Residents' Perceptions Towards Tourism and its Impacts on their Quality of Life in Aqaba City

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the resident's perceptions of economic, socio-cultural, and aim environmental tourism impacts in Aqaba city and how they affect their quality of life. A quantitative survey based on random sample was conducted in Aqaba. 295 questionnaires were completed by 300 respondents approached; representing a 98.3% response rate for this survey. The descriptive statistic analysis was used based on a five-point Likert scale. It was found that residents have higher positive perceptions towards economic and socio-cultural impacts of tourism in Aqaba as they agreed that tourism increases employment opportunities, improves the local economy, promotes cultural exchange and fosters tourists' awareness. On the other hand, residents' quality of life is influenced negatively as tourism increases prices of land and increases local residents' cost of living. It is also found that tourism has contributed towards problems of traffic congestion and overcrowding of people. Marital status, education, and employment were found to be the main demographic variables affecting the residents' perceptions towards tourism impacts. Finally, the recommendations section discusses some implications for local community and sustainable tourism