Breaking Barriers with HE Shaikha Al Nowais: The First Woman to Lead UN Tourism on Purpose & Impact
Episode notes
On this World Tourism Day, She Leads brings you an extraordinary conversation with a trailblazer rewriting the global story of travel.
H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais has just made history as the first Emirati and first woman elected Secretary-General of UN Tourism — placing her at the forefront of one of the world’s most influential platforms for peace, sustainability, and inclusive growth.
In this episode, she reveals:
• The defining moments that prepared her to lead 160+ nations.
• Why tourism is not just leisure — but a driver of ecosystems, economies, and dignity.
• Her five-pillar global vision for sustainability, digital equity, economic empowerment, cultural exchange, and ethical governance.
• How Expo 2020 became a blueprint for global collaboration.
• Why empowering women, youth, and artisans is central to the future of tourism.
• The leadership principles she believes the world needs most right now.
Tourism, she argues, is one of humanity’s greatest untapped forces — not just to build economies, but to bridge nations and heal divides. Tune in for a World Tourism Day special that will change the way you see travel — and leadership itself.