Shaikha Al Nowais to Become First Woman to Lead UN Tourism
Her background includes senior roles at Rotana and Abu Dhabi bodies.
Shaikha Al Nowais has been confirmed as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism, becoming the first woman to lead the United Nations specialized agency for tourism in its 50-year history. With her term set to begin at the start of 2026, Al Nowais brings a combination of private-sector expertise and policy experience to the role. She currently serves as Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels, chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group, and sits on the boards of the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy. Her appointment followed nomination by the organisation’s Executive Council in May and confirmation by the 160 Member States at the 26th General Assembly.
