Alumna Rania Al-Mashat Egypt's New Minister of Tourism

Rania Al-Mashat '95 is Egypt's new Minister of Tourism –– the first woman to hold this position since the ministry was established more than five decades ago.

This new title suits the young and successful Egyptian leader, who has always emphasized being driven by a sense of responsibility to serve her country.  “Every international and domestic post or recognition along my career path better equips me to competently serve my country," said Al-Mashat. "That’s my lifelong goal."

As a leading expert in monetary policy and international economics, Al Mashat has worked with prominent financial institutions in Egypt and worldwide since graduating from AUC with a Bachelor of Arts in economics. At the International Monetary Fund (IMF), she served as adviser to its chief economist, Professor Maurice Obstfeld, and senior economist. She also played a key role in working to modernize and develop the Central Bank of Egypt as assistant sub-governor and head of its Monetary Policy Department. 

Recipient of the 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award from AUC, Al-Mashat is well-known as a global economist. In 2017, she participated in the World Economic Forum’s “Investing in Peace,” a panel composed of influential global figures. She was among a list of 10 renowned economics experts whose input was sought for a World Economic Forum article discussing making the world a fairer place. In 2014, the World Economic Forum named her a Young Global Leader for her commitment to bettering Egypt through her impactful work.  

Read more about Al-Mashat's experience at AUC and her professional achievements since.