Dr. Edith M Szivas

Dr. Edith Szivas is an internationally recognized strategist, advisor, and academic leader with more than 25 years of experience in tourism, hospitality, and business development. Her expertise spans sustainable tourism planning, destination strategy, heritage conservation, and capacity building across public and private sectors worldwide.

Dr. Szivas has led and advised on major international projects for organizations including the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), World Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), UNDP, and Asian Development Bank, as well as national ministries and private-sector partners in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.

Her work focuses on bridging policy and practice—helping governments and institutions design strategies that balance economic growth, community engagement, and cultural sustainability.

In academia, Dr. Szivas has held senior positions at the University of Surrey (UK), the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT, Barcelona), where she contributes to global initiatives promoting responsible tourism and cultural identity The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management (part of the Jumeirah Group in Dubai), and MODUL University Dubai, where she developed and led internationally accredited programs in tourism and hospitality management.

Dr. Szivas holds a PhD in Tourism Policy from the University of Surrey, UK, and a degree in International Trade. She is also a member of the jury for the European Region of Gastronomy (Norway and other countries) and continues to advise governments on sustainable destination strategies across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, China, and Africa.

A respected speaker and published author, Dr. Szivas has contributed extensively to international discourse on tourism development, responsible growth, and cultural innovation.ready global community.