UAE’s Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais Appointed as First Female Head of UN Tourism

In a historic step for gender equality and global tourism, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been appointed as the first-ever woman to head UN Tourism. Her appointment was confirmed during the 123rd UN Tourism Executive Council session in Segovia, Spain, and will be officially ratified by the UN General Assembly. She will begin her four-year term in January 2026, marking a groundbreaking moment in the organisation’s 50-year history.

UAE’s Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais Appointed as First Female Head of UN Tourism

Breaking a 50-Year Barrier

Founded in 1975, UN Tourism (formerly UNWTO) has never been led by a woman—until now. Shaikha Al Nowais’s appointment signifies a powerful breakthrough in international leadership and represents a major advancement in women’s participation in global governance.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised her appointment as a reflection of the UAE’s commitment to women’s empowerment and international cooperation. Shaikha Al Nowais dedicated her success to Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, recognizing her as a guiding inspiration for Emirati women.

A Trailblazing Emirati Leader

With over 16 years of professional experience, Shaikha Al Nowais brings deep expertise in tourism, corporate strategy, and leadership. She has held key positions such as:

• Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels
• Chair of the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group
• Board Member of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council

Her experience in corporate governance and sustainable tourism development positions her to guide UN Tourism through global challenges and strengthen international collaboration.

Vision for the Future of Global Tourism

Shaikha Al Nowais has outlined a Five-Pillar Vision for transforming global tourism:

1. Responsible Tourism – Promote sustainable and eco-friendly travel.
2. Digital Innovation – Encourage AI and technology adoption in tourism.
3. Sustainable Financing – Attract global investments for tourism growth.
4. Youth and Women Empowerment – Expand inclusion and leadership opportunities.
5. Transparent Governance – Ensure accountability and fair global practices.

Her leadership aims to build inclusive, innovative, and sustainable tourism systems, setting a new benchmark for the industry worldwide.

Exam-Oriented Notes

• Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais from the UAE became the first woman to head UN Tourism.
• Her four-year term begins in January 2026.
• Appointment confirmed at the 123rd UN Tourism Executive Council Session in Spain.
• She has served as Corporate VP at Rotana Hotels and Chair of Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Group.
• Her vision focuses on responsible tourism, digital innovation, sustainable financing, women empowerment, and transparency.

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Question & Answer

Q1. Who has become the first-ever woman to lead UN Tourism?
(a) Fatima bint Mubarak
(b) Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais
(c) Reem Al Hashimy
(d) Amina J. Mohammed
Answer: Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais

Q2. From which country does Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais belong?
(a) Qatar
(b) Saudi Arabia
(c) United Arab Emirates
(d) Oman
Answer: United Arab Emirates

Q3. When will Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais assume her position as head of UN Tourism?
(a) January 2025
(b) January 2026
(c) December 2025
(d) March 2026
Answer: January 2026

Q4. Where was her appointment confirmed?
(a) Abu Dhabi, UAE
(b) Madrid, Spain
(c) Segovia, Spain
(d) Geneva, Switzerland
Answer: Segovia, Spain

Q5. What is one of the key pillars of her vision for global tourism?
(a) Military Cooperation
(b) Responsible Tourism
(c) Political Partnership
(d) Religious Tourism
Answer: Responsible Tourism

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