In a historic move, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais from the United Arab Emirates has been confirmed by acclamation as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) — becoming the first woman ever to lead the global tourism body.Her appointment was announced at the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where delegates unanimously endorsed her leadership without a formal vote. Shaikha Al Nowais will officially assume office on January 1, 2026, succeeding Zurab Pololikashvili of Georgia, who has served two terms since 2018.Diplomats hailed the decision as a “milestone for gender representation” in international tourism governance. The transition comes as the global tourism industry continues to navigate recovery, climate adaptation, and digital transformation challenges.UN Tourism, headquartered in Madrid, continues to champion responsible, sustainable, and inclusive tourism across the world.
