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8/18/25, 2:29 PM Meet Shaikha Al Nowais: The First Female Head Of UN Tourism
Meet Shaikha Al Nowais: The First Female Head Of UN Tourism
By Samra Ahmed Forbes Middle East Staff Aug 17, 2025, 12:00 PM
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Al Nowais has called for the use of emerging technologies, such as AI and blockchain. Image via ShaikhaNasser.com.
In May 2025, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais was nominated by the U.A.E.’s Ministry of Economy and
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to become the first woman to lead UN Tourism as part of broader
efforts to elevate the role of women in international institutions. Al Nowais was elected by the UN
Tourism Executive Council at the 123rd session of the body, with her appointment expected to be
confirmed by the general assembly ahead of the start of her term in January 2026.
Hospitality veteran
Al Nowais has over 16 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. She currently
serves as the corporate vice president of owner relationship management at Rotana Hotels, where
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