Latest news with #UNWTO
What's On
18 hours 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
Leaders
2 days 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
Times of Oman
2 days ago
- General
- Times of Oman
Speaker of Arab Parliament congratulates Shaikha Al Nowais on her election as UNWTO Secretary General
Cairo: Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Yamahi, Speaker of the Arab Parliament, has congratulated Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on her election as Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for the term 2026-2029. This historic achievement marks her as the first woman from the region to assume this position since UNWTO's founding in 1975, representing another milestone that reinforces the UAE's leadership position on the global tourism map. In a statement issued on Saturday, Al Yamahi praised this major accomplishment, which embodies the exceptional successes achieved by Emirati women both regionally and internationally. He attributed these successes to the unlimited support and insightful vision of the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who gives great attention to empowering women and creating a supportive environment for them to play a central role in the UAE's comprehensive development across all sectors. He added that this achievement is also a reflection of the tireless efforts of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF), in supporting and empowering Emirati women across all fields of work and leadership, enabling them to reach the highest regional and international positions. Al Yamahi emphasised that the election of Shaikha Al Nowais to this high-level international position highlights the UAE's prestigious position in the field of global tourism and its international leadership in the sector. It adds to the nation's honourable track record in various global forums. He stated that this achievement is a source of pride not only for the UAE but for all Arabs. It strengthens the presence of Arab women in global decision-making positions and proves the capability of Emirati professionals to lead international organisations with competence and distinction.
Sharjah 24
2 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.
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE President congratulates Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on historic appointment at UNWTO
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has congratulated Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on her appointment as Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). The UAE President took to X to extend his wishes to Shaikha Nasser — the first woman to hold this position at the organisation. "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," he wrote. Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also took to X to congratulate the new Secretary-General at UNWTO. "She is a graduate of Zayed University, has 15 years of experience in the tourism sector, and has received numerous tourism awards and accolades. She is the first woman in the organization's fifty-year history to hold this position. She aspires to bring about a global transformation in the tourism sector," the Dubai Ruler wrote. "Our young men and women represent our country and raise its name and flag high. We are proud of them, we rejoice for them, we brag about them to the world, and we advise them to represent the UAE with the name, status, and achievements it deserves," he added.
