determine and identify the right talent, and talent is key for us to survive and to be successful. If elected, you would be the first woman to serve as the Secretary-General of the U.N. tourism department. What would that mean for you? I'll be, obviously, very proud. I'd be honored. And it's a responsibility. I'd have to execute it and put measurable elements that would allow me to prove that my promises are accomplished. It's not just promises, but delivering. So there's a lot of things I would like to do, and one of the things I would like to focus on is women. Why is it important for you to prioritize gender equity and, more broadly, social equity in the tourism and hospitality sector? Going back to the human and emotional connection, women can be more emotionally connected. If you are emotionally connected to people, you will be able to serve them better. I have a story. Everyone has a story, but it all depends on how you relay that story, how you communicate it, how you document it, because those stories will resonate in people, and they will be able to remember, remember you with those stories, and be able to relate to those stories. And you know, give better. The World Travel and Tourism Council reported that the U.S. is set to lose roughly $12.5 billion in international travel spending, citing Trump administration policies as a deterrence for foreign visitors. I'm curious to get your thoughts on that. Tourism is a connector. It bridges between cultures and bridges between people, and it should always be focused on being a good force so people will continue to want to travel. They will continue to want to explore different destinations no matter what comes up. Tourism should remain focused as being a neutral medium and connecting between cultures and people and economies as well. POLITICO Special Report AOC's 3 a.m. Comment Over Miscarriages Sparks Fiery Exchange with GOP Male Counterparts by Ben Leonard for POLITICO: 'As the House Energy and Commerce panel entered the early morning hours Wednesday of its marathon megabill markup, Texas GOP Rep. Randy Weber told Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to address members of the committee — not the camera. Around 3 a.m., the prominent New York Democrat attempted to address a question to committee Republicans about what the consequences might be for patients having miscarriages under the GOP's proposed work requirements to qualify for Medicaid. The broader legislation would exempt pregnant patients and those undergoing postpartum care from having to work as a condition of getting Medicaid services, but does not explicitly mention whether people experiencing a loss of pregnancy would need to be actively employed during that time, too.' Justice Department Must Reinstate ABA Domestic Violence Grants, Judge Says by Daniel Barnes for POLITICO: 'The Justice Department unconstitutionally retaliated against the American Bar Association by terminating grants for a program aimed at helping victims of domestic violence, a federal judge ruled Wednesday. Five grants from DOJ's Office on Violence Against Women to the ABA's Commission on Domestic and Sexual Violence totaling $3.2 million must be reinstated and fully paid out, U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper ruled.' Democrats Grill Noem on Abrego Garcia and 2 Deported US Children by Ali Bianco for POLITICO: 'Democrats on Wednesday pressed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on what her agency is doing to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the Salvadoran national who was mistakenly sent to El Salvador, as well as the case of two American children who were recently deported by the Trump administration. In a heated House Homeland Security Committee hearing, Noem said DHS is following all federal court orders and that 'everybody has gotten due process' while later testifying that due process does not 'guarantee a hearing.'' Number of the Week Read more here. MUST READS Exclusive: Pentagon Halting Gender-Affirming Healthcare for Transgender Troops, Memo Says by Phil Stewart and Idrees Ali for Reuters: 'The Pentagon is halting gender-affirming healthcare for transgender troops as it moves to implement President Donald Trump's plan to kick them out of the U.S. military, according to a memo seen by Reuters on Monday. The instructions from the Defense Department barred any new hormone treatments as well as any surgical procedures for transgender troops, the memo said.' What Would It Mean to Defend All Abortions? by Amy Littlefield for The Nation: 'Democrats love to avoid it, and Republicans love to lie about it. Even among pro-choice voters, abortions that take place when the fetus looks less like a blob of tissue and more like a baby stir the kind of complex feelings that our political discourse seldom accommodates. As a result, later abortion has never had the widespread support that earlier abortion receives.' Gabbard Fires Leaders of Intelligence Group That Wrote Venezuela Assessment by Warren P. Strobel for The Washington Post: 'Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has fired the top two officials at the National Intelligence Council, weeks after the council wrote an assessment that contradicted President Donald Trump's rationale for invoking the Alien Enemies Act and deporting alleged Venezuelan gang members without due process. Gabbard removed Michael Collins, the acting chair of the National Intelligence Council, as well as his deputy, Maria Langan-Riekhof, according to a spokesperson for Gabbard's office.' Quote of the Week More on that here. on the move Artealia Gilliard is joining the American Clean Power Association as chief comms officer. She previously was head of environmental and sustainability comms and advocacy at Ford Motor Company. (h/t POLITICO Playbook) Taylor Weeks Armentrout is joining Axiom Space as vice president of government relations. She previously served as a senior adviser in NASA's office of legislative and intergovernmental affairs. (h/t National Security Daily) Shawnda Turner is now regional finance director for the NRSC. She previously was senior fundraising associate at Fundraising Inc. (h/t POLITICO Influence)
