Global Tourism Forum Honours Hala Matar Choufany with “Best Woman in Tourism Leadership” Award at 2025 Annual Meeting

Brussels — Global Tourism Forum (GTF) has recognised Hala Matar Choufany, President of HVS Middle East, Africa & South Asia, with the Best Woman in Tourism Leadership Award at its Annual Meeting, held at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium.

The Best Woman in Tourism Leadership Award celebrates women whose vision, advocacy, and influence have left a lasting impact on global tourism. Hala joins a distinguished group of women who have redefined industry standards and inspired a new generation of tourism leaders.

With more than two decades of experience advising governments, investors, and hospitality groups across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, she has guided over 5,000 hospitality and mixed-use projects. Beyond her advisory work, Hala has become a recognised voice for transparency, regional collaboration, and the advancement of women in leadership.

This recognition is especially rewarding. It represents the shared efforts of many who believe in the power of tourism to connect people, economies, and ideas. Tourism accounts for over 10% of global GDP and supports one in every ten jobs worldwide — and for women, particularly across Africa and the Middle East, it remains one of the most powerful igniters of economic empowerment. Hala Matar Choufany

Bulut Bağcı, President of the Global Tourism Forum, commented, Hala’s leadership represents the perfect balance of intellect, empathy, and execution. Her ability to unite governments, investors, and communities under a shared vision of progress makes her a true ambassador for global tourism.

The Global Tourism Forum Annual Meeting, part of World Travel Week, brings together heads of state, ministers, investors, and tourism leaders from around the world to advance dialogue on innovation, investment, and inclusive growth.

About the Global Tourism Forum (GTF)

The Global Tourism Forum is an international collaboration platform launched by the World Tourism Forum Institute, dedicated to shaping the future of travel through strategic partnerships, policy innovation, and sustainable development.