English abstract
This study aims to uncover trends towards tourism development in Masirah Island;
one of the local communities in Oman, which is experiencing touristic activity but
has not yet experienced tourism development that makes it a competitive
destination. The study sought to address one of the social aspects of tourism
development by identifying trends by knowing the vision of the Ministry of
Tourism and its plans on tourism development in Masirah Island. It analyzed the
local residents' attitudes towards tourism development, and identifying the
challenges they may face, and the mechanisms that help to address them.
The study was based on the descriptive and analytical approach. Three research
tools were used to collect data. First, analysis of the electronic executive summary
of Oman Tourism Strategy 2016-2020 to know the share of Masirah Island of
tourism plans and programs. Second, a questionnaire to collect data from the local
population. Third, an interview guide administered with official leadership in some
government departments on the Island of Masirah and with specialists in the
Ministry of Tourismة
The study has come out with several results, the most important of which is that
the Ministry of Tourism is determined to develop the tourism sector on Masirah
Island. It targets the Island in Oman Tourism Strategy Plans 2016-2040. The
Supreme Council for Planning seeks to develop the state through the structural
study of the plan of Masirah Island. The results indicated that there are positive
trends towards tourism development in Masirah Island. Local people have social
awareness of the importance of tourism development for the local community. In
addition, they have an awareness of the importance of respecting and accepting
tourists from different cultures. Among the challenges facing the development of
tourism in the Island of Masirah is the intense pressure on public services and
support for tourism activity and lack of tourism services. The study highlights a
set of mechanisms that might help in the development of tourism in the island of
Masirah. Most importantly: the establishment of the bridge linking Masirah /
Shnnah. There is also service, leisure facilities, and increasing hotel apartments
and resorts.
