The UN Tourism Executive Council has made a significant move by nominating Shaikha Al Nowais as its first female Secretary-General. This nomination comes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the legacy of the organisation and enhance international tourism.
Key Points
- Shaikha Al Nowais will assume the role in January 2026, pending approval by the UN Tourism General Assembly.
- Her nomination marks a historic moment in UN Tourism’s 50-year history.
- Al Nowais brings over 16 years of experience in global hospitality, particularly with Rotana Hotels.
- During the Executive Council’s 123rd session, the success of initiatives in innovation, investments, and education were discussed.
- UN Tourism has seen a surge in international travel, with over 300 million tourists in just the first quarter of 2025.
- The new UN Tourism Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa was also established to advance tourism development.
Content Summary
This article details the nomination of Shaikha Al Nowais as the first female Secretary-General of UN Tourism. During a recent Executive Council meeting, major progress in the organisation’s key priorities was noted, including innovations that aim to enhance tourism’s economic value globally. The meeting highlighted substantial growth in international travel, setting the stage for a new administration under Al Nowais, who has extensive leadership experience in the hospitality sector.
Moreover, the article outlines the Council’s accomplishments in areas such as sustainable tourism development, education, and the impact of new technologies on the industry. The creation of a new thematic office focused on African innovation also signals a strategic expansion of UN Tourism’s global footprint.
Context and Relevance
This article is super relevant amid discussions surrounding the empowerment of women in leadership roles across global organisations. Al Nowais’s nomination is not just a breakthrough for gender representation but also emphasises the growing importance of tourism as a vital sector for economic recovery and innovation in the post-pandemic world.
Why should I read this?
If you’re interested in tourism, women’s leadership, or global economic trends, this article is a must-read! It showcases a significant milestone in UN history and offers insights into the future of tourism under new leadership. Plus, it keeps you in the loop about important developments that could shape the travel industry for years to come!