Sociocultural Impacts of Tourism on the Local Community in Petra, Jordan

Abstract

This study aims at identifying and evaluating the perceptions and attitudes of the Petraians towards tourism in Jordan. The sample in this study was chosen randomly to be more representative of as many as possible of the aspects that needed to be explored in order to complement the work that has already been done in this particular area. Both descriptive and analytical data results were interpreted to attain the findings about the perceptions of the Petraians of the sociocultural impacts of tourism on their community. It was found that attitudes varied according to people’s level of dependency on tourism and certain demographic variables. It was also found that less educated people have a more positive perception of tourism than those who are more highly educated. Data analysis supports the evidence that there are positive sociocultural impacts of tourism on the Petraians. It can also be said that, benefits of tourism in Petra, far exceed its negative consequences.