Latest news with #ShaikhaAlNowais
Zawya
11-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Shaikha Al Nowais highlights strategic vision for the future of tourism at Investopia Global
Abu Dhabi: H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General-elect of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term, took part in a panel session titled 'Beyond Borders: The Role of Tourism in Economic Growth and Human Connection,' held during Investopia Global – Mediterranean in Cyprus. The session also featured the participation of H.E. Laura Lahoud, Minister of Tourism of Lebanon; H.E. Kostas Koumis, Deputy Minister of Tourism of Cyprus; H.E. Olga Kefalogianni, Minister of Tourism of Greece; and H.E. Dr. Constantinos Kombos, the Cypriot Foreign Minister. The panel discussed a range of new tourism strategies and policies aimed at promoting global economic growth and diversification. It also explored their role in navigating geopolitical and economic shifts happening at regional and global levels. The efforts to strengthen partnerships between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Mediterranean nations were highlighted, emphasizing the importance of tourism in connecting societies to their cultural and archaeological heritage and preserving historical landmarks and sites. H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais said: 'The tourism sector not only contributes to global economic growth and diversification but also serves as a vital bridge connecting diverse communities and cultures. It fosters mutual understanding among peoples and plays a key role in generating employment across all segments of society. This highlights the importance of strengthening collaboration and aligning efforts to shape innovative visions and initiatives that will elevate this vital sector and drive it toward greater progress and prosperity, advancing our aspirations for comprehensive, sustainable economic and social development.' H.E. added: 'The GCC and Mediterranean countries possess exceptional tourism assets that blend historical heritage, cultural richness, and civilizational diversity. This unique combination gives these regions a distinctive character, positioning them among the world's most attractive and sought-after destinations. Investopia Global – Mediterranean serves as a key platform to showcase this potential, engage business communities, and explore promising investment opportunities across various segments of the tourism sector.' Her Excellency underlined the importance of strengthening regional and international collaboration in the next phase to adopt innovative tourism models that promote the preservation of ecosystems and contribute to building a better future for sustainable and responsible tourism. During her participation in the panel, H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais highlighted her new vision for the future of tourism, which aims to foster sustainable economic growth while preserving cultural identity and natural resources to ensure continuity for current and future generations. H.E. noted that this vision is based on five main pillars: enhancing responsible tourism that prioritizes the preservation of nature, culture, people, and the environment; building capacities and empowering youth, women, and communities; harnessing technology for good to improve quality of life while maintaining privacy; adopting innovative financing solutions and developing tourism models that support sustainable growth; and establishing smart governance through transparent, accountable, and clear leadership. H.E. also emphasized that digital transformation is a key driver in advancing the growth of the tourism sector and unlocking its full potential. The integration of cutting-edge digital tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital payment systems, and advanced infrastructure plays a vital role in developing tourism destinations and landmarks in line with global best practices and standards. For further information, please contact: Orient Planet Group (OPG) Email: media@ Website:
CairoScene
02-06-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated as First Woman to Lead UN Tourism
The Emirati executive could become the first woman Secretary-General in the UN agency's 50-year history. Shaikha Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates has been officially nominated to serve as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). If elected, she would be the first woman to lead the agency since its founding in 1975. The nomination was confirmed during the 123rd session of the UN Tourism Executive Council, held in Segovia, Spain. Al Nowais received 24 votes in the final round, surpassing candidates from Greece, Mexico, and Ghana. Her appointment is hoped to be ratified at the UN Tourism General Assembly later this year, which will be hosted in Saudi Arabia. Al Nowais brings over 16 years of experience in the global tourism and hospitality sector, most notably serving as Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels. She is also a board member of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council, chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber's Tourism Working Group, and sits on the advisory board of Les Roches Hospitality Academy. Her proposed leadership vision for UN Tourism centres on promoting responsible tourism, increasing opportunities for women and youth, leveraging digital transformation, and encouraging innovative financing and inclusive governance across the sector. If confirmed, Al Nowais will begin her four-year term in January 2026, succeeding current Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.
