Basmah Al-Mayman Recognized Among Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024
In her role as Regional Director for the Middle East, Basmah Al-Mayman has led efforts centered on the development of sustainable tourism and is still an advocate for education and capacity-building activities throughout the region.
Hozpitality Group is proud to acknowledge Basmah Al-Mayman, Regional Director for the Middle East at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), as one of the Top 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024.
Al-Mayman's leadership has significantly contributed to the growth and development of the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
Basmah Al-Mayman's extensive career spans over 21 years, beginning with her role at the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH). Over 17 years at SCTH, she was critical in shaping Saudi Arabia's international tourism relations, working closely with global organizations like UNESCO, the World Bank, and UN agencies. As the manager of the International Organizations and Committees Department, Al-Mayman fostered strong international partnerships, enhancing Saudi Arabia's position on the global tourism stage.
One of her notable achievements was being the first woman from the GCC to hold a leading position at UNWTO. As Regional Director for the Middle East, she has spearheaded initiatives that focus on sustainable tourism development, and she continues to advocate for education and capacity-building programs across the region.
At the UNWTO, Al-Mayman has been recognized for her visionary leadership, particularly in sustainable tourism. She was a key figure in the development of the UNWTO Sustainable Tourism – Eliminating Poverty Initiative (ST-EP) for the Middle East and was appointed Vice-Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee on the UNWTO Framework Convention on Tourism Ethics during the 22nd General Assembly in China. Under her leadership, Saudi Arabia achieved a historic milestone by conducting the highest number of education and training activities in UNWTO Academy's history within a single member state.
Basmah Al-Mayman's achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including being ranked 13th in Forbes Middle East's 2020 "Power List" of top businesswomen, where she was the only Arab woman representing tourism. Her achievements highlight her contributions to the industry and reflect her dedication and trailblazing efforts in promoting tourism in the region.
Al-Mayman holds a Bachelor's degree in English Literature and Linguistics from King Saud University and an MBA from Alfaisal University, where she graduated with second honors. She also completed advanced entrepreneurship and international relations studies at the University of Oxford and the Prince Saud Al-Faisal Institute of Diplomatic Studies. Fluent in Arabic and English, she combines her academic background with practical diplomacy and tourism management expertise.
As the first woman to lead the Middle East region in the history of the UNWTO, Basmah Al-Mayman continues to be a leading force in driving sustainable tourism initiatives. Her inclusion among Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024 highlights her outstanding contributions to the tourism industry, both regionally and globally.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE