Tourisem accomodation talal al harigi

A
PROJECT ACCEPTANCE
This Project has been accepted in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the Degree of Master of Urban and Regional
Planning in the College of Architecture and Planning, King Faisal
University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
Date:_____________________________
Instructors:
Dr. Mohammed H. Awad _____________________________
Prof. Akef M. Quazi. _____________________________

B
KING FAISAL UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND PLANNING
Project Examination Report
We have carefully read the report entitled TOURISTS
ACCOMMODATION PLANNING FOR DAMMAM
METROPOLITAN Submitted by Talal Abdullah Al-Harigi in partial
fulfillment of the requirements of the Degree of Master in Urban &
Regional Planning. We have also carried out report discussion on. We
recommend that this work be:
□ Accepted □ Completed □ Rejected
In support of this recommendation we present the following joining
statement of evaluation.
The work is of the standard required for a Master’s Project in Urban and
Regional Planning. It is well structured and presented in a clear and
logical manner. The objectives are clearly stated are based on a wide site
survey and information collected form different agencies. The
recommendations on ways to find solutions for TOURISTS
ACCOMMODATION PLANNING FOR DAMMAM
METROPOLITAN deserve the attention of all concerned government
and private agencies.
Project Examining Committee:
Name: Signature:
_________________________ _________________
_________________________ _________________
_________________________ _________________
_________________________ _________________

C
‫الرحيم‬ ‫الرحمن‬ ‫هللا‬ ‫بسم‬
‫إهداء‬
‫فيـها‬ ‫في‬ ‫كان‬ ً‫ا‬‫جرار‬ ‫إليه‬ ‫تهدي‬ ‫هدهـــدة‬ ‫البين‬ ‫يوم‬ ‫سليمان‬ ‫أتت‬
‫هديـها‬ُ‫م‬ ‫قدر‬ ‫على‬ ‫الـهدايا‬ ‫هدى‬ُ‫ت‬ ‫قائــــلة‬ ‫الحال‬ ‫بلسان‬ ‫فأنشدت‬
‫اإلنس‬ ‫إلى‬ ‫هدى‬ُ‫ي‬ ‫كان‬ ‫لو‬‫فيهـا‬ ‫ما‬ ‫و‬ ‫الدنـيا‬ ‫قيمتـك‬ ‫لــكان‬ ‫قيمته‬ ‫ان‬
‫يسـتديد‬ ‫مـن‬ ‫كل‬ ‫ليرتديه‬ ‫السطور‬ ‫من‬ ‫النسيج‬ ‫هذا‬ ‫نسج‬ ‫تم‬ ‫طويل‬ ‫عناء‬ ‫بعد‬
‫م‬ ‫ا‬ ‫و‬ ، ‫العييـي‬ ‫الوالـد‬ ‫إلى‬ ‫المتواضعة‬ ‫السطور‬ ‫و‬ ‫الكلمات‬ ‫هذه‬ ‫فأهدي‬ ، ‫منه‬
‫والعافية‬ ‫بالصحة‬ ‫هللا‬ ‫متعهم‬ ‫الحنون‬.‫ايـوتي‬ ‫إلـى‬ ‫العمـل‬ ‫هـذا‬ ‫أهدي‬ ‫كذلك‬
‫عيا‬ ‫ا‬‫بيننا‬ ‫الود‬ ‫هللا‬ ‫أدام‬ ‫ء‬.‫هـبرها‬ ‫رمـرة‬ ‫العييـية‬ ‫زوجتـي‬ ‫أهدي‬ ‫أن‬ ‫أنسى‬ ‫وال‬
‫المتواهل‬ ‫ودعمها‬.
‫وقـات‬ ‫ا‬ ‫أحلك‬ ‫في‬ ‫أزري‬ ‫من‬ ‫الشد‬ ‫و‬ ‫بمساعدتي‬ ‫قام‬ ‫من‬ ‫كل‬ ‫وإلى‬.ًً‫سـائ‬
‫العمـل‬ ‫هـذا‬ ‫إتمام‬ ‫في‬ ‫وفقت‬ ‫قد‬ ‫أكون‬ ‫أن‬ ‫جل‬ ‫و‬ ‫عي‬ ‫المولى‬.‫لكـن‬ ‫و‬(‫لكل‬
‫نقصان‬ ‫تم‬ ‫ما‬ ‫إذا‬ ‫شيء‬)‫وحده‬ ‫هلل‬ ‫الكمال‬ ‫و‬.
‫السًم‬ ‫و‬
‫المهندس‬:‫الحريقي‬ ‫هللا‬ ‫عبد‬ ‫طًل‬
61/61/99

D
In the name of Allah, the most Gracious,
the most Merciful.
Acknowledgement
Thanks to Allah the lord of the world for helping me in conducting
this project. I Would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Mohamed H
Awad and Prof. Akef M Quazi who devoted their time and efforts in
supporting and guiding my to the completion of this project.
Special thanks to my instructors from the department of Urban and
Regional Planning who taught me through my study in the post
graduate program.

E
Abstract
Dammam tourists attraction is increasing rapidly, and inviting tourists from
many regions for various purposes. Consequently, this increases the
load on the accommodation facilities. However, the accommodation
facilities are randomly distributed. For example, they are concentrated within
the urban areas of the metropolitan, which is about 50 Km apart from the
main attraction area.
This study aims to propose a suitable distribution plan for tourists
accommodation in Dammam Metropolitan area. The planning proposals
of the study were generated on the basis of the main attraction areas and the
tourist’s preferences. For the accomplishment of the study goal and objectives
the study investigated the existing accommodation facilities conditions. In
addition, a socio economic survey was conducted to explore tourists’
preferences and characteristics.
The study generated three alternatives for the distribution of tourists’
accommodation. They are as follow:
First Alternative adopts the existing trend concept to minimize the
implementation cost in which the concentration of tourists
accommodation will remain within the urban areas.
Second Alternative, is based on the concept of multi node
accommodation centers along the transportation network, which will
provide maximum mobility for tourists.
Third Alternative focuses on reducing tourist commuting between the
accommodation facilities and the attraction area, by locating the
accommodation facilities within the metropolitan attraction. As a result
a new Tourists City will be established within the main attraction area.
The result of alternative evaluation resulted in selecting the third alternative
as the best. Therefore, the tourists accommodation is distributed according
to the tourists preference. The implementation policy resulted in proposing

F
Higher Authority for Tourism Affairs in Al-Dammam metropolitan. The
authority will coordinate the city development and construction of the
infrastructure. Also, the implementation policy proposed a consortium
company to coordinate the construction and management of the new
accommodation facilities.

