{"id":147687,"date":"2025-05-31T20:35:10","date_gmt":"2025-05-31T20:35:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/147687\/"},"modified":"2025-05-31T20:35:10","modified_gmt":"2025-05-31T20:35:10","slug":"united-arab-emirates-spain-greece-mexico-ghana-united-states-canada-united-kingdom-nations-align-for-tourism-renewal-as-un-elects-new-secretary-general-amid-calls-for-global-cooperation-and-eq","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/147687\/","title":{"rendered":"United Arab Emirates, Spain, Greece, Mexico, Ghana, United States, Canada, United Kingdom: Nations Align for Tourism Renewal as UN Elects New Secretary-General Amid Calls for Global Cooperation and Equity"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\" title=\"Home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Home<\/a> \u00bb <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/category\/tourism-news\/\" title=\"TOURISM NEWS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TOURISM NEWS<\/a> \u00bb United Arab Emirates, Spain, Greece, Mexico, Ghana, United States, Canada, United Kingdom: Nations Align for Tourism Renewal as UN Elects New Secretary-General Amid Calls for Global Cooperation and Equity <\/p>\n<p class=\"text-date\">  Saturday, May 31, 2025<\/p>\n<p><img class=\"wp-image-870368 br-lazy\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0naHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmcnIHZpZXdCb3g9JzAgMCA4NTAgODUwJz48L3N2Zz4=\" data-breeze=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/European-City-K-850x850.jpg\" title=\"European city k - travel and tour world\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"850\" alt=\"\" data-br data-br\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>In a momentous decision reshaping the landscape of global tourism leadership, Shaikha Al Nowais<\/strong> of the <strong>United Arab Emirates<\/strong> has been <strong>elected as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism<\/strong>, following a landmark vote by the Executive Council in <strong>Madrid<\/strong>, Spain. Her victory marks a historic first\u2014the <strong>first woman to lead the international tourism body<\/strong> since its founding, signaling a transformative chapter for the organization and global travel governance.<\/p>\n<p>The selection process, which took place on <strong>May 30, 2025<\/strong>, drew international attention as tourism ministers, diplomats, and industry stakeholders awaited the outcome of one of the most contested elections in the agency\u2019s history.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A Groundbreaking Win for Women and the Middle East<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Al Nowais<\/strong>, who currently serves as <strong>Corporate Vice President at Rotana Hotels in Abu Dhabi<\/strong>, emerged as a frontrunner from the outset. She secured <strong>16 votes in the first round<\/strong>, quickly building consensus among council members, and ultimately clinched <strong>24 votes in the second round<\/strong>\u2014well above the required 18 votes to secure the nomination.<\/p>\n<p>Her victory not only represents a breakthrough for <strong>gender representation in global tourism leadership<\/strong>, but also places the <strong>United Arab Emirates<\/strong> at the forefront of shaping the sector\u2019s global agenda. Pending formal ratification by the <strong>United Nations General Assembly<\/strong>, <strong>Shaikha Al Nowais<\/strong> will officially take office in <strong>January 2026<\/strong>, overseeing the organization\u2019s operations for the <strong>2026\u20132029 term<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A Vision Rooted in Innovation, Inclusion, and Sustainability<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Following her nomination, <strong>Al Nowais<\/strong> laid out a comprehensive and visionary agenda for transforming global tourism, centered on five strategic pillars:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Responsible Tourism<\/strong>: Fostering tourism that protects the environment, celebrates cultural heritage, and benefits communities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Capacity Building<\/strong>: Prioritizing the empowerment of <strong>women, youth, and local leaders<\/strong> in tourism development.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Technology for Good<\/strong>: Promoting innovation that enhances travel experiences while respecting data privacy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Innovative Financing<\/strong>: Developing sustainable investment models to support long-term tourism infrastructure.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Smart Governance<\/strong>: Implementing transparent and accountable systems within UN Tourism and its initiatives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Her goals underscore a clear departure from traditional models and embrace <strong>a future-forward approach to global tourism governance<\/strong>. The emphasis on <strong>sustainability, inclusion, and innovation<\/strong> aligns closely with ongoing global priorities as the travel industry rebounds from the pandemic and responds to shifting consumer expectations.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Abu Dhabi\u2019s Rise as a Global Tourism Powerhouse<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Al Nowais\u2019 election also shines a spotlight on <strong>Abu Dhabi<\/strong>, which in recent years has ramped up its investments in tourism infrastructure and global entertainment attractions. The emirate has announced high-profile projects such as:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A <strong>new Disneyland park<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>A <strong>Las Vegas-style Sphere entertainment venue<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Expansions in heritage tourism, cultural sites, and smart city travel technology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These initiatives demonstrate <strong>the UAE\u2019s commitment to establishing itself as a global tourism hub<\/strong>, and Al Nowais\u2019 new position is expected to further elevate the region\u2019s voice on the world stage.