Latest news with #UnitedNationsWorldTourismOrganisation
What's On
4 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
Trade Arabia
21-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Fujairah Conference aims for sustainable adventure tourism
The Fujairah International Conference of Adventures Tourism, organised by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, will take place from April 30 to May 2, 2025, in Fujairah. The conference aims to align with economic diversification goals and growth strategies in the tourism industry, positioning Fujairah as a leading hub in the Middle East and globally. It will enhance Fujairah's international visibility, attract strategic investments, and establish a regional framework for sustainable adventure tourism. The conference is expected to drive new partnerships and stimulate investment. Amr Zein Eddine, Director of Fujairah Adventures Center, and Head of the Higher Organising Committee of Fujairah International Conference of Adventures Tourism, said, "Hosting this international conference marks a strategic milestone in the development of the adventure tourism sector in the region, and we are grateful for the unwavering support and guidance from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah. The choice of Fujairah as the host for this conference reflects our commitment to promoting sustainable tourism, preserving our unique geological and cultural heritage, and strengthening the UAE's position as a global hub for responsible tourism. By bringing together top experts from our regional partners and around the world, we are shaping the future of this industry in a way that benefits local communities while also protecting the environment." The conference will feature sessions on adventure tourism, including industry talks, keynote speeches, and five panel discussions. These discussions will cover the following topics: Investment & Growth: Opportunities & Challenges in the Adventure Industry; Safety & Standards: Global Best Practices in Exploration & Recreation; Sustainability & Community: Preserving Nature & Empowering Local Economies; Innovation & Youth: Startups, Universities, Influencers and UN Tourism Affiliate Members Leading the Way in Sports & Adventure Tourism. A representative from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, along with decision makers and industry leaders in the tourism sector, will also attend and speak at the conference. Additionally, the conference will officially unveil the first standardised adventure tourism framework tailored for the region and launch the Arabic translation of the UIAA book to promote safety and best practices in adventure sports.
Gulf Today
21-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Fujairah to host conference on adventure tourism
The Fujairah Adventures Centre is all set to host the first-of-its-kind conference in the country, the Fujairah International Conference of Adventures Tourism from April 30 to May 2, 2025. The three-day conference organised with the participation of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, will be held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, leveraging the region's natural assets, existing infrastructure, and potential for adventure tourism. The conference aims to align with economic diversification goals and strategies for growth within the tourism industry, positioning Fujairah as a leading tourism hub in the Middle East and globally. The sessions are designed to enhance Fujairah's international visibility, attract strategic investments and establish a regional framework for sustainable adventure tourism. Additionally, the conference is expected to drive new partnerships, stimulate investment, and set benchmarks for excellence in adventure tourism. Fujairah Adventure Park. File/WAM Amr Zein Eddine, Director of Fujairah Adventures Centre, and Head of the Higher Organising Committee of Fujairah International Conference of Adventures Tourism, said, 'Hosting this international conference marks a strategic milestone in the development of the adventure tourism sector in the region, and we are grateful for the unwavering support and guidance from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah. The choice of Fujairah as the host for this conference reflects our commitment to promoting sustainable tourism, preserving our unique geological and cultural heritage, and strengthening the UAE's position as a global hub for responsible tourism. 'By bringing together top experts from our regional partners and around the world, we are shaping the future of this industry in a way that benefits local communities while also protecting the environment.' Fujairah is a leading tourism hub in the Middle East and globally. The event will feature sessions on adventure tourism, including industry talks, keynote speeches, and five panel discussions. These discussions will cover the following topics: Investment & Growth: Opportunities & Challenges in the Adventure Industry; Safety & Standards: Global Best Practices in Exploration & Recreation; Sustainability & Community: Preserving Nature & Empowering Local Economies; Innovation & Youth: Startups, Universities, Influencers and UN Tourism Affiliate Members Leading the Way in Sports & Adventure Tourism. A representative from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation, along with decision makers and industry leaders in the tourism sector, will also attend and speak at the conference.