G
‫الدراسة‬ ‫ملخص‬
‫هاد‬ ‫الىاد‬ ‫طدب‬ ‫قا‬ ‫ىلدمن‬ ‫ددا‬ ‫هايممدا‬ ‫الاديال‬ ‫قباداا‬ ‫ازداد‬ ‫الدمما‬ ‫حاضرة‬ ‫جاذبية‬ ‫ازدياد‬ ‫مع‬
‫الايال‬ ‫مااكن‬.‫مبابدع‬ ‫بد‬ ‫التااهم‬ ‫من‬ ‫نبها‬ ‫سا‬ ‫دا‬ ‫هشبائي‬ ‫و‬ ‫سريع‬ ‫بشكل‬ ‫بالظممبر‬ ‫ىلخذت‬ ‫اليت‬ ‫و‬
‫الايال‬ ‫هلؤالء‬ ‫الرئياية‬ ‫اجلذب‬ ‫مناطق‬ ‫و‬ ‫الاائح‬ ‫سكن‬.‫مادا‬ ‫الادائح‬ ‫يقىع‬ ‫بذلك‬ ‫و‬‫هدن‬ ‫تقدل‬ ‫ال‬ ‫ة‬05
‫التنقدل‬ ‫جممدم‬ ‫و‬ ‫الاائح‬ ‫وبت‬ ‫ضياع‬ ‫قا‬ ‫تؤدي‬ ‫اليت‬ ‫و‬ ‫اجلذب‬ ‫مناطق‬ ‫و‬ ‫الاياحي‬ ‫الاكن‬ ‫ب‬ ‫مرت‬ ‫كياب‬
.
‫الةدمة‬ ‫ضةمةم‬ ‫اللةحةضر‬ ‫اللةيا‬ ‫ةك‬ ‫ا‬ ‫لق‬ ‫مبةسةتة‬ ‫ةة‬ ‫ة‬ ‫خ‬ ‫لقدةد‬ ‫الدراسةة‬ ‫هذه‬ ‫تهدف‬.
‫هما‬ ‫ركيزت‬ ‫ها‬ ‫المراسة‬ ‫هذ‬ ‫التخىيىية‬ ‫احلابا‬ ‫اهتممت‬:‫اجلذب‬ ‫مناطق‬ ‫مبابع‬، ‫لاايال‬ ‫األولية‬
‫الايال‬ ‫رغاات‬ ‫و‬.‫منىقدة‬ ‫الاديال‬ ‫ملاداكن‬ ‫الراهنة‬ ‫األوضاع‬ ‫حبث‬ ‫مت‬ ‫المراسة‬ ‫غايات‬ ‫و‬ ‫همف‬ ‫ولتحقيق‬
‫المراسة‬.‫الايال‬ ‫رغاات‬ ‫و‬ ‫ىلطاط‬ ‫ة‬ ‫ملعر‬ ‫ابتصادي‬ ‫اجتماهي‬ ‫ماح‬ ‫همل‬ ‫مت‬ ‫كذلك‬ ‫و‬.
‫منىقد‬ ‫الادياحي‬ ‫الادكن‬ ‫لتخىدي‬ ‫ةىيىيدة‬ ‫بدمائل‬ ‫ةدة‬ ‫ة‬ ‫ابدرتال‬ ‫مت‬ ‫األسدمت‬ ‫تادك‬ ‫ها‬ ‫و‬‫ة‬
‫كالتالي‬ ‫وهي‬ ،‫المراسة‬:
‫األول‬ ‫ل‬ ‫التد‬:‫احلضدرية‬ ‫املناطق‬ ‫ضمن‬ ‫الايال‬ ‫ملااكن‬ ‫احلالي‬ ‫الرتكيز‬ ‫االستمرار‬(‫الدمما‬–‫اخلد‬
–‫الظممران‬.)
‫ر‬ ‫ةة‬‫ة‬‫الا‬ ‫ل‬ ‫التةد‬:‫داكة‬‫د‬ ‫د‬‫د‬‫ها‬ ‫دياحي‬‫د‬‫الا‬ ‫دكن‬‫د‬‫الا‬ ‫دع‬‫د‬‫مباب‬ ‫دع‬‫د‬‫بتبزي‬ ‫املتعدمدة‬ ‫دز‬‫د‬‫املراك‬ ‫درة‬‫د‬‫ك‬ ‫د‬‫د‬‫ها‬ ‫دم‬‫د‬‫اهتم‬
‫ها‬ ‫يااهم‬ ‫سبف‬ ‫الذي‬ ‫و‬ ‫الرئياية‬ ‫ت‬ ‫املباص‬‫منداطق‬ ‫و‬ ‫اجلدذب‬ ‫منداطق‬ ‫بد‬ ‫التنقدل‬ ‫مروندة‬ ‫زيدادة‬
‫األخرمن‬ ‫املناطق‬ ‫و‬ ‫الاكن‬.
‫الاةلث‬ ‫ل‬ ‫التد‬:‫وضدع‬ ‫ا‬ ‫خد‬ ‫مدن‬ ‫األوليدة‬ ‫اجلدذب‬ ‫ىلمداكن‬ ‫و‬ ‫الايال‬ ‫سكن‬ ‫ب‬ ‫ة‬ ‫املاا‬ ‫تقايل‬ ‫ها‬ ‫ركز‬
‫األولية‬ ‫اجلذب‬ ‫مناطق‬ ‫الايال‬ ‫مااكن‬(‫الشباطئ‬)‫منىقدة‬ ‫سدياحية‬ ‫مميندة‬ ‫دكل‬ ‫هاد‬ ‫وذلدك‬ ،
‫األولية‬ ‫اجلذب‬.
‫ومن‬‫خيدار‬ ‫ضدل‬ ‫كأ‬ ‫الثالث‬ ‫الاميل‬ ‫اختار‬ ‫مت‬ ‫اخليارات‬ ‫تقييم‬.‫ملاداكن‬ ‫االحتيداا‬ ‫تبزيدع‬ ‫مت‬ ‫هايدمت‬ ‫وبنداءا‬
‫الايال‬ ‫رغاات‬ ‫مثل‬ ‫الذي‬ ‫االبتصادي‬ ‫االجتماهي‬ ‫املاح‬ ‫نتائج‬ ‫ها‬ ‫بناءا‬ ‫الايال‬.‫سياسدات‬ ‫وضدع‬ ‫مت‬ ‫كمدا‬
‫تقدب‬ ‫سدبف‬ ‫واليت‬ ‫المما‬ ‫حلاضرة‬ ‫لاياحة‬ ‫هايا‬ ‫هيئمت‬ ‫قنشاء‬ ‫تتاابر‬ ‫واليت‬ ‫اخلىة‬ ‫تنفيذ‬‫املميندة‬ ‫بدددارة‬
‫التحتية‬ ‫الانية‬ ‫وقنشاء‬ ‫اجلميمة‬.‫و‬ ‫بدنشداء‬ ‫تقدب‬ ‫ماداهمة‬ ‫دركة‬ ‫قنشداء‬ ‫التنفيذيدة‬ ‫الاياسة‬ ‫تقرتل‬ ‫وكذلك‬
‫الاكنية‬ ‫اخلممات‬ ‫قدارة‬.

