An Investigating the Role of Cultural Heritage Sites and Natural in Sustainable Tourism Enhancement: A case study in Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

an exploration of the factors that encourage the utilisation and marketing of cultural sites and natural places in AlUla as a case study. The study details the history of the region and considers how the development of, and comparisons with, tourism in neighbouring countries and internationally. The findings of this case study are embodied in the design of a comprehensive tourist map, which creates an Al-Ula heritage trail, scheduled over three days, encompassing cultural and natural sites, and involves the participation of the local community. This is achieved with sensitivity to environmental concerns, by considering measures to protect the ecology of the area and the local population. The research findings conclude that Al-Ula is considered a rich store of cultural and natural sites, which lends the city and adjacent sites of historical importance to become a competitive selling point destination in tourism heritage markets globally.