Gulf News
17-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf News
Fujairah to host UAE's first international adventure tourism conference
Fujairah: The Fujairah Adventures Center has announced to host the inaugural Fujairah International Conference of Adventure Tourism in May this year. Being held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, the conference will take place April 30 to May 2, 2025. Organised in collaboration with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), this first-of-its-kind event in the UAE is designed to spotlight Fujairah's untapped potential as a prime adventure tourism destination, leveraging its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and strategic location. 'Hosting this international conference marks a strategic milestone in the development of the adventure tourism sector in our region,' said Amr Zein Eddine, Director of Fujairah Adventures Center and Head of the Higher Organising Committee. The three-day conference will feature keynote addresses, expert panels, and interactive sessions focused on key themes including: Investment & Growth: Opportunities and challenges in the global adventure tourism industry. Safety & Standards: International best practices for exploration and recreational safety. Sustainability & Community: Strategies for preserving natural resources and empowering local economies. Innovation & Youth: The role of start-ups, universities, influencers, and UNWTO Affiliate Members in shaping the future of adventure tourism. Adventure tourism A highlight of the event will be the launch of the region's first standardised adventure tourism framework, tailored specifically to the Middle East. Additionally, the conference will unveil the Arabic translation of the UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation) safety guidebook, aimed at promoting high standards and best practices in adventure sports. Scenic outdoors The opening day will feature Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signings and a formal book launch. On the following days, delegates and attendees will experience Fujairah's scenic outdoors through a curated program of cultural and eco-tourism activities. These include visits to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Fujairah Fort, traditional encounters at Al Taiba Village, guided hikes in Wadi Wurrayah Nature Reserve, and deep-sea fishing paired with local culinary experiences.
Trade Arabia
23-03-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
UAE nominates Al Nowais to run for UN Tourism Sec-Gen
Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Corporate Vice President – Owners' Relationship Management at Rotana Hotel Management, has been nominated by the UAE to run for the position of Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism) for the term 2026-2029. The candidacy reflects the UAE's commitment to strengthening efforts to support the growth and sustainability of global tourism. It underlines the country's outstanding role in various tourism fields; its remarkable growth in the sector and resilience in the face of challenges; and its continued support for the initiatives and projects launched by UN Tourism, reported WAM. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, said: 'The UAE continues to consolidate its outstanding position in the global tourism landscape, strengthening regional and global cooperation for sustainable and inclusive tourism development. It enjoys close and strategic relationships with UN Tourism, driving joint efforts and strategies that support innovative and pioneering tourism initiatives and projects, especially as the UAE's was re-elected to the UN Tourism Executive Council for the term 2025-2029.' He 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 tourism field and its important and effective role in promoting the growth and sustainability of the global tourism sector. Moreover, it highlights the extraordinary experience gained by the country in this field over the past years.' Shaikha Al Nowais is the first Emirati woman to run for this position. She currently holds many important managerial and academic positions that influence the tourism and hospitality industry. She has played an active and vital role in leading tourism initiatives within the UAE and internationally . If elected, Shaikha Al Nowais will become the first woman from the region to assume the leading position at UN Tourism. It will be the latest in a series of achievements accomplished by the country globally, reflecting Emirati women's leadership and strong presence in international forums. With a distinguished career spanning over 15 years, Shaikha Al Nowais's nomination reflects the widespread recognition she holds within the global tourism and hospitality industry. She has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sector, driving innovation, sustainability, and workforce development. As the first female board member of the Dubai Hotel Group under the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, she has been instrumental in advancing industry policies and fostering public-private collaboration. In addition, her role as a member of the Global Hospitality Asset Managers Association (HAMA) MEA Chapter underscores her expertise in hospitality investment strategies and asset management. Committed to talent development and industry growth, Shaikha Al Nowais actively supports advanced training initiatives. She chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber's Tourism Working