H
Table of Contents
PROJECT ACCEPTANCE .............................................................. A
PROJECT EXAMINATION REPORT .............................................. B
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT.................................................................. D
ABSTRACT..................................................................................... E
‫اسة‬‫ر‬‫الد‬ ‫ملخص‬............................................................G
TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................. H
LIST OF TABLES............................................................................ K
LIST OF CHARTS...........................................................................M
LIST OF MAPS ...............................................................................O
CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY..............................1
1.1 INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................2
1.2 DEFINITION OF THE PROBLEM................................................................5
1.3 INITIAL DEFINITION OF GOALS AND OBJECTIVES......................................5
1.4 SCOPE OF THE STUDY ...........................................................................5
CHAPTER II LITERATURE REVIEW ..............................................8
2.1 DEFINITION OF TOURISM AND TOURISTS .................................................9
2.2 TOURISM IN THE KINGDOM AND GCC COUNTRIES .................................10
2.3 TOURISTS ACCOMMODATION...............................................................15
CHAPTER III: ANALYSIS OF TOURISTS ACCOMMODATION ...20
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................21
3.1 ROLE OF DAMMAM METROPOLITAN IN TOURISM....................................22
3.2 MAIN ATTRACTIONS OF DAMMAM METROPOLITAN.................................24
3.3 TOURISTS ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE STUDY AREA ...............................30
CHAPTER IV: TOURISTS SOCIO-ECONOMIC SURVEY.............72

I
4.1 INTRODUCTION...................................................................................73
4.2.1 THE QUESTIONNAIRE AND SURVEY METHODOLOGY ...........................73
4.3 TOURIST SOCIO ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS .....................................79
4.4 CHARACTER AND NATURE OF VISITORS................................................86
4.5 EXPENDITURE ....................................................................................90
4.6 TOURISTS PREFERENCE......................................................................96
CHAPTER V: POTENTIALS, CONSTRAINTS & FORECASTS ..102
5.1 SUMMARY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS..................................................103
5.1 POTENTIALS AND CONSTRAINTS ........................................................105
5.3 PLANNING PROBLEMS ......................................................................107
5.5 REDEFINITION OF THE PROBLEM:.......................................................109
5.6 REDEFINITION OF GOALS AND OBJECTIVES.........................................109
5.7 PROJECTION OF TOURIST FUTURE REQUIREMENTS .............................110
CHAPTER VI PLANNING PROPOSAL .......................................114
6.1 GENERATION OF ALTERNATIVES ........................................................115
6.2 ALTERNATIVE I: EXISTING TREND ......................................................116
6.3 ALTERNATIVE II: NODULE AGGLOMERATION .......................................120
6.4 ALTERNATIVE III: NEW TOURISTS CITY...............................................124
6.5 ALTERNATIVES EVALUATION AND SELECTION .....................................128
6.6 NEW TOURISTS CITY PLAN ...............................................................129
CHAPTER VII IMPLEMENTATION POLICIES ............................132
7.1 ADMINISTRATION OF THE TOURISTS CITY ...........................................133
7.3 IMPLEMENTATION POLICIES...............................................................135
APPENDICES..............................................................................141
APPENDIX I SOCIO-ECONOMIC QUESTIONNAIRE ........................................142
APPENDIX II: WORLD TOURISM ASSOCIATION HOTELS STANDARDS ...........146
RESEARCHER BIO-DATA..........................................................153

J
REFERENCES: ...........................................................................154

K
List of Tables
TABLE 3.1.1.1 POPULATION OF THE MAIN CITIES IN THE KINGDOM...............22
TABLE 3.3.1.1A HOTEL TYPES IN DAMMAM METROPOLITAN ........................30
TABLE 3.3.1.1B HOTELS BY TYPE IN THE STUDY AREA ................................31
TABLE 3.3.1.2 A. HOTELS IN THE KINGDOM 1406 - 1416 AH.......................33
TABLE 3.3.2.1B HOTELS IN THE KINGDOM 1406 - 1416 AH. .......................34
TABLE 3.3.1.2A HOTELS CAPACITY OF THE STUDY AREA BY LEVEL .............34
TABLE 3.3.1.2B HOTELS ROOM IN DAMMAM METROPOLITAN........................35
TABLE 3.3.1.3 A COST OF ROOM PER NIGHT, NOVEMBER 1998...................37
TABLE 3.3.1.3B COST OF HOTELS BY TYPE: .............................................38
TABLE 3.3.1.4A HOTELS OCCUPANCY 1415-1418 .....................................41
TABLE 3.3.1.4B HOTELS OCCUPANCY BY CLASS 1415 - 1418 AH. ..............42
TABLE 3.3.1.4C AVERAGE OCCUPANCY RATE ACCORDING TO CITY..............43
TABLE 3.3.1.5A TOURISTS NIGHT SPENT IN HOTELS IN THE STUDY AREA.....43
TABLE 3.3.1.5B TOURISTS NIGHTS IN THE STUDY AREA ..............................44
TABLE 3.3.1.5C TOURIST NIGHTS IN THE STUDY AREA BY HOTEL CLASS......45
TABLE 3.3.2.1 DISTRIBUTION OF FURNISHED APARTMENTS:........................46
TABLE 3.3.2.2 ESTIMATION OF NUMBER OF BEDS FOR THE FURNISHED
APARTMENTS:..........................................................................................53
TABLE 3.3.2.3 FURNISHED APARTMENT COST VARIATION - FEBRUARY, 199854
TABLE 3.3.2.4 APARTMENT OCCUPANCY VARIATION ..................................55
TABLE 3.3.2.5 ESTIMATION OF THE OCCUPANCY OF THE FURNISHED
APARTMENTS...........................................................................................56
TABLE 3.3.3.1 DISTRIBUTION OF RESORTS VILLAGES .................................57
TABLE 3.3.3.2 CAPACITY OF HOLIDAY VILLAGES........................................57
TABLE 3.3.3.3 OCCUPANCY OF AL-SHULA RESORT VILLAGE 1418-1419 H .58
TABLE: 3.3.5.2 SUMMARY OF TOURIST ACCOMMODATION OCCUPANCY........69
TABLE 4.2.2.1 HOTELS INCLUDED IN THE SURVEY ......................................75
TABLE 4.2.2.2 FURNISHED APARTMENTS INCLUDED IN THE STUDY ................76
TABLE 4.3.3.1 TOURIST FAMILY SIZE ........................................................83
TABLE 4.6.5.1 SUMMARY OF TOURISTS PREFERENCE...............................101

