Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated to Become First Woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism

Shaikha Al Nowais Nominated to Become First Woman Secretary-General of UN Tourism

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 2, 2025

In a historic move for the global tourism industry, Shaikha Al Nowais has been officially nominated to serve as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism, beginning January 2026. The nomination came during the 123rd session of the UN Tourism Executive Council held in Segovia, Spain, and marks the first time a woman has been chosen to lead the organisation in its 50-year history.

An accomplished Emirati business leader, Al Nowais brings over 16 years of expertise in hospitality. She currently serves as the Corporate Vice President of Rotana Hotels and is a well-respected figure in the tourism ecosystem. Beyond her executive role, she also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group and is a board member of both the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy.

Her nomination not only underscores her personal accomplishments but also signals a significant step forward in enhancing gender representation at the highest levels of international tourism leadership.

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The Segovia session was also a moment of reflection and review, as outgoing Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili looked back on eight years of transformative leadership. “We have put tourism at the forefront of the global agenda to enhance its competitiveness and economic value,” he said. He highlighted the organisation’s focus areas, including education, investment, rural development, women’s empowerment, and innovation.

In addition to leadership transitions, the Council reviewed sectoral progress as global travel continues to rebound. According to the UN Tourism Barometer released in May 2025, international tourist arrivals surpassed 300 million in the first quarter of the year—14 million more than the same period in 2024.

Member States also received updates on the expansion of the UN Tourism Online Academy, improved data systems, and fresh initiatives in sustainable tourism. One of the session’s major announcements was the launch of the first UN Tourism Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa. Based in Rabat and developed in partnership with Morocco’s Ministry of Tourism, the office will drive innovation-focused tourism projects across the continent in alignment with the UN Tourism 2030 Agenda for Africa.

As Shaikha Al Nowais prepares to take the reins in 2026, her appointment represents both a milestone and a message: the future of global tourism will be driven by inclusive leadership and bold innovation.


Vineet Kumar Mishra Appointed General Manager at Novotel Guwahati GS Road

Vineet Kumar Mishra Appointed General Manager at Novotel Guwahati GS Road

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 31, 2025

Novotel Guwahati GS Road has announced the appointment of Vineet Kumar Mishra as its new General Manager. With a remarkable career spanning over 19 years, Mishra brings extensive leadership experience from renowned hospitality brands such as Hilton, Radisson, Accor, and Lemon Tree Hotels.

Throughout his professional journey, he has successfully led diverse teams, driven operational excellence, and introduced guest-centric initiatives that reflect his deep passion for hospitality and service innovation. His strategic mindset and people-first approach have consistently contributed to enhanced guest satisfaction and sustainable business growth.

Sharing his excitement about the new role, Vineet Kumar Mishra said,

“As I step into this exciting new role, I look forward to continuing my journey with Accor and leading an incredible team, fostering a culture of excellence, and delivering memorable experiences for every guest at Novotel Guwahati GS Road.”

With Mishra’s appointment, Novotel Guwahati GS Road aims to strengthen its leadership team and reinforce its commitment to offering exceptional service and enriching guest experiences in the region.


Satish Semwal Appointed as General Manager of Fortune Park Haridwar

Satish Semwal Appointed as General Manager of Fortune Park Haridwar

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 31, 2025

Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels Group, has announced the appointment of Satish Semwal as the General Manager of Fortune Park Haridwar.

A seasoned hotelier with over 18 years of experience, Semwal brings a proven track record in hotel operations, brand management, and service excellence. In his new role, he will lead the hotel’s operations with a focus on enhancing guest experiences and further strengthening the brand’s presence in the region.

Throughout his distinguished career, Semwal has held leadership positions across reputed hospitality brands including Lemon Tree Hotels, Sarovar Portico, Amatra Dunsvirk Court Mussoorie, Holiday Inn Katra, and Hilton Worldwide India.

Before joining Fortune Park Haridwar, he served as General Manager at Sarovar Portico Panipat, where he successfully improved operational performance and reinforced the hotel’s market position.

Known for his strong operational insight, people-first leadership style, and dedication to service quality, Satish Semwal is poised to play a key role in driving growth and excellence at Fortune Park Haridwar.


Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore Appoints Michael Bikash Gomes as New Human Resources Manager

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore Appoints Michael Bikash Gomes as New Human Resources Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 30, 2025

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore has announced the appointment of Michael Bikash Gomes as its new Human Resources Manager. In this role, Michael will oversee the complete HR lifecycle at the property, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, training and development, employee relations, and labor law compliance.

Michael brings with him over nine years of experience in the hospitality sector, having previously served at Hyatt Place Hampi, where he successfully led HR operations and implemented the Hyatt People Philosophy with great success. His expertise in employee engagement, HR policy development, and compliance management is expected to further strengthen Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore’s human resources function and enrich the overall employee experience.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Michael Bikash Gomes said,

“Being back with the Hyatt Centric MG Road family makes me very happy! The warm welcome and support from everyone have warmed my heart. I'm thrilled to be back on such a vibrant team and am looking forward to developing, learning, and making memories with the Centric Circuit team. Cheers to a wonderful adventure!”

With Michael’s appointment, Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore continues to uphold its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, aligned with Hyatt’s core values of care, development, and well-being.

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