Page 162 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 (Part 1)_Neat

6/10/25, 1:58 PM UAE ministers hail election of Shaikha Al Nowais as UN Tourism Secretary-General as a historic milestone in global tourism leaders…
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
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