The Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs endorsed Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates to be Secretary-General of UN Tourism after incumbent Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili withdrew from the race, reported withdrawn from the race for a third term, reported Travel Tomorrow.
Five candidates remain in the race, including Al Nowais, who, if elected, would become the first woman from the Middle East to lead the organization.
"Georgia’s unexpected shift from Pololikashvili to Al Nowais has sparked speculation about broader realignments among UN Tourism member states," reported Travel Tomorrow.
UN Tourism, formerly known as the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), is a specialized agency of the United Nations, headquartered in New York City.
The agency collaborates with 160 Member States, six Associate Members, and over 500 Affiliate Members to position tourism as a key driver of economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability. The Secretary-General serves as the chief administrative officer, overseeing the implementation of the organization's programs and strategies, managing the Secretariat, representing UN Tourism at international forums, and guiding the organization's work in areas such as tourism policy, education, and statistics.
The election process involves a recommendation by the UN Tourism Executive Council, scheduled for May 29–30, 2025, in Madrid. The final appointment will be made by the General Assembly during its 26th session in Riyadh between November 7–11, 2025.
The five officially proclaimed remaining candidates are Muhammad Adam of Ghana, Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais of the United Arab Emirates, Habib Ammar of Tunisia, Gloria Guevara of Mexico, and Harry Theoharis of Greece.
Shaikha Al Nowais's nomination is particularly noteworthy, as she would be the first woman from the Middle East to lead UN Tourism if elected. Her candidacy reflects the UAE's commitment to empowering Emirati women in leadership roles and promoting the growth and sustainability of the global tourism sector, reported The Gulf Observer.
Zurab Pololikashvili, the current Secretary-General, was seeking re-election for a third term.
UN Tourism plays a crucial role in collecting and disseminating tourism statistics, providing insights on key indicators for inbound and outbound tourism at global, regional, and national levels. The organization's data dashboard offers comprehensive information on tourist arrivals, tourism's share of exports, contribution to GDP, and more.
As the election approaches, the global tourism community awaits the selection of a leader who will guide the sector through its ongoing recovery and future development.