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Competitors Reflect on Campaigns and Regional Strength<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Among the six candidates for the role, <strong>Greece\u2019s Harry Theoharis<\/strong> finished second with <strong>11 votes<\/strong>. The former <strong>Minister of Tourism of Greece<\/strong>, Theoharis played a pivotal role in <strong>revitalizing Greek tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic<\/strong>, earning him international recognition.<\/p>\n<p>In his post-election statement, he <strong>congratulated Al Nowais<\/strong> and reaffirmed Greece\u2019s role as a constructive contributor to international tourism policy. His campaign highlighted <strong>green development, community empowerment<\/strong>, and <strong>institutional transparency<\/strong>, aiming to position <strong>Greece as a leader in fair and resilient tourism<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Another prominent figure, <strong>Mexico\u2019s Gloria Guevara<\/strong>, a former Minister of Tourism and long-time global tourism advocate, was eliminated in the first round with <strong>eight votes<\/strong>. Her campaign emphasized the Global South, sustainability, and tourism resilience. In a <strong>gracious concession<\/strong>, Guevara expressed gratitude to <strong>Mexico\u2019s government and President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo<\/strong>, and pledged continued support for global tourism initiatives.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Africa\u2019s Representation and Lessons from the Vote<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Ghana\u2019s Muhammed Adam<\/strong>, the candidate endorsed by the <strong>African Union<\/strong>, received just <strong>two votes<\/strong>, also exiting in the first round. His campaign brought valuable attention to the need for <strong>greater representation of developing nations<\/strong> in global tourism governance.<\/p>\n<p>Adam\u2019s candidacy spotlighted the need for <strong>technical assistance, funding, and multilateral support for tourism in underrepresented regions<\/strong>. Though unsuccessful, his participation was a key milestone in advocating for <strong>Africa\u2019s voice<\/strong> in international travel development discussions.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Key Strategic Challenges Awaiting the New Secretary-General<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>As <strong>Shaikha Al Nowais<\/strong> prepares to assume office in 2026, she faces a dynamic set of challenges that will shape her tenure. Most notably:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Membership Decline<\/strong>: Key countries such as the <strong>United States<\/strong>, <strong>Canada<\/strong>, and the <strong>United Kingdom<\/strong> have <strong>withdrawn from UN Tourism<\/strong>, citing concerns about governance and value proposition.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rebuilding Trust<\/strong>: Re-engaging with these former members and restoring credibility within the global tourism community will be crucial.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Post-Pandemic Recovery<\/strong>: Aligning the organization\u2019s resources with the evolving needs of the sector, including <strong>health safety<\/strong>, <strong>digital transformation<\/strong>, and <strong>sustainable tourism strategies<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Equitable Development<\/strong>: Ensuring that small and developing nations receive adequate support in tourism development and promotion.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>With mounting pressure for reform, her leadership will be a test of <strong>visionary action and effective diplomacy<\/strong> within a complex geopolitical landscape.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why This Election Matters for Global Tourism<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The <strong>UN Tourism Secretary-General<\/strong> holds a unique position at the nexus of <strong>policy, diplomacy, and industry<\/strong>, shaping the future of a sector that contributes <strong>over 10% to global GDP<\/strong> and supports <strong>hundreds of millions of jobs worldwide<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Al Nowais\u2019 appointment is more than a symbolic win for gender equality<\/strong>; it also marks a strategic pivot toward <strong>21st-century governance in tourism<\/strong>\u2014emphasizing agility, equity, innovation, and collaboration.<\/p>\n<p>For industry professionals, governments, and communities, this leadership change presents both <strong>opportunity and responsibility<\/strong>. Under Al Nowais, <strong>UN Tourism<\/strong> is expected to accelerate efforts toward more <strong>inclusive, climate-resilient, and tech-enabled tourism systems<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>He reaffirmed his role as a <strong>Member of the Hellenic Parliament<\/strong>, pledging continued contributions to both national and international tourism efforts.