Group and serves on the Board of Trustees of the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches, as well as the Hospitality Advisory Committee, ensuring that the next generation of hospitality leaders is equipped with the skills to drive sustainable and competitive growth in the global tourism landscape. Over the past years, Shaikha Al Nowais has also worked closely with all stakeholders to find appropriate solutions to challenges, provide travellers with distinctive tourism experiences, and engage with investors to enhance the attractiveness of the UAE's hospitality sector to domestic and foreign investments. Speaking on her candidacy, she said: 'My nomination by the UAE to run for this position is reflective of the importance our country places on empowering Emirati women in leadership positions. It emphasises the country's efforts in promoting joint action to enhance the growth and sustainability of the sector regionally and internationally.' She further expressed her deep gratitude for this remarkable recognition. 'Tourism is a key driver promoting sustainable economic growth, contributing to job creation, supporting local businesses to grow and increase their revenues, and promoting intercultural connectivity. For instance, Rotana manages 114 hotels in 49 cities across 23 countries around the world. We strive to implement innovative visions and policies, given the sector's role as a driver of economic prosperity while prioritising sustainability and competitiveness,' Shaikha Al Nowais added. She explained: 'The tourism industry is at a crossroads, with the world facing unprecedented global challenges, notably climate change, the accelerating impact of technology and changing geopolitical dynamics. These challenges call for resilient, forward-looking leadership and diverse and collaborative solutions that can redefine the future of sustainable and responsible tourism.' 'My goal is to build on successful tourism models and expand them across regions such as Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Asia and Latin America to promote sustainable and inclusive growth and strengthen the global tourism ecosystem,' she said. Al Nowais's vision to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of the global tourism sector is built on the following six key pillars: • Sustainable and responsible tourism growth: Reinforcing tourism's role as a transformative economic force by leveraging it to support economic development, create job opportunities across various tourism fields, expand business growth of tourism companies, connect cultures, and preserve national reserves and cultural heritage. • Digital transformation and smart tourism: Integrating advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain, into emerging tourism markets, while also developing smart infrastructure to offer exceptional and unique travel experiences, globally. The efforts aim to enhance tourism destinations based on global best practices. • Economic inclusion and continuity empowerment: Creating more job opportunities and resources to enable the active participation of women, youth and diverse social groups in the tourism sector. This strategy ensures comprehensive and balanced tourism growth. • Education and capacity building: Developing the skills and expertise of professionals in the tourism sector is essential for ensuring the sector's continued growth and prosperity, particularly in light of the ongoing advancements. Strengthening collaboration with key entities to establish a comprehensive ecosystem for training programs plays a crucial role in building a brighter future for tourism. • Resilience and crisis management: Strengthening the tourism sector's ability to adapt to future global challenges, developing sustainable tourism products and fostering a culture of preserving environmental and natural resources. • Collaboration as driver of success: Tourism thrives by forging partnerships between governments, businesses and local communities. By fostering collocation, a more resilient and sustainable tourism sector can be developed both regionally and globally. Shaikha Al Nowais recognises the importance of fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation while empowering women's leadership in the tourism sector. She also remains committed to empowering young Emiratis by actively guiding these professionals and supporting initiatives that provide training and job opportunities in the hospitality sector. As women now represent approximately 20 per cent of the total workforce at Rotana, the Group prioritises inclusivity through education, training, and workplace policies that enable all employees to thrive. Regarding young women embarking on their professional journeys, Shaikha Al Nowais highlights the significance of continuous learning, curiosity, and confidence in raising questions. As an Emirati woman in a leadership role, she is proud of her contributions to shaping the future of the industry. Shaikha Al Nowais graduated from Zayed University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration- Major in Finance, in 2006. Over the past five years, she has received numerous awards and brand medals, including Best Hotel Brand in the Middle East at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards for 2021, 2022 and 2024; Best Business Hotel Chain in the Middle East at the Business Traveller UK Awards in 2022, 2023 and 2024; and Forbes Middle East: Top 100 Sustainable Companies in the Middle East – Sustainability Leaders 2023.