L
TABLE 5.1.1 SUMMARY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS ....................................104
TABLE 5.7.1.1 NUMBER OF BEDS OCCUPIED IN THE YEAR 1998..................110
TABLE 5.7.1.2 PROJECTION OF REQUIRED BEDS 1998-2030....................111
TABLE 5.7.2.1 LOCATION OF ACCOMMODATION .......................................112
TABLE 5.7.3.1 TYPES OF TOURISTS ACCOMMODATION ACCORDING TO
TOURISTS PREFERENCE .........................................................................112
TABLE 5.7.4.1 CATEGORIES OF TOURIST ACCOMMODATION ACCORDING TO
AFFORDABILITY......................................................................................113
TABLE 5.7.5.1 UNIT SIZE OF ACCOMMODATION ACCORDING TO TOURISTS
GROUP SIZE..........................................................................................113
TABLE 6.6.1 ACCOMMODATION REQUIREMENTS, COASTAL AREA ..............130
TABLE 7.6.2 ACCOMMODATION REQUIREMENTS, URBAN AREAS................131

M
List of Charts
CHART 1.1.1 THE RELATION BETWEEN TRAVELLING TIME AND NUMBER OF
TOURISTS (TIME-DISTANCE SENSITIVITY) .....................................................3
CHART 3.3.1.3A COST VARIATION IN 5 STAR HOTELS, NOV. 1998................38
CHART 3.3.1.3B COST VARIATION IN 4 STAR HOTELS NOV. 98.....................39
CHART 3.3.1.3D COST VARIATION OF 2 STAR HOTELS.................................40
CHART 3.3.1.4 AVERAGE HOTELS OCCUPANCY ACCORDING TO HOTEL
CLASS (1415-1418) ................................................................................42
CHART 3.3.2.4 APARTMENTS OCCUPANCY ................................................55
CHART 3.3.3.4B DAILY DISTRIBUTION OF UNITS OCCUPANCY.......................64
CHART 3.7.1.1 CONCENTRATION OF BEDS VS. LOCATIONS...........................67
CHART 4.3.1.1 VISITORS NATIONALITY.......................................................79
CHART 4.3.2.1 TOURISTS AGE..................................................................81
CHART 4.3.2.1 TOURISTS MARITAL STATUS ...............................................82
CHART 4.3.3.1 VISITORS FAMILY SIZE .......................................................82
CHART 4.3.6.1 VISITORS MONTHLY INCOME ...............................................85
4.4.1.1 ORIGIN OF TOURISTS ...................................................................86
CHART 4.4.2.1 DURATION OF STAYING......................................................87
CHART 4.4.3.1 FREQUENCY OF TOURISTS VISITS.......................................88
CHART 4.4.4.1 TOURISTS MODE OF TRANSPORTATION................................89
CHART 4.4.5.1 AREAS ASSOCIATED WITH THE VISIT TO THE STUDY AREA .....89
CHART 4.5.1.1 TOURISTS EXPENDITURE ON ACCOMMODATION PER DAY ......90
CHART 4.5.2.1 TOURISTS EXPENDITURE ON FOOD PER DAY.........................91
CHART 4.5.3.1 TOURISTS EXPENDITURE ON RECREATION ...........................92
CHART 4.5.4.1 EXPENDITURE ON SHOPPING ..............................................93
CHART 4.5.3.1 TOURISTS EXPENDITURE ON TRANSPORTATION ....................94
CHART 4.6.8.1 SUMMARY OF TOURISTS EXPENDITURE................................95
CHART 4.6.1.1 PREFERRED ACCOMMODATION TYPE...................................96
CHART 4.6.2 PREFERRED ACCOMMODATION LOCATION...............................97

N
CHART 4.6.3.1 PREFERRED VISITING TIME.................................................98
CHART 4.6.4.1 VISITORS PRIMARY ATTRACTIONS .......................................99

O
LIST OF MAPS
MAP 1.4.1 LOCATION OF THE STUDY AREA ..................................................7
MAP 3.2.4.1 DAMMAM METROPOLITAN ATTRACTION AREA .........................27
MAP 3.3.1.1 HOTELS DISTRIBUTION ..........................................................32
MAP 3.4.1.1 FURNISHED APARTMENTS DISTRIBUTION IN AL-DAMMAM CITY..48
MAP 3.4.1.1 FURNISHED APARTMENTS DISTRIBUTION IN AL-KHUBAR CITY ..49
MAP 4.5. SEPARATION OF ACCOMMODATION FROM ATTRACTION ...............108
MAP 6.2.1 ALTERNATIVE I: EXISTING TREND.......................................118
MAP 6.3.1 ALTERNATIVE II: NODULE AGGLOMERATION....................122
MAP 6.4.1 ALTERNATIVE III: NEW TOURISTS CITY ..............................126

1
CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY

2
1.1 Introduction
Tourism plays a major role in the economic development of many
countries. It is considered as one of the major sources of
circulating revenues between regions and a magnet for foreign
currency. In addition, tourism increase the demand for work force
for which stimulates many countries to provide more job
opportunities.
Tourists accommodation and tourists attraction are correlated and
depend on each other. Attraction provides the magnet for tourists
enjoyment, whereas accommodation provides the support facilities
for a pleasant stay. They both correlate negatively with length of
travelling time and distance.
Tourists are strict about the time they spent in commuting between
the accommodation and attractions. Al-Kittani emphasizes that, the
attractiveness of the recreational areas diminishes with the
increase of distance from the accommodation location1
.
The location of the accommodation must be suitable to serve the
needs of the intended tourism market and satisfy a number of
requirements.2
These requirements should consider certain key
factors in the location of the accommodation facility. The factors
determine the location of the accommodation facility are shown in
chart (1.1.1).
1
Al-Kittani M, P 58, 1990
2
Lawson F, P 105, 1998

3
Chart 1.1.1 The Relation between Travelling Time and Number of
Tourists (Time-Distance Sensitivity)3
Most of the accommodation facilities are concentrated within the
Cities of Al-Dammam and Al-Khubar, while main attraction are
located along the coasts. The traveling time between
accommodation and attraction about 30 minutes or more. This
situation diminishes the attractiveness of the main attraction, which
may result in reducing tourists visits to the attractions, and less
duration of stay which means less revenues.
In general the accommodation facilities in Al-Dammam
metropolitan did not consider factors related to main attraction. The
study will illustrate and show the concentration of tourists
accommodation within the metropolitan residential and commercial
areas. However, the high cost of accommodation available in the
main attraction forced the tourists to stay in Al-Dammam and Al-
Khubar city and commute to the attraction areas.
3
Al-Kittani M, P 59, 1990
2
3
4
5
6
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
80 160 240 320 400
Distance between Origin and Potential in Kilometers
CostbyUS$
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
%ofVISITORSFORMOrigin
Cities
Cost US $ % of the of tourists population

4
Tourists attraction and accommodations are equally important.
This is due to the fact that attractions provide the magnet that
motivates tourist to travel. While, accommodation provides the
comfort for the tourist to stay overnight in the area. Comfort tourist
increases the willingness of the tourists to stay longer near the
attraction and maximizes enjoyment of the visit. Furthermore, the
extent of attractiveness of the area motivates tourists to stay
longer, which increases the rate of occupancy of the
accommodations. Availability of accommodation within or around
the attraction strengthens the attractiveness of the area. This is
explained by decrease of willingness of the tourists to visit the
attraction as the distance from the tourists’ accommodation
increases. For example, tourists have the tendency to stay in the
nearest accommodation to their main attraction depending on the
quality, cost and size of the accommodation.
The importance of this study is that reflects the strong relation
between the attraction and accommodation, and the influence of
the improvement of accommodation facilities on the attractiveness
of the area. Furthermore, the increasing demand of tourism on
Dammam metropolitan is another factor to its importance.

