The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant diplomatic strides by becoming the first country to assume the presidency of the General Assembly of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat).

In a landmark achievement, the UAE, sharing this role with Malaysia, secured its position during a competitive election at the Assembly meetings in Nairobi, Kenya.

This designation underscores the UAE's commitment to addressing global urban issues and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The UN-Habitat General Assembly consists of 193 member states and serves as the program's highest decision-making body, tasked with guiding policies that improve urban living conditions.

The UAE's election is perceived as a recognition of its efforts in promoting sustainable urban development and housing initiatives tailored to the needs of diverse communities.

Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, expressed pride in this accomplishment, highlighting it as a reflection of the UAE's strategic priorities aimed at fostering social stability through housing and urban development.

He emphasized the country's ongoing initiatives aimed at providing integrated housing environments conducive to citizen welfare and dignity.

Key programs, such as the Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme, have reportedly enhanced family stability and fulfilled housing demands for Emirati citizens since its inception in 1999.

Al Mazrouei indicated that the UAE will utilize its presidency to promote Goal 11 of the UN SDGs, which is focused on creating inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable human settlements.

He noted that the joint presidency with Malaysia will facilitate international dialogue and the sharing of best practices among member states, allowing for innovative solutions to the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and climate change.

Moreover, the UAE aims to collaborate with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and the private sector, to develop actionable plans addressing housing needs worldwide.

Al Mazrouei characterized this role as both a responsibility and an opportunity to extend the UAE's contributions to global housing and urban planning initiatives.

In a related development, Emirati business leader Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais has been elected the first female Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a position she will assume in 2026 and hold until 2029. Her election follows a vote by 35 member states during a session at the UNWTO headquarters in Madrid.

This appointment has been heralded as a pioneering step for the empowerment of Emirati women in leadership roles and reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing gender equality within key sectors.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum have publicly congratulated Al Nowais, commending her extensive experience and the significance of her role in leading transformation within the global tourism sector.

In her initial comments, Al Nowais expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her and highlighted her vision for the UNWTO, which includes emphasizing responsible tourism, youth and women's empowerment, technology-driven solutions, and transparent governance.

She outlined her ambition to lead a global shift towards sustainable tourism that prioritizes environmental protection and broadens economic opportunities for communities.

These developments illustrate the UAE’s expanding influence in global governance, particularly in the areas of sustainable development and tourism, positioning the nation as a key player in addressing pressing international challenges.