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3/28/25, 1:21 PM Emirati to run for secretary general of UN Tourism | The National
Emirati to run for secretary general of UN Tourism

Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais plans to help drive growth for the tourism sector

The National
March 21, 2025

Emirati Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais is to run for a leading position with the United Nations

World Tourism Organisation.

Ms Al Nowais, who is currently corporate vice president of owners’ relationship

management at Rotana Hotel Management Corporation, is vying for the position of

secretary general of UN Tourism. If successful, she will serve from 2026-2029.

“My nomination by the UAE to run for this position is reflective of the importance our

country places on empowering Emirati women in leadership positions,” she said, according

to state news agency Wam. “It emphasises the country’s efforts in promoting joint action to

enhance the growth and sustainability of the sector regionally and internationally.

“Tourism is a key driver promoting sustainable economic growth, contributing to job

creation, supporting local businesses to grow and increase their revenues, and promoting

intercultural connectivity. For instance, Rotana manages 114 hotels in 49 cities across 23

countries around the world. We strive to implement innovative visions and policies, given
the sector’s role as a driver of economic prosperity while prioritising sustainability and

competitiveness.”

Global challenges such as climate change, the accelerating impact of technology and

changing geopolitical dynamics have left the tourism sector at a crossroads, she said.

“These challenges call for resilient, forward-looking leadership and diverse and

collaborative solutions that can redefine the future of sustainable and responsible tourism.

“My goal is to build on successful tourism models and expand them across regions such as

Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Asia and Latin America to promote sustainable and

inclusive growth and strengthen the global tourism ecosystem.”

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