UAE Strengthens Global Influence By Securing Leadership Roles In International Organisations For 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is enhancing its global presence by securing leadership roles in international and regional organisations. This strategy highlights the UAE's soft power and credibility on the world stage. Throughout 2025, several Emirati leaders have been appointed to high-ranking international positions, showcasing global trust in the UAE's capabilities and its citizens' contributions to international affairs.

In a historic achievement, Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais was elected as Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for 2026–2029. She is the first woman to hold this position since the organisation's inception in 1975, reinforcing the UAE's prominent role globally.

Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak was re-elected as President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This decision was made during the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi. She is notable for being the first president from West Asia and only the second woman to lead IUCN in its 77-year history.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) General Assembly, held in Uzbekistan, saw Dr. Sedra Rashid Al Mansouri elected to represent the UAE on the IPU Health Committee. Additionally, Mira Sultan Al Suwaidi was chosen as Chair of the IPU Standing Committee on Sustainable Development, further cementing the UAE’s leadership in global sustainability efforts.

In April, Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Development; Meera Sultan Al Suwaidi, FNC Member; and Tuka Waddah Alhanai, Assistant Professor at New York University Abu Dhabi, were selected by the World Economic Forum as members of the Young Global Leaders Council 2025. This selection underscores the UAE’s growing influence in global thought leadership.

The UAE Ministry of Interior achieved a milestone by assuming presidency of INTERPOL's Committee on Governance. This appointment highlights the nation's integrity and leadership in international security cooperation. The Ministry also joined INTERPOL's Global Congress on Chemical Security and Emerging Threats Steering Committee, marking a first for any GCC country.

Achievements in Aviation and Water Management

The UAE secured membership on the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for a seventh consecutive term after winning a majority vote during elections. This ongoing membership reflects continued confidence in their aviation sector expertise.

During Jeddah's fifth Islamic Conference of Ministers Responsible for Water, the UAE was elected to join the Water Council of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). This council oversees implementing water vision strategies and promotes technical cooperation among member states.

The UAE achieved another significant milestone by being elected President of UN-Habitat's General Assembly for the first time while also securing a spot on its Executive Board. These roles highlight their commitment to sustainable urban development worldwide.

With inputs from WAM