The Impact of Tourist Influx on the Quality of Life of Local Resident in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This research explores the impact of tourist influx on the quality of life (QoL) of local residents in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on the social, economic, environmental, and psychological dimensions of this relationship. The study is grounded in the context of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which positions tourism as a key driver of economic diversification and national development. While tourism offers opportunities for growth, it also raises concerns regarding social equity, environmental sustainability, and cultural transformation particularly in high- density religious tourism destinations like Mecca. The study adopts a quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional research design to address these gaps. Primary data will be collected via a structured electronic survey distributed to a random sample of residents from both urban and rural areas across Saudi Arabia. Secondary data from governmental and academic sources will supplement this analysis. The methodology is supported by Social Exchange Theory and the Bottom-Up Spillover Model, enabling a theoretical framework to assess the perceived benefits and costs of tourism on local populations.