Shaikha Al Nowais of the UAE has been officially confirmed as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations Specialized Agency for Tourism (UN Tourism).

This appointment is historic, as she will be the first woman to lead the organization in its 50-year history, with her term beginning in early 2026. Her confirmation was ratified by the UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh.

Al Nowais brings extensive private sector experience, including her role as Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels. In her address, she outlined her five core priorities to make the sector more "inclusive, resilient, and human": responsible tourism, capacity building, technology for good, innovative financing, and smart governance.

The historic election took place during the 26th General Assembly, which was hosted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 7–11, 2025 G.C.

Ethiopia’s delegation, led by Dr. Endegena Abebe, State Minister of Tourism, and including Ambassador Dr. Muktar Kedir, participated in the proceedings.

Ministers and senior officials from over 160 member nations attended the meeting, which was held under the theme "AI-Powered Tourism: Redefining the Future."