Cultural and Heritage Tourism in the Middle East and North Africa: Complexities, Management and Practices

This book provides a comprehensive account of cultural and heritage tourism in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, highlighting the complexities that heritage sites and tourist attractions face. The region is rich in heritage, but it is also contested and threatened by terrorism, making sustainable tourism development a challenge. It is of interest to heritage managers, policy makers, and academics who seek to balance tourism development with the needs of communities and tourists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is a rich tapestry of cultural and heritage sites that have captivated the world for centuries. From the ancient ruins of Egypt to the towering mountains of Morocco, this region is home to some of the most iconic landmarks on the planet. However, the MENA region faces numerous challenges in managing its heritage resources, including overuse, neglect, and the threat of terrorism.

One of the primary challenges facing heritage sites in the MENA region is overuse. As tourism booms, many of these sites are subjected to excessive visitation, leading to damage, erosion, and the loss of cultural significance. This can have a devastating impact on the local communities that rely on these sites for their livelihood, as well as on the heritage itself.

Another challenge is neglect. Many cultural sites in the MENA region are in poor condition, as a result of lack of funding, inadequate maintenance, and political instability. This can lead to the degradation of these sites and the loss of valuable cultural heritage.

The threat of terrorism is also a major concern for heritage sites in the MENA region. Terrorist groups have targeted cultural sites in the past, causing damage, destruction, and loss of life. This can have a devastating impact on the tourism industry, as well as on the local communities that rely on tourism for their livelihood.

To address these challenges, there are several steps that can be taken. One of the most important is to increase funding for heritage management and conservation. This can include providing resources for maintenance, restoration, and preservation of cultural sites, as well as training programs for local communities to help them manage and protect their heritage resources.

Another important step is to promote sustainable tourism development. This can include promoting responsible tourism practices, such as low-impact tourism, that minimize the negative impact on cultural sites and the local communities. It can also include providing education and training programs for tourists to help them understand the cultural and historical significance of the sites they visit.

In addition, it is important to work towards promoting cultural diversity and tolerance in the MENA region. This can include promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding, as well as promoting the protection and preservation of minority cultures and languages.

Finally, it is important to recognize the role that technology can play in managing and promoting heritage sites in the MENA region. This can include using digital technologies to create virtual tours and interactive exhibits, as well as using social media to promote awareness and engagement with cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the MENA region is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is of immense value to the world. However, the region faces numerous challenges in managing and promoting its heritage resources. By increasing funding, promoting sustainable tourism development, promoting cultural diversity and tolerance, and using technology, we can help to ensure that this valuable heritage is preserved for future generations.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367547141