The level of services and facilities in tourist sites for people with disabilities (accessible tourism) in Najran region

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the degree of services and facilities at tourist sites for individuals with disabilities (accessible tourism) in Najran region, as well as the disparities based on gender, type of disability, and nature of the visit. Methods: Following the survey approach, the descriptive method was employed to fulfill the study's goal. The researchers' study technique (an electronic questionnaire) was employed. After validating its validity and dependability in the Saudi context, it was reduced to (14) elements. It was applied to a sample of (111) male and female volunteers with impairments (sight, hearing, and motor). A stratified random sample was drawn from Najran area of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Results: The results revealed that the level of services and facilities in tourist sites for individuals with disabilities (accessible tourism) was poor in Najran region. According to the answers of the study sample members, there are statistically significant differences in the level of services and facilities in tourist sites for people with disabilities (accessible tourism) in Najran region due to the type of disability variable in favor of visual disability and hearing disability. Furthermore, differences in the nature of the visit arose in favor of the nature of the visit with the center, although no statistically significant differences showed on the variable of gender. The study recommended that the authorities responsible for the tourism sector and tourism industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia adopt an organized and thoughtful strategic plan. The plan must work to make the services and facilities of accessible tourism of high quality by following effective methods to stimulate the accessible tourism movement in a way that meets the Kingdom’s ambitions and vision 2030.