0
1.2 Definition of the Problem
A planning problem appears in a form that accommodation
facilities are not spatially associated with tourist attractions.
Therefore, the study will focus on the spatial distribution of tourist
accommodation in Dammam metropolitan area.
1.3 Initial Definition of Goals and Objectives
The goal of this project is to propose a suitable distribution
plan for tourists accommodation in Dammam Metropolitan
area.
1.3.1 Objectives
 To ensure better distribution of accommodation facilities to
the main attraction potentials.
 To study tourists socio-economic characteristics and
accommodation preferences.
 To generate tourists accommodation plan that fulfils tourists
requirements, preferences and future demands.
1.4 Scope of the study
The study area will be limited to Dammam metropolitan, which is
composed of the three municipal areas of Al-Dammam, Al-Khubar
and Al-Dhahran. The study will be limited to the spatial planning
aspects of tourism accommodation in terms of; distribution,
capacities and relationship with tourists attraction. The analysis of
tourists socio-economic status will identify their characteristics,
accommodation preferences and habits. The planning proposal will

6
be guided by the analysis of the social, economic and
administrative factors.

7
Map 1.4.1 Location of the Study area

8
CHAPTER II Literature Review

9
2.1 Definition of Tourism and Tourists
The United Nations summit about tourism in Rome 1963 defined “a
tourist as a traveler staying temporarily for a period not less than
24 hours, far away from home for a period less than one
consecutive year, for the purpose of leisure, recreation, spending
vacation, treatment, religious, sport, family visits, business.
Tourism is “the activities of persons traveling to and staying in
places outside their usual environment for not more than one
consecutive year for leisure, business, and other purposes”4
.
2.1.1 Internal Tourism
Tourism takes many forms depending on the place of origin and
destination, time and the objective of the trip. Internal tourism
constitutes an essential part of the economy of many countries. In
the United States internal tourism represents 90% of American
Tourism Market5
. For the Kingdom, internal tourism is a means to
reduce the expediter outside the country. Also, internal tourism will
help in circulating the money between the regions within the
country. It has the benefit of diversifying the economic base of the
regions and cities. Internal tourism educates citizens about the
attractive areas of their country, and makes them proud of it.
4
World Tourism Organization Web Page, April 29, 1998
5
Archer, 1975 and 1978

15
2.2 Tourism in the Kingdom and GCC Countries
2.2.1 Tourism in the Kingdom
Saudi Arabia has a variety of tourist attractions compared to GCC
Countries. Diversification of primary attraction is clearly significant
over the approximate area of two million and quarter square
meters.
In1987 Al-Khudairy mentioned that, foreign tourism in the kingdom
represents minor significance of the Middle East market6
. In fact,
foreign tourists are not significant at all in Saudi Arabia excluding
Hajj and Omra tourists. Al-Khudairy refers this fact to the following
reasons7
:
1. Lack of clear strategies and plans regarding international
tourists due to low significance and priorities being given by the
government, such as, the restriction in issuing tourist VISA and
permissions.
2. Lack of marketing for tourism within the kingdom.
3. Lack of proper accommodation and tourism facilities.
4. Lack of accessibility to tourists attraction areas.
Retter refers the low significance of foreign tourists to the fact that
the country is not open yet for international tourists8
. Makie wrote
that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia doesn’t want or need
international tourists, and tourism should be kept for local
residence and expatriates9
. This point of view has some reality,
nevertheless, the country is open for GCC citizens and expatriates
6
Al-Khudairy A, P 12, 1987
7
Al-Khudairy A, P 14, 1987
8
Ritter, P, 25 , 1984
9
Makie, , 1984

11
and many GCC residents spend their holidays in the Kingdom, but
they do not constitute a significant number to support tourism
activities.
Meanwhile, tourism development is moving gradually becoming
tangible in the national level. There are some governmental
agencies that provide tourism facilities like municipalities. Yet,
there are no dedicated centralized governmental tourism agencies
that take care of developing and managing tourism on the national
level. In addition, contribution of the private sector in tourism
development is limited.
The government had invested in the recreational and leisure
facilities. The objective of which aims at satisfying the residence
needs for recreation rather than attraction for tourists. Except for
some development in Asir Region. Hunnicutt (1985) mentioned
that: “ the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recognized the importance of
recreational facilities and leisure time activities for health,
prosperity, education and lifestyle that they conduct. The
government uses these facilities for solving modernization and
urbanization problems, as well as, the different patterns of life in
work, population and families attitudes 10
”.
Some studies have been conducted for tourism in a wide range for
tourism potentials in the kingdom. Al-Amiri11
, talked about the
utilization of landforms around the city of Al-Riyadh for natural site
seeing and recreation. While, Abdullah12
, emphasized the needs
for recreational facilities in Jeddah. He pointed out certain
attraction sites which were developed afterward.
10
Hunnicutt, P 26, 1985
11
Al-Amiri, 1986
12
Abdullah, 1980

12
Some consultants conducted studies in certain areas in the
kingdom, such as, Al-Qassim Norconsult, 198413
, in which the
report studied the existing recreational facilities and leisure
facilities for residents and visitors, whether manmade or natural
potentials. Another consultant, Finnplanco, 198514
studied AI-Baha
region. They pointed out that tourism facilities are not available,
and that more development should be undertaken. In the Eastern
Province B.G. Consultants, 198515
, prepared a project study for
developing Auqair on the eastern coast, the project was based on:
 The efficient use and utilization of natural potentials.
 The provision cultural facilities
 Diversification of economic activities.
 Promotion of private sector contribution.
 Protection of natural environment.
AlKhudhairy16
mentioned that tourists villages and resorts should
be the first step toward comprehensive tourism development in the
Kingdom regions. Al-Khudairy classified tourists in the Kingdom
into 6 different classes. They are as follows: Saudis, Moslem
expatriates, non-Moslem expatriates, Pilgrims, GCC residents and
other non-Moslem tourists.
The study area receives all 6 types of tourists. The study area
receives more GCC residents and non-Moslem expatriates, than
other areas in the Kingdom.
13
Al-Thaqafy S P. 65, 1996
14
Al-Thaqafy S, P. 54, 1996
15
Al-Thaqafy S, P. 74, 1996
16
Al-Khudairy A, 1987

