Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated as First Woman Secretary-General

The UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (CAF), brought together tourism leaders, government officials, and creative-sector stakeholders to chart a future where tourism drives lasting, inclusive development across the region. The event brought together more than 300 delegates, including 18 Ministers of Tourism, reflecting the high-level support for UN Tourism’s work and vision for the region.

UN Tourism has united tourism leaders from across the region for Europe to assess advances made with global, regional and subregional initiatives for a more resilient, sustainable and innovative sector.

The UN Tourism Executive Council has met again for a milestone session to build on the legacy of the last eight years. Meeting for its 123rd session, the Council assessed progress made around the priorities of innovation, investments and education and looked ahead with the nomination of Shaikha Al Nowais as new Secretary-General from 2026. Upon confirmation by the UN Tourism General Assembly, Ms. Shaikha Al Nowais will become the woman to hold the position.

International tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) increased by 5% in the first quarter of 2025 though results were mixed among regions and sub-regions.

A new initiative by UN Tourism, the Mountain Partnership Secretariat at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) seeks to strengthen the connection between agrifood systems and tourism in seven Pacific Islands. By designing tourism experiences and itineraries that showcase local products and gastronomy, the project aims to maximize value for producers, communities, and destinations in the Pacific SIDS.

UN Tourism has named Dr. Larry Dwyer, Professor and Adjunct Fellow at the University of Technology Sydney, as the winner of the 2025 Ulysses Prize for Excellence in the Creation and Dissemination of Knowledge in Tourism.

At Japan’s Expo 2025, UN Tourism highlighted the key role of innovation and education for driving transformation and female empowerment in the sector.

The 2nd UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa reinforced the region’s growing commitment to make gastronomy tourism a key driver in social and economic development.

Destinations are increasingly focusing on fashion to enhance the tourism experiences and empower local communities, especially among indigenous populations, as well as small-scale creators and businesses.