Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais Nominated for UN Tourism Secretary-General Role
Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, an Emirati business leader, has been nominated to assume the role of Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization, effective January 2026. The nomination, made in line with official Council procedures, is now pending approval by the UN Tourism General Assembly.
If confirmed, Al Nowais would be the first woman to lead the organization in its 50-year history.
Al Nowais has more than 16 years of experience in the hospitality sector. As Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, she oversees owner relations across regions, including the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey. Her work has focused on strategic development and cross-regional collaboration.
She holds a degree in Finance from Zayed University and has been involved in initiatives that support professional development and sector engagement. Al Nowais currently 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.
Her nomination arrives at a time when global tourism is continuing to adapt to shifting travel patterns and evolving industry priorities. The upcoming vote by the General Assembly will determine the next phase of leadership for the organization.
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