Sheikha Nasser Al Nuaimi from the United Arab Emirates has been elected as the first woman and the first Middle Eastern figure to serve as Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).
The election took place on May 30, 2025, at the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso in Segovia, Spain. Al Nuaimi won 24 out of 35 votes, surpassing her Greek rival in the second round. With over 15 years of experience in the tourism industry, she currently serves as Vice President of Owner Relations at Rotana Hotel Group.
Her vision for the organization focuses on sustainable tourism, green regeneration, digital justice, and inclusive governance. Her four-year term will begin in January 2026.
UAE leaders, including Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, congratulated her on this historic achievement, calling it a testament to the strength and global potential of the country’s human capital.
