The UAE has nominated Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotel Management Corporation PJSC, for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism) for the 2026–2029 term. If elected, she will be the first Emirati and the first woman from the region to hold this prestigious global role.
Her candidacy underscores the UAE’s commitment to sustainable tourism growth, inclusivity, and global collaboration in the tourism sector. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality leadership, Al Nowais has been instrumental in advancing innovation, workforce development, and public-private partnerships across the industry.
A strong advocate for women’s leadership and youth empowerment, she currently chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group and serves on the board of multiple tourism and hospitality institutions. Her vision for the future of global tourism is built on six key pillars, including sustainability, digital transformation, education, economic inclusion, resilience, and international collaboration.
Shaikha Al Nowais described her nomination as a reflection of the UAE’s values in empowering women leaders and promoting global cooperation to redefine the tourism landscape in a rapidly changing world. – WAM
