UAE Strengthens Global Leadership And Diplomatic Presence

The United Arab Emirates has continued to strengthen its role on the global stage in 2025, gaining widespread recognition for its diplomatic influence and international cooperation. Through its active engagement and growing soft power, the UAE has achieved several prestigious leadership positions in major international and regional organisations. These achievements highlight the world’s confidence in the UAE’s leadership and the capabilities of its people.

One of the UAE’s most notable successes came with the election of Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais as the Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for the 2026–2029 term. This marks a historic moment as she becomes the first woman ever to hold this position since the organisation was founded in 1975. Her appointment not only represents a personal milestone but also underscores the UAE’s global leadership in promoting sustainable tourism and international cooperation in travel development.

In another remarkable achievement, Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak was re-elected as President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) for a second term during the IUCN World Conservation Congress held in Abu Dhabi. Representing more than 1,400 organisations from 160 countries, IUCN plays a crucial role in global environmental conservation. Al Mubarak’s re-election makes her the first president from West Asia and only the second woman to lead IUCN in its 77-year history, further cementing the UAE’s growing reputation in global environmental leadership.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) General Assembly, during its 150th session in Uzbekistan, elected the UAE as a member of the IPU Health Committee. The country is represented by Dr. Sedra Rashid Al Mansouri, a Member of the Federal National Council (FNC). This membership highlights the UAE’s commitment to strengthening global health systems and sharing its expertise in medical innovation and public health. It also emphasizes the UAE’s dedication to supporting international efforts to promote healthcare access and sustainable health development.

Adding to its growing list of accomplishments, Emirati representative Mira Sultan Al Suwaidi was elected as the Chair of the IPU Standing Committee on Sustainable Development. Her new role reflects the UAE’s leadership in sustainability and environmental policy-making on the global stage. The UAE’s continuous efforts to promote renewable energy, green economy, and environmental resilience have positioned it as a key voice in international sustainable development discussions.

The World Economic Forum also recognized several Emirati figures for their global influence in 2025. Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Development; Meera Sultan Al Suwaidi, FNC Member; and Dr. Tuka Waddah Alhanai, Assistant Professor at New York University Abu Dhabi, were all selected as members of the Young Global Leaders Council 2025. Their inclusion highlights the growing role of Emirati women in shaping future global policies and technological innovation.

The UAE Ministry of Interior achieved another major milestone by assuming the presidency of the INTERPOL Committee on Governance, one of the organisation’s primary committees. This appointment reflects the UAE’s international credibility in law enforcement and global security collaboration. Additionally, the UAE became the first GCC nation to join INTERPOL’s Global Congress on Chemical Security and Emerging Threats Steering Committee. This demonstrates its leadership in combating international threats and promoting security partnerships.

In a major diplomatic success, the UAE was elected President of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) for the first time. The nation also secured a seat on UN-Habitat’s Executive Board, reinforcing its role in urban development and sustainable city planning. In addition, the UAE maintained its membership on the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for the seventh consecutive term, winning the majority of votes. This continued representation demonstrates trust in the UAE’s aviation sector and its contribution to global air safety and policy-making.

The UAE’s achievements extended to the environmental and scientific sectors within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). During the fifth Islamic Conference of Ministers Responsible for Water in Jeddah, the UAE was elected as a member of the OIC Water Council. The council focuses on implementing the OIC’s water vision and promoting cooperation in water management, research, and technology among member countries. This membership reflects the UAE’s dedication to finding sustainable solutions for global water security.

Through these major appointments, the UAE has demonstrated that it is not only a regional power but also a trusted international partner. The election of Emirati leaders to influential roles across tourism, sustainability, security, and governance highlights the country’s growing impact on international decision-making. The UAE continues to build bridges between nations, advocate for global cooperation, and contribute to a more sustainable and secure world.