Latest news with #UNTourismGeneralAssembly
CairoScene
a day ago
- Business
- CairoScene
Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated as First Woman to Lead UN Tourism
The Emirati executive could become the first woman Secretary-General in the UN agency's 50-year history. Shaikha Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates has been officially nominated to serve as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). If elected, she would be the first woman to lead the agency since its founding in 1975. The nomination was confirmed during the 123rd session of the UN Tourism Executive Council, held in Segovia, Spain. Al Nowais received 24 votes in the final round, surpassing candidates from Greece, Mexico, and Ghana. Her appointment is hoped to be ratified at the UN Tourism General Assembly later this year, which will be hosted in Saudi Arabia. Al Nowais brings over 16 years of experience in the global tourism and hospitality sector, most notably serving as Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels. She is also a board member of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber's Tourism Working Group, and sits on the advisory board of Les Roches Hospitality Academy. Her proposed leadership vision for UN Tourism centres on promoting responsible tourism, increasing opportunities for women and youth, leveraging digital transformation, and encouraging innovative financing and inclusive governance across the sector. If confirmed, Al Nowais will begin her four-year term in January 2026, succeeding current Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.
Filipino Times
3 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.
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sheikha Fatima congratulates Al Nowais on UNWTO appointment
Recognition of UAE's vision for women empowerment Sheikha Fatima affirmed that this achievement reflects the success of the UAE leadership's vision for empowering Emirati women—initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and advanced by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. This approach fosters women's capabilities and supports their advancement across all fields. A milestone in Emirati women's global contributions She praised the essential role of Emirati women in various domains, noting that this achievement is not only a result of national empowerment strategies but also a testament to Emirati women's ambition to serve their nation and humanity. She stressed that this milestone enhances the UAE's global model of women's empowerment. International confidence in Emirati leadership Sheikha Fatima highlighted that Sheikha Al Nowais's election—the first woman to hold the UNWTO Secretary-General position—demonstrates international confidence in Emirati excellence. She expressed confidence in Al Nowais's potential to lead global tourism transformation and promote sustainable development. Emirati women as key development partners Sheikha Fatima concluded by reaffirming that Emirati women will remain integral partners in national development and global representation, carrying forward the UAE's message of human empowerment and sustainable progress. UNWTO appointment and background of Sheikha Al Nowais The UNWTO confirmed that Sheikha Al Nowais will begin her term in January 2026, pending formal approval by the UN Tourism General Assembly. This marks a landmark achievement as she will be the first woman to lead the organisation in its 50-year history. Al Nowais is a seasoned Emirati business leader with over 16 years of global hospitality experience. As Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, she oversees owner relations in regions including the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkiye. She holds a Finance degree from Zayed University and serves on multiple leadership boards, including the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy.
