Modern day challenges in promoting tourism in the Middle East

By

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This research would not have been possible without the help of my family and my supervisor so I would like to thank them for their support.

DECLARATION

I, [type your full first names and surname here], declare that the contents of this dissertation/thesis represent my own unaided work, and that the dissertation/thesis has not previously been submitted for academic examination towards any qualification. Furthermore, it represents my own opinions and not necessarily those of the University.

Signed __________________ Date _________________

ABSTRACT

Tourism in the Middle East has garnered little attention of the researchers over the years. Needless to say, this particular industry is of great consequence in strengthening the national economy. Many people now feel the area as an ideal opportunity to spend their vacations. The research aims to conduct an in-depth SWOT analysis of the industry. Secondary data has been utilized for the discussion. The study will prove to be of great consequence to the people associated with the industry and the government in regulating their tourism policies.

Contents

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTII

DECLARATIONIII

ABSTRACTIV

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION1

Study Background1

The Problem1

Research Questions1

Significance of the Study2

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW3

What is tourism?3

Different types of tourism3

Cultural Tourism4

Adventure Tourism4

Gastronomic Tourism5

Literary Tourism5

Ecotourism5

Characteristics of the tourism industry5

Inflexibility5

Inventory6

Inconsistency6

Intangibility6

Inseparability7

Fixed location7

Challenges faced by Tourism Industry7

CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY9

Mixed Research9

Research Design9

Literature Search10

Instrument for data collection10

Data analysis11

Sample size11

Sample technique11

CHAPTER 4: ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION12

History12

Government policies to promote tourism12

Working Policy12

SWOT analysis13

Modern day challenges13

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION14

REFERENCES15

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

Study Background

Tourism sector is a significant sector for economy of Middle East. People travel to Middle East for various reason. Middle East is a country of raw and unique beauty and people enjoy visiting Middle East. Middle East is full of ancient and beautiful monument to attract visitors. (Buck 2011 124)

The Problem

Even though, it is a prolific business opportunity, the government still has a long way to go in promoting tourism. The challenges and issues that threaten the growth of the industry will be discussed in detail. Also, suggestive measures will be given as to how the industry could be strengthened and sustained revenue generated. (Fawzy 2002 250)

Research Questions

This research aims to answer the following question

What are the government policies to promote tourism in Middle East?

What are the economic impacts of tourism on Middle East?

What are the challenges faced by the government in promoting tourism in Middle East?

What steps can be taken to overcome these challenges?

How the tourism sector can be promoted in Middle East?

Significance of the Study

This study is extremely significant as through this study new doors would be opened for future research on tourism. The Ministry of Tourism can take a lead and reflect upon the challenges that it faces, and at the same time aim to rectify things and take measures for further expansion and improvement.

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

What is tourism?

There are mainly six definitions of tourism found from academic resources like journal article and textbooks. In all these definitions, the pros and cons of tourism are discussed in detail. The six definitions are discussed below. According to Leiper (1979) the aspects of leisure time behavior ...