Shaikha Al Nowais Elected UN Tourism Secretary-General in Historic First for UAE

In a landmark achievement for the UAE, Her Excellency Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais has been elected as the Secretary-General of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term, becoming the first Emirati and Arab woman to hold the prestigious position. The announcement has been met with widespread praise from UAE ministers, who hailed the development as a milestone for the nation's global leadership in tourism and a powerful symbol of Emirati women's growing international influence.

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of the UAE Tourism Council, emphasized that this election reflects the UAE’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable and inclusive global tourism. “Thanks to our wise leadership, the UAE today celebrates a historic milestone. The election of H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais highlights our nation’s strategic vision and its growing partnerships within the global tourism landscape,” he said.

He also noted that Al Nowais’s appointment is a testament to the strength of Emirati youth and the international community’s trust in the UAE’s human capital. “Her selection underscores the credibility, capabilities, and global stature of Emirati professionals—especially women—on the international stage.”

H.E. Bin Touq further highlighted Al Nowais’s comprehensive vision for global tourism and praised her ability to elevate the sector through sustainable development strategies. He pointed to the UAE’s tourism growth in 2024, fueled by key initiatives such as the “World’s Coolest Winter” campaign, the National Tourism Charter, and the adoption of the International Code for the Protection of Tourists in cooperation with UN Tourism.

H.E. Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, described the election as a proud achievement for both the UAE and Emirati women. “Shaikha’s appointment shows the world’s confidence in her leadership and underscores the UAE’s central role in sustainable global development,” she said, adding that her experience in the private sector will bring a results-oriented and innovative approach to the organization.

H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, reiterated the UAE's ongoing commitment to empowering women across all sectors. “The appointment of a young Emirati to such a globally influential position reflects the UAE’s progressive vision and its strong presence on the international stage,” he said.

Underscoring the importance of the milestone, H.E. Omar Obaid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the election reflects the UAE's strong cooperation with global institutions and continued support for gender inclusion and leadership. He affirmed that this achievement will further solidify the UAE’s global reputation as a trusted partner in sustainable development.