13
2.2.2 Tourism in GCC Countries
Due to the high living standards, many GCC residents used to
travel long distances to their destinations. The area is considered
as an exporter of international tourism. Despite the fact that many
of them face many problems like communication, reduction of
currency purchasing power, and lack of security. They are highly
welcomed in western countries as they spend a lot of money.17
However, the number of the GCC tourists in the western countries
declined in the last years. This explains why many Gulf tourists
turned back searching for tourism inside their countries.
Ritter18
classified GCC area into three patterns of regional tourism
according to their tourism potentials. The first region includes
Kuwait, northern part of the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia. This
region is composed of desert flat areas. It has low potentials for
tourism in aesthetic factors, the coastal side, and desert side. In
fact Ritter did not recognize or appreciate the three months of
spring seasons of this area, I which the region witnesses extensive
tourism attractions for its desert areas. There are famous non-
official areas used for camping in which Saudis used to spend
weeks, such as Nuyrea, Safanya and Al-Srar. The second region,
is different and separated. It is composed of Al-Bahrain, Salwa Bay
and Qatif. The potentials of this region are: attractive coastal sides,
sandy duns, natural oasis, bay and warm springs. Ritter
overlooked other potentials in this region: like Qatif oasis,
Dammam metropolitan coastal areas, and Al-Hasa historical sites,
17
Al-Thaqafy, S. 1996 P. 52
18
Ritter, 1980

14
mountains, springs and oasis - which are located in the Kingdom,
there are many historical, natural, cultural and aesthetic potentials
that can make the area one of the main attraction areas. The third
region covers UAE and northern Oman, Ritter considered this
region as the main tourism attraction region in GCC. This region
has natural attractions of mountains, desert coasts and many
aesthetic sites.
In conclusion, Ritter defined tourism potential regions in the GCC
as: coastal areas, desert areas, coastal cliffs and oasis. In addition,
the warm winter season makes the regions attract winter tourists.
The facilities that are available within the regions contribute in
strengthening their attractiveness, such as hotels, furnished
apartments, coastal resorts, and sea activities. He assumed that
there are many leisure and recreation activities in GCC, however,
not enough to be considered as tourism activities. The local
tourism tendency is clearly significant but is not organized19
.
19
Al-Thaqafy, S, P. 62-68, 1996

10
2.3 Tourists Accommodation
Accommodation provided for tourists falls into two main categories.
First, these which are common to all types of hotels and furnished
apartments, they are usually located within urban areas. Second,
those which are identified with particular localities. They use the
attraction of the site and surroundings for more specific pursuits in
recreation or panoramic views, such as; the mountain, rural or
seaside resorts.
In terms of investment, accommodation represents the most
expensive service in tourism development. A 10 % saving in the
cost of hotel accommodation may be, for example, equal to the
total investment needed for recreation, sport and cultural
facilities20
. A detailed survey of accommodation requirements and
trends is therefore, essential in the initial stages of accommodation
planning.
2.3.1 Main Categories of Accommodation
Types of accommodation and the range of services they offer
should be continuously changing according to market needs.
Tourists accommodation facilities may include the following
categories:
Hotels: provide accommodation, meals and refreshments, for
irregular periods of time and do not necessarily need reservations.
In practice, hotels may be under contract to accommodate specific
groups (for example tour operators, airline crew). This type of
accommodation is available in Dammam Metropolitan in different
classes.
20
Lawson and Baud, P 24, 1977

16
Motels: Are specifically located and planned to provide convenient
accommodation21
. Meals, if provided, are generally operated on an
independent basis. While motels have evolved to serve transient
needs, many of the lodges and motor hotels located in resort areas
provide extensive facilities, including self-catering for the holiday
maker. Motels started to appear in the market in the last 5 years by
SASCO (company operating petrol stations, restaurants,
supermarkets, and accommodation along the main transportation
highways). They are available along Dammam - Riyadh highway
and Riyadh - Qassim Highway.
Camping Sites: Caravan sites are equipped with sanitary
services, drainage and site works and may include restaurants or
cafeteria, vehicle service stations, shops, indoor and outdoor
recreation facilities and other features22
. There are no official sites
in Saudi Arabia identified for camping. Camping is one of the
public activities many Saudis used to do in winter and spring
seasons. Campers use their resources in providing the
infrastructure such as tents, portable electricity generators, water
tanks and other amenities23
.
Resorts villages: Are essentially multiple units of accommodation,
individually grouped around catering and recreational facilities24
.
The units provide self-catering as an alternative to inclusive meals,
and are designed mainly for family or individual use. Some resort
villages are built for social tourism, as commercial developments.
21
World Tourism Organization, Frequently Asked Questions, http://www.world-
tourism.org/faq/faq.htm, 24/4/98 6:09 p.m.
22
Lawson and Baud, P. 36, 1977
23
The researcher Observations 1998.
24

17
They may be developed by phases. They are usually distinct from
holiday resorts. Resorts villages usually provide around 500 to
1500 beds. This type of accommodation is available along the
coastal line of the study area. Like Al-Shoulla Al-Nakhile tourists
Village along the Halfmoon Bay in Dammam Metropolitan.
Individual housing units in resort areas include villas,
bungalows, chalets and houses. In each case the accommodation
may be used as the main or second (holiday) home of the owner.
These units are leased on short or long term basis to tourist
agencies or managed as a condominium. This type of
accommodation is not widely used in Saudi Arabia. However,
Tourists Villages provide similar way of accommodation by selling
some of their units and renting the units for the benefit of the
owners if they want.
Condominiums (Furnished Apartments) are groupings of flats
which are individually owned but share common facilities
(elevators, building engineering services, etc.) and communal
areas (entrance, staircases, landings). Responsibilities for
maintenance and security are also collective and these and other
services - including leasing to vacationers - may be carried out by
management associations or agencies25
. This type of
accommodation emerged, as did the tourism market of Saudi
Arabia in the last two decades. Furnished apartments has become
one of the main competitive accommodations for the hotels in the
Kingdom. It is available in the study area in different capacities,
sizes and prices.
25

