The reality of tourism for people with disabilities (accessible tourism) in Najran region, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Purpose: This research identifies the reality of accessible tourism—traveling to places that are welcoming to individuals with disabilities. Additionally, variations in the respondents' responses were examined in relation to the factors of gender, kind of impairment, and the purpose of the visit.   Methods: To accomplish the objective of the study, the descriptive approach using a survey method was utilized. The research team created a "electronic questionnaire" for the study, which included sixteen items split over three domains: promotion, access, and reception. It was applied to a group of (106) male and female volunteers who had mild visual, mild hearing, and mild movement impairments. The stratified random method was used to choose the sample from the area of Najran in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.   Results: The results demonstrated that, from the perspective of the study sample, the reality of tourism for individuals with disabilities (accessible tourism) in Najran region was at a low level. The promotion and reception domains placed second and third consecutively at low levels, while the domain of access to tourist destinations came out on top at a medium level. According to the replies of the survey sample, statistically significant disparities were also discovered in the reality of accessible tourism for individuals with disabilities in Najran region, favoring visual and hearing impairments. In addition, there were differences because of the variable nature of the visit in favor of the nature of the visit with the center; however, no statistically significant variations showed up regarding the variable gender.   Implications and values: In order to promote accessible tourism, the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage in Najran region and the various community institutions need to exert more efforts to support and promote this kind of tourism.