UAE's Shaikha Naseer Al Nowais becomes first woman to head UN Tourism

In a historic achievement that cements the UAE's position as a global leader in tourism, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais won unanimous approval from over 160 member states for her appointment as Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism) from 2026 to 2029.

She was selected with the unanimous approval of all participating member states — numbering more than 160 countries — during the 26th session of the UNWTO General Assembly, which is being hosted in Riyadh during Nov.7-11, 2025.

This victory follows her election by the organisation's Executive Council last May to take up the position.

In accordance with the organisation's protocol, Shaikha Al Nowais has successfully completed all the steps of nomination, election and victory, becoming the world's first woman and the first Emirati to lead the organisation since its establishment 50 years ago. This achievement reflects the international confidence in Emirati capabilities and their potential to shape the future of global tourism. It is also a significant milestone in the UAE's ongoing commitment to supporting and empowering women, enhancing their presence in international leadership roles.

Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais won unanimous approval from over 160 member states for her appointment as Secretary-General of the UN Tourism from 2026 to 2029.

The announcement was made during a UAE delegation's participation in this session's proceedings, led by Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE's Minister of Economy and Tourism.

Abdullah Bin Touq said, "Today marks a historic moment for the UAE, the Arab region, and the world as a whole, as we witness the selection of the first woman to lead the global tourism system.”

He added, "The unanimous international consensus on the selection of Shaikha Al Nowais, a UAE national, reflects the country's prestigious standing in the tourism sector and in economic diplomacy. It also confirms the UAE's leading and growing role in supporting sustainable tourism development, as well as strengthening the bonds of communication and cultural rapprochement between peoples around the world."

Bin Touq also said, "This achievement confirms the wise approach of the President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. They have supported excellence and innovation, empowering national talents to contribute to international organisations and consolidating the UAE's presence as a reliable partner in leading global economic development initiatives."