18
2.3.2 Relation of Tourists Accommodation and Attraction
Tourists accommodation and tourists attraction are correlated and
dependent on one another. Attraction provides the magnet for
tourists enjoyment and accommodation provides the support in
facilities for tourists comfort.
In tourism, there are three elements that affect tourist attraction
and enjoyments. These elements are tourism attraction, tourism
facilities and additional elements. First, Tourism attraction is
defined as those element and/or amenities which are magnetic in
nature, for tourists and tourism functions. Such elements can be
natural (like general environment, landscape, coasts ... etc.) or
man-made (settlements, folklore, monuments, culture). The
primary existence of these elements is not for the purpose of
tourism, however, they can be utilized to form certain tourism
attraction26
.
Second, tourism facilities are defined as those elements that are
provided to assist and increase the potentiality of certain attraction
element or site. Tourism facilities are man-made, and they can be
an attraction by themselves or with other elements. They are
always promoted for tourists who stay for more than one day, in
which they have different functions of the usual facilities for city
residence. They differ in scale, seasonal character, location,
prices, timing and nature. Such facilities are tangible for tourists,
interms of interaction and association. They have a spending
nature and are associated with non-residence time spending. The
26
Dietvorst, Adri, , P 87-92 1993

19
main element of which is accommodation, then recreation,
shopping, sports and so forth27
.
Finally, Additional elements are those which do not attract visitors
to a specific location, but they are more or less necessary
conditions for pleasant visit and thus for the function of tourism,
like (accessibility, security, parking lots, information offices,
guidebooks ... etc.) 28
.
The next chapter will show the existing conditions of tourism in the
study area, It will be divided into two main parts. The first will
discuss the main attractions of Dammam Metropolitan, the second,
will discuss the accommodation facilities in the study area.
27
Dietvorst, Adri, , P. 96-110, 1993
28
Dietvorst, Adri, P. 112-123, 1993

25
CHAPTER III: Analysis of Tourists Accommodation

21
Introduction
This chapter discusses the existing conditions of the study area
that are collected from primary and secondary resources. The
purpose of the discussion is to analyze the existing conditions of
tourist accommodation of the study area. The chapter is divided
into 5 sections. Each section deals with one type of
accommodation that has a direct impact on tourist’s
accommodation.
The first section discusses the role of the study area as a tourism
attraction. In addition, it will point out the main potential of touristic
attraction in the study area. The second section introduces the
basic information about hotel accommodation in the study area. It
indicates the distribution, capacity, occupancy and the cost of the
hotels. The third section provides information about furnished
apartments, in terms of location, capacity, occupancy and cost.
The fourth section will discuss tourist villages in terms of the
distribution, capacity, occupancy and cost variation. The last
section will show some facts about camping as a type of tourist
accommodation.

22
3.1 Role of Dammam Metropolitan in Tourism
3.1.1 Introduction
Dammam metropolitan is defined in the sixth development plan as
a touristic attraction area, as well as, one of the areas that is
recently opened to international tourists. Dammam metropolitan is
not an old city. It is a new urban area established to support oil
industry. However, in a very short period it has become one of the
main cities in the kingdom. In addition, it has become one of the
attraction areas to tourists from the kingdom and nearby countries.
The following paragraphs illustrate some facts about the study
area.
After unification of the Kingdom and specially the discovery of the
oil, some movement started between cites and regions. In
particular, Dammam Metropolitan became an attraction city for
employment and investments. The operation of oil production and
export helped the area to prosper dramatically. The Metropolitan
has become the third largest city in the Kingdom with a population
size of more than 1.2 million. See table 3.1.1.1
Table 3.1.1.1 Population of the Main Cities in the Kingdom
City Population, 199229
Estimated, 199930
Percentage
Al-Riyadh 2,800,000 3,514,473 17%
Jeddah 2,000,000 2,510,338 12%
Al-Dammam 1,200,000 1,506,203 7%
Makkah 966,000 1,212,493 6%
Al-Madinah 600,000 753,101 4%
Al-Hassa 458,000 574,867 3%
Al-Taife 416,000 522,150 2%
All the Kingdom 16,929,294 21,249,127 50%
29
The Annual census, 1993, The estimation of 1992
30
Estimated by the researcher based on 3.3% growth rate

23
Dammam Metropolitan is the capital of the Eastern Province
Region. It acts as the administrative center as well as the
commercial and trade center. It is the gate for the kingdom on the
Arabian Gulf. It plays the role of Frontier City to the Gulf Consult
Countries. It is connected with them by the International Airport,
Causeway and Highways.
Visitors some time come the area for business with the
governmental agencies. Other than that, many visitors come for
the companies that are located in the metropolitan. The
metropolitan area has a hot and humid summer, it reaches more
than 40 degree centigrade in July, August and September. The
cold weather commences in December and the coldest months are
January and February. This variation in temperature provides a
potential for different types of tourists31
.
31
Al-Masoud M, P52, 1991
DhahranStationTemperature
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
Max
Jan
Min.Max
Feb
Min.Max
Mar
Min.Max
Apr
Min.Max
May
Min.Max
Jun
Min.Max
Jul
Min.Max
Aug
Min.Max
Sept
Min.Max
Oct
Min.Max
Nov
Min.Max
Dec.
Min.

24
3.2 Main Attractions of Dammam Metropolitan
There are many attractions for tourists within the study area, which
will be discussed, in the next paragraphs.
3.2.1 Coastal Areas
Halfmoon Bay is located on the south of Dammam City with an
approximate distance of 40 Km. The coast is expanding on a
length of almost 45 Km. The coast constitutes of shallow water
with coastal sand. The inland area constitutes of sand dunes and
Sabkhah. The area is served by Dhahran municipality, which
provides limited type of amenity basically for picnicking areas,
grading the sand, sun shelters with electricity, children play
grounds, toilets and water tanks.
Some development activities have been established along some
areas of the coast, which can be classified into different types
according to their ownership. Private developments, which are
limited to the owners themselves only. Governmental agencies like
ARAMCO, KFU, KFUPM and Naval Base use large portions of the
beach. Other agencies are providing access to the beaches to the
public by membership or fees like King Fahad Coastal City, which
occupies an area of one hectare, other private developments, like
Amusement Parks: such as Al-Hukair and prince Mohammed
Amusement Park. Resorts Villages: like Gulf Village, Al-Nakhel
Beach and Al-Shola Tourists Village.

