Nora Abusitta: Bridging Diplomacy, Technology, and Global Engagement

Nora Abusitta is a seasoned international relations and public diplomacy professional currently serving as Vice President for Development and Public Responsibility Programs at the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). Her career demonstrates a consistent focus on fostering dialogue, collaboration, and impactful global engagement, spanning roles in government, international organizations, and the technology sector.

Early Career and UAE Government Service

Abusitta’s early career was rooted in international affairs. From 2007 to 2014, she served as Chief of Staff and Advisor to the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Washington, D.C. During this time, she oversaw the establishment of the UAE’s first U.S. West Coast Consulate in Los Angeles and managed diplomatic, policy, and trade engagements nationwide. Prior to her role as Chief of Staff, she advised the ambassador on strategy and organizational design, focusing on continuous improvement.

ICANN Leadership

At ICANN, Abusitta leads programs focused on the organization’s role in enabling growth within the Domain Name System (DNS) industry and related sectors globally. Her responsibilities include protecting and promoting the global public interest in the Internet. She previously oversaw ICANN’s engagement with intergovernmental and international organizations. She likewise launched and grew ICANN’s Development and Public Responsibility Department, including the ICANN Online Learning Platform, and developed youth-focused initiatives on internet literacy, connectivity, and participation in policy development.

Recognition and Advisory Roles

Abusitta’s expertise and leadership have been recognized through her appointment to the Advisory Board of the USC Center on Public Diplomacy (CPD). According to CPD Advisory Board Chair Barry A. Sanders, her ability to bridge diplomacy, technology, and institutional leadership will strengthen the Center’s strategic vision. Members of the CPD Advisory Board serve three-year terms, providing support and guidance to CPD staff.

Education and Professional Development

Abusitta holds a Bachelor’s degree in French and Russian from the University of Heriot-Watt, Edinburgh, Scotland, and a Master’s degree in Simultaneous Interpreting and Translation from the same institution. She also earned a Master’s degree in French literature from Arizona State University and completed the Executive Program at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, as well as the Summer Institute of Public Diplomacy at USC.