SACM - United Kingdom
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://drepo.sdl.edu.sa/handle/20.500.14154/9667
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Item Restricted RELIGIOUS TOURISM IN MECCA FROM A STRATEGIC PERSPECTIVE(Saudi Digital Library, 2023-11-26) Alaklabi, Abdulaziz; Ladkin, AdeleReligious tourism is vital in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, as millions of pilgrims visit the city annually for spiritual fulfilment and religious rituals. This dissertation investigates the significance of Mecca as a pilgrimage destination, its economic impact, employment opportunities, cultural preservation, and the overall pilgrimage experiences of participants. The study adopts a cross-sectional survey design, collecting data from 31 participants who have visited Mecca for religious purposes. The findings reveal that Mecca holds profound spiritual and cultural significance for pilgrims, providing transformative and spiritually fulfilling experiences. The unanimous agreement among participants highlights the positive economic impact of religious tourism on the regional economy and employment opportunities. The influx of pilgrims generates demand for various services and industries, contributing to job creation and economic growth. Participants believe Mecca's customs and cultural heritage have survived the influx of pilgrims, emphasizing the city's commitment to cultural preservation. Furthermore, pilgrims overwhelmingly recommend others to visit Mecca, reflecting the spiritually rewarding nature of the pilgrimage. Strategic recommendations for stakeholders managing religious tourism in Mecca are provided, including promoting sustainable development, preserving cultural heritage, enhancing infrastructure, creating employment opportunities, and ensuring the safety of pilgrims. The study's limitations include restricted sample size and potential response biases, impacting the generalizability of findings. Future research could explore the environmental impact, social implications, and technological interventions in religious tourism. A longitudinal study could also assess changes in pilgrims' perceptions over time. In conclusion, religious tourism in Mecca is a key driver of economic activity, cultural preservation, and spiritual enrichment. By embracing strategic recommendations and continuous research, Mecca can sustain its significance as a sacred pilgrimage site while fostering economic development and cultural preservation for future generations.25 0