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A New Chapter Begins<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>With her election, <strong>Shaikha Al Nowais becomes not only the first woman to lead UN Tourism<\/strong> but also a symbol of transformation in how tourism leadership is envisioned and implemented. Her <strong>inclusive and dynamic platform<\/strong>, combined with a clear understanding of the challenges ahead, sets the tone for what many expect to be a <strong>groundbreaking administration<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>As the global travel sector continues to evolve post-pandemic\u2014facing everything from <strong>climate change<\/strong> to <strong>digital disruption<\/strong>\u2014the need for <strong>strong, transparent, and innovative leadership<\/strong> has never been greater.<\/p>\n<p>With <strong>Abu Dhabi<\/strong>, <strong>Madrid<\/strong>, and the global tourism community watching closely, <strong>2026 will usher in a new era of global cooperation, visionary strategy, and sustainable travel development<\/strong>\u2014all under the guidance of a historic new leader.<\/p>\n<p>Tags: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/abu-dhabi-tourism-news\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Abu Dhabi Tourism News<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/africa\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Africa<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/asia-2\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Asia<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/canada-2\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Canada<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/europe\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Europe<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/ghana\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">ghana<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/greece\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">greece<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/madrid-tourism-news\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Madrid Tourism news<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/mexico\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">mexico<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/north-america\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">north america<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/spain-tourism-news\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Spain Tourism News<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/travel-news\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Travel News<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/uae-tourism-news\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">UAE tourism news<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/united-arab-emirates\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">United Arab Emirates<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/united-kingdom\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">United Kingdom<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/news\/article\/tag\/united-states\/\" rel=\"tag noopener\" target=\"_blank\">United States<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a class=\"gofollow\" data-track=\"NzMsNiwxLDYw\" href=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/ttwapp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"br-lazy\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0naHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmcnIHZpZXdCb3g9JzAgMCAwIDAnPjwvc3ZnPg==\" data-breeze=\"https:\/\/www.travelandtourworld.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/leaderboard-app-design24.jpg\" style=\"max-width: 728px; height: auto\"\/><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Home \u00bb TOURISM NEWS \u00bb United Arab Emirates, Spain, Greece, Mexico, Ghana, United States, Canada, United Kingdom: Nations&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":147688,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,4],"tags":[63349,2740,521,748,943,42988,393,299,19912,4884,1450,42547,49077,63352,63353,46398,43775,63350,2132,42990,300,1144,712,50928,42549,63354,42541,1559,63351,16,2723,49445,15,42558,49,1764],"class_list":{"0":"post-147687","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-uk","8":"category-united-kingdom","9":"tag-abu-dhabi-tourism-news","10":"tag-africa","11":"tag-asia","12":"tag-britain","13":"tag-canada","14":"tag-canada-travel-news","15":"tag-england","16":"tag-europe","17":"tag-ghana","18":"tag-great-britain","19":"tag-greece","20":"tag-greece-travel-news","21":"tag-latest-travel-news-of-canada","22":"tag-latest-travel-news-of-ghana","23":"tag-latest-travel-news-of-mexico","24":"tag-latest-travel-news-of-spain","25":"tag-latest-travel-news-of-united-states","26":"tag-madrid-tourism-news","27":"tag-mexico","28":"tag-mexico-travel-news","29":"tag-north-america","30":"tag-northern-ireland","31":"tag-scotland","32":"tag-spain-tourism-news","33":"tag-spain-travel-news","34":"tag-top-destinations-in-ghana","35":"tag-tourism-news","36":"tag-travel-news","37":"tag-uae-tourism-news","38":"tag-uk","39":"tag-united-arab-emirates","40":"tag-united-arab-emirates-travel-news","41":"tag-united-kingdom","42":"tag-united-kingdom-travel-news","43":"tag-united-states","44":"tag-wales"},"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"","error":"Validation failed: Text character limit of 500 exceeded"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/147687","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=147687"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/147687\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/147688"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=147687"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=147687"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=147687"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}