Public Perceptions of the NEOM Project: Analysing Tabuk Residents Attitudes

Abstract

This dissertation explores the perspectives of Tabuk residents on the NEOM project, a major development initiative in Saudi Arabia. It aims to understand local views on the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental impacts of NEOM, using established tourism theories as a foundation. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating local perspectives in tourism development to ensure equitable benefit distribution and environmental sustainability. The literature review provides a theoretical basis by examining existing research on tourism impacts and community attitudes, and it discusses NEOM's emergence as a transformative urban project aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Methodologically, the dissertation adopts a quantitative approach, detailing data collection methods and ethical considerations. The findings reveal that while residents generally perceive the NEOM project as beneficial for economic development and social advancement, there are significant concerns about environmental sustainability and the extent of community involvement in decision-making. Recommendations highlight the need for inclusive governance and sustainable practices in destination development, contributing to a deeper understanding of the relationship between large-scale projects, community perceptions, and sustainable tourism outcomes.