Zawya
02-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
UAE ministers hail election of Shaikha Al Nowais as UN Tourism Secretary-General as a historic milestone in global tourism leadership
Abu Dhabi - Several UAE ministers hailed the election of Emirati H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism as a historic and commendable achievement for the country on both the regional and global stage. This accomplishment reflects the UAE's leading position in tourism and the success of its strategic vision to support international efforts in developing a sustainable and responsible tourism sector that drives economic and social development for communities around the world. H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the UAE Tourism Council, said: "Thanks to the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE today celebrates a new historic milestone in its tourism sector: the election of the UAE's candidate, H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais, as Secretary-General of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term. This achievement reflects the UAE's pioneering and influential role in leading global efforts toward sustainable tourism development, in close cooperation with international decision-makers and organizations across the global tourism landscape. It also reaffirms the success of the UAE's strategic vision in strengthening openness to the world and building robust international partnerships that support its aspirations as a premier tourism destination, both regionally and globally." H.E. Bin Touq added: 'We are proud to have earned the trust of the international community in our national capabilities, as reflected in the election of Shaikha Al Nowais - the first Emirati and Arab young woman - to the position of UN Tourism Secretary-General. This milestone highlights the competence of our young national talent and their ability to gain international confidence in leading high-level roles within specialized sectors such as tourism. It also reaffirms the prominent status that Arab women have achieved on both regional and global stages.' H.E. also commended her extensive experience and capabilities in representing the UAE at the highest international levels, as well as her comprehensive vision for strengthening global cooperation to achieve sustainable and responsible tourism development. Her leadership is expected to elevate the tourism sector to new heights of progress and prosperity while contributing meaningfully to the implementation of UN Tourism projects and initiatives. H.E. pointed out that the UAE's tourism sector achieved exceptional growth in 2024, driven by the launch of several key national initiatives designed to promote tourism within the country and attract international visitors. Notable developments included the fifth season of the 'World's Coolest Winter' campaign, the inauguration of the National Tourism Charter, and the adoption of the International Code for the Protection of Tourists—implemented in collaboration with UN Tourism as a guiding framework. These initiatives collectively support the objectives of the National Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to position the UAE as the world's leading tourism brand by the next decade. Her Excellency Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, emphasized that the election of Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism represents a significant milestone for the UAE and a proud achievement for Emirati women. Her Excellency added: 'Her appointment as the first woman to assume this position demonstrates the international community's confidence in her capabilities and highlights the UAE's leading role in advancing sustainable development globally." Her Excellency noted that Shaikha's distinguished career in the private sector will bring a fresh perspective to UN Tourism, with a focus on delivering tangible results and enhancing the organization's operational efficiency for the benefit of the global tourism industry. His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, said: 'Empowering and supporting Emirati women is a cornerstone of the UAE's wise leadership and its vision for a more prosperous and advanced future. The UAE continues to strengthen women's participation and contributions across all sectors, while ensuring their impactful presence on regional and international platforms. In this context, the selection of young Emirati Shaikha Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism reflects this forward-looking vision. It marks a significant step in reinforcing the UAE's global leadership in promoting a safe, sustainable, and inclusive tourism sector that drives long-term growth and development.' His Excellency added: 'The election of H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais to this prestigious international position reflects not only her competence and professional excellence but also the international community's confidence in the UAE and its standing as a trusted partner in advancing sustainable development globally. It further reaffirms the esteemed position our nation has earned both regionally and internationally.' Underscoring the significance of the historic milestone, H.E. Omar Obaid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that the election of the first Emirati woman by the UN World Tourism Organization demonstrates the continuous support and empowerment provided to Emirati women by the UAE's wise leadership. His Excellency further affirmed that the UAE's continued collaboration with the Organization and its member states has yielded tangible results. The Undersecretary expressed his confidence that Shaikha Al Nowais, with her robust expertise in tourism and hospitality, would redefine the future path of the industry's development. -ends- For further information, please contact: Orient Planet Group (OPG) Tel: +971 4 4562888 Email: media@ Website:
Hospitality Net
02-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated as First Woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism as Executive Council Builds on Strong Legacy
