Shaikha Al Nowais has been elected as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism – the global travel and tourism arm of the United Nations; with her term set to begin in January 2026.
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.
The World Travel & Tourism Council congratulated Ms Al Nowais on her election.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: “On behalf of the World Travel & Tourism Council, our Members and the global travel community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais on her historic nomination as the first woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism. Her appointment marks a significant milestone, reflecting the evolving leadership within our sector.”
“Shaikha Al Nowais’s extensive experience in hospitality and her commitment to sustainability, digital equity, and inclusive governance align seamlessly with our shared vision for a resilient and forward-thinking tourism sector. We look forward to collaborating closely with her to drive this vision.”