20
3.2.2 Urban Areas
Dammam City is the administrative capital of the Eastern Province.
The majority of the governmental agencies are located there, like
the Emarah, the Amanah and all the agencies of Ministries. In
addition, Dammam City is the largest market for whole sales and
heavy equipment in the region. Commercial activities are available
with very wide range of varieties, simply it represents a trade
center for the region. It has many educational institutions and
universities, like King Faisal University, General Administration
Institute, and the Girls Colleges.
Dammam City has a beautiful Cornishe along the gulf coast. It has
many sport and recreational areas where many activities take
place. Like modern toy towns, sport clubs, King Fahad Regional
Park, amusement Parks, restaurants, hotels and shopping malls.
Al-Khubar is located south to Al-Dammam. It is connected to Al-
Dammam by three highways with lengths that vary between 13-17
Km. Al-Khubar is the second largest city in the metropolitan. It is a
compact city with grid streets network.
Al-Khubar has a different type of shipping facilities that vary
between traditional market and modern shopping malls. Traditional
markets are located in the center of the city like King Khalid street
and Al-Swaket (Prince Bandare) Street. In addition, there is
another traditional market in Al-Thuqbah. It has approximately 8
shopping malls, which vary between fairly large malls like Al-
Rashid Mall and small like Al-Khubar Plaza. The general character
of Al-Khubar is shopping facilities and recreational activities.
Al-Dhahran lies between Al-Dammam and Al-Khubar. It consists of
five areas Aramco; Al-Doha and Al-Danah; and King Fahad

26
University and the old Dhahran international Airport. Aramco
attracts many business visitors to the area and it is one of the main
attractions for business visitors. Al-Dhahran International Airport is
the third largest airport in the Kingdom. Al-Doha and Al-Danah are
the newest residential areas. The three cities constitute the
metropolitan which are very well equipped to attract tourists and
visitors.
3.2.3 The Cornishe
The Cornishe is a very large and important project, which
transformed the seafront of there metropolitan to a recreational
and an entertainment place. Dammam sector extends to 27 km in
length and has a 60 meter wide asphalt road and sidewalks.
Massive rocks and concrete blocks protect this route from coastal
erosion. The sector extends form end of Dammam – Al-Khubar
coastal road to east of Sayhat town. This route is landscaped and
has many recreational areas. In addition, there is a small seaport
for fishermen and boat owners32
.
Al-Khubar Sector is about 13 km long and 60 meters wide. It is
designed in the form of a 30 meters street placed about 30 meters
from the sea to allow side walk and liner recreational areas along
the shoreline. The area contains green surface, car parking lots,
sitting areas, and picnic area and children playgrounds.
32
Farsi Maps, Eastern Province, Dammam- Al-Khubar – Al-Qatife, first edition p43

27
Map 3.2.4.1 Dammam Metropolitan Attraction Area

28
3.2.4 Infrastructure Elements
The study area has different elements that assist its main
attraction. It has different transportation modes with international
connectivity. The government undertook many projects that
improved the transportation system of the study area like King
Fahad International Airport, the Railway Station and international
Bus Station.
The new King Fahad International airport is located at 36 km north
west of Dammam City. The airport started its operation in the last
week of November in 1999. It is expected to become the gate of
the kingdom and a meeting point for the eastern and western
passengers. The airport is designed to have a capacity of 5 million
passengers per year, but only 3 million passengers will be served
in the first operational stage. There will be two commercial
passenger terminals, one for SAUDIA and the other for foreign
airlines 33.
The railway station was constructed in 1951. The railway is 571 km
long between Dammam and Al-Riyadh. In 1985 a new line was
completed to reduce the distance between the cities. The number
of railway passengers increased from 105,380 in 1970 to 275,450
in 198034.
The main Bus Station is located in Al-Dammam City and has a
branch in Al-Khubar City. It is connected to the main cities in the
Kingdom, as well as to international distention with GCC and some
Arab countries like Jordan and Syria.
33
Al-Iktisad magazine, November/ December Issue number 321
34
Transport Magazine, Second issue, November 1998 p. 46

29
Map 3.2.4.2 Dammam Metropolitan Transportation Network

35
3.3 Tourists Accommodations in the Study Area
The various attractions that have been discussed earlier invite
tourists to travel to the study area, for recreation and business. Al-
Dammam metropolitan offers various types of accommodation for
its visitors such as hotels, furnished apartments and resort villages.
The following paragraphs will analyze those different types of
accommodation.
3.3.1 Hotel Accommodation
In Dammam metropolitan area, there are 29 hotels. These hotels
vary in type, location, cost and capacity, which affect the
occupancy rate.
3.3.1.1 Hotel Types
The Ministry of Commerce defines types of the hotels by ranking
each hotel according to certain criteria. These criteria are mainly
international standards, like World Tourism Organization Standard
(see appendix 1). See table (3.3.1.1a).
Table 3.3.1.1a Hotel Types in Dammam Metropolitan35
# Hotels Name Stars
1 Al-Gosaibi 5
2 Dammam Oberoi (Sheraton) 5
3 Dhahran International 5
4 Meridian Al-Khaleej 5
Total Four 5 STAR Hotels
5 Carlton Al-Moaibed 4A
6 Dhahran Palace Ramada 4A
7 Al-Hamra 4B
8 Al-Muntazza 4B
9 Al-Nimran 4B
10 Al-Uraifi 4B
35
Ministry of Commerce, Dammam Branch, 1998 unpublished statistics

31
Total Six 4 STAR Hotels
11 Al-Badia 3A
12 Al-Bustan 3A
13 Al-Al-Al-Al-Al-Al-Dammam 3A
14 Al-Hamad 3A
15 Al-Iqpal 3A
16 Al-Khubar Palace 3A
17 Royal Al-Nasr 3A
18 Safari Al-Dana 3A
19 Al-Khayam 3B
20 Al-Qadsia 3B
21 Al-Salaam 3B
22 Safari Al-Khaleej 3B
23 Safari Al-Khobar 3B
24 Zahrt Al-Khaleej 3B
Total Fourteen 3 STAR Hotels
25 Al-Fadhly 2A
26 Al-Harmain 2A
27 Al-Manara 2A
28 Al-Jabir 2B
29 Al-Thuqbah 2B
Total Five 2 STAR Hotels
The study area contains all the different types of hotels. They are
distributed as follows: Al-Dammam city has 12 hotels, Al-Khubar
city has 15 hotels and Al-Dhahran city has 2 hotels. While, The
coastal side (Half Moon Bay and Al-Aziziah beach) of the study
area does not have any hotels (see table 3.3.1.1b).
Table 3.3.1.1b Hotels by type in the Study area36
Type 5 4 stars 3 stars 2 stars
City Star A B A B A B Total
Al-Dammam 1 1 2 2 3 2 1 12
Al-Khubar 2 - 2 6 3 1 1 15
Al-Dhahran 1 1 - - - - - 2
Total 4 2 4 8 6 3 2 29
*
One 5 star hotel under construction in Al-Khubar .
36
Ministry of Commerce, Dammam December 1998

32
Map 3.3.1.1 Hotel Distribution

33
3.3.1.2 Hotel Capacity
Either the number of beds or the number of rooms indicates the
capacity of hotels. The data that the researcher could obtain
indicated hotel capacity by number of rooms. An international ratio
defined by Fred Lawson states, that “The ratio of beds: hotel
rooms range is 1:93 , in developing tourist areas” 37
. He mentioned
that in 1990, there were 1,131,200 rooms in hotels and similar
establishment worldwide. The number of rooms increased by
30.4% in the past ten years from 198138
. In Saudi Arabia, there are
308 hotels with the capacity of 27