The UN Tourism Executive Council has met again for a milestone session to build on the legacy of the last eight years. Meeting for its 123rd session, the Council assessed progress made around the priorities of innovation, investments and education and looked ahead with the nomination of Shaikha Al Nowais as new Secretary-General from 2026. Upon confirmation by the UN Tourism General Assembly, Ms. Shaikha Al Nowais will become the woman to hold the position. According to the May 2025 World Tourism Barometer from UN Tourism, over 300 million tourists travelled internationally in the first three months of 2025, about 14 million more than in the same months of 2024. On the back of this positive data, Member States were given an overview of the progress made in key areas designed to build a more innovation, resilient and sustainable sector. Over the last eight years, UN Tourism has embraced a transformative vision. We have put tourism at the forefront of the global agenda to enhance its competitiveness and economic value. And we have never lost sight of our key priorities: education, investments, sustainable and rural development, women empowerment, new technologies, and international expansion. Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili Shaikha Al Nowais nominated to make history as first female UN Tourism head Following protocol, the Council elected Shaikha Al Nowais as the next Secretary-General, to begin in January 2026. Her nomination will be put to the UN Tourism General Assembly for their approval. The nomination represents a landmark first for the sector, as the first woman leader of UN Tourism in its 50-year history. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais is an Emirati business leader with over 16 years of experience in global hospitality. As Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, she has overseen owner relations across the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey. A graduate of Zayed University in Finance, she also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber's Tourism Working Group and serves on the boards of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy. Celebrating shared progress In Segovia, Secretary-General Pololikashvili presented a comprehensive report reviewing the outcomes of his eight-year mandate. The report was built around the main outcomes of the approved Programme of Work, namely: Tourism Insights, including Key data trends shaping the industry's future. Tourism Knowhow, including the development of tourism products. Investments and Innovation, supporting the core drivers of growth Sustainability, with a focus on initiatives aligning with the SDGs. Education and Human Capital development to build a strong, skilled workforce. UN Tourism on the ground and its assistance to Member States. Budget allocation and Human Resources. Highlights included strengthened tourism data systems, expanded rural tourism initiatives (including the Best Tourism Villages and STAR tool), new programming in gastronomy, sports, and urban tourism, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence and social innovation into the Organization's broader agenda. Member States were also updated on the significant growth in the UN Tourism Online Academy, new International Academies in Association with UN Tourism, and record foreign direct investment figures. Strengthening global presence and new Innovation Office for Africa The Council also welcomed updates on the development of Thematic and Regional offices. On the eve of the Executive Council Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili and Tourism Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco Fatim-Zahra Ammor and UN Tourism formalized an agreement to create he first UN Tourism Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa in Rabat. The office will advance UN Tourism's 2030 Agenda for Africa, and aims to position tourism as a key driver of development through innovation across the region. About UN Tourism UN Tourism is the United Nations agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. An intergovernmental organization, UN Tourism has 160 Member States, 6 Associate Members, 2 Observers and over 500 Affiliate Members. The General Assembly is the supreme organ of the Organization. The Executive Council takes all measures, in consultation with the Secretary-General, for the implementation of the decisions and recommendations of the General Assembly and reports to the Assembly. UN Tourism headquarters are based in Madrid, Spain. The election for Secretary General will be in May 2025. UN Tourism Communications Department +34 91 567 8100 UN Tourism
Leaders
01-06-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Albudaiwi Congratulates Shaikha Al Nowais on Historic UNWTO Appointment
Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Shaikha Al Nowais on her election as Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for the 2026–2029 term. Albudaiwi expressed deep pride in Al Nowais becoming the first Emirati and Gulf woman to assume this prestigious role in the organization's five-decade history. He emphasized that this milestone highlights both the esteemed international standing of the United Arab Emirates and the growing global influence of women leaders from the Gulf region. He noted that her election reflects the world's trust in the capabilities and leadership of Gulf women. Finally, he concluded by wishing Shaikha Al Nowais continued success in her new role and extended his best wishes for the UAE's ongoing security, prosperity, and progress under its wise leadership. Related Topics : UNWTO Recognizes Abo Noghta Castles, Tabab among World's Best Tourism Villages Saudi Arabia Gives Green Light to Licensed Companies to Export Flour Saudi Paper Manufacturing Company Signs €24.9M Deal with ABC Bank Crown Prince Announces 'Al-Alat Company Launch Saudi Pavilion Secures New York Architectural Design Awards at Expo Osaka 2025 Short link : Post Views: 2 Related Stories
