Khaled al-Anani: Egyptologist and First Arab Leader of UNESCO

Khaled Ahmed al-Anani stands out as a leading scholar and researcher in Egyptology and the first Arab to be elected Director-General of UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. His career blends academic teaching, archaeological research, and high-level governmental administration.

From Giza to Global Cultural Leadership

Born on March 14, 1971, in Giza, Egypt, al-Anani graduated from Helwan University in Tourism Guidance in 1992. He advanced his studies in Egyptology, obtaining a master's thesis on Nubian temples (1996) and an honorary PhD from University of Montpellier 3, France, in 2024.

Distinguished Academic and Administrative Career

He spent over three decades teaching and researching, holding positions such as Egyptology professor at Helwan University and key member of the French Institute of Oriental Archaeology. From 2006-2023, he was a visiting professor in France.

Professionally, he served as Egypt’s Minister of Antiquities (2016), then Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, leading the ministries’ merger. He supervised over 2,000 archaeological sites and major restoration projects.

Leading Major Projects and Heritage Promotion

Al-Anani spearheaded projects like the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization and the Grand Egyptian Museum; established international partnerships including with UNESCO; organized international exhibitions; served as UN Cultural Tourism Ambassador; and patronized the African World Heritage Fund.

UNESCO Directorship

In October 2025, he was elected Director-General of UNESCO, becoming the first Arab to hold the position and emerging as a key global leader in culture and education.

Vision for the Future

His leadership focuses on strengthening UNESCO’s global presence, expanding its impact in heritage protection and culture, and supporting sustainable education — drawing on his rich academic and administrative background to implement strategic reforms addressing contemporary challenges.

Summary

Khaled al-Anani embodies a pioneering Arab figure merging science with governance. His election as UNESCO’s Director-General marks a milestone highlighting the Middle East’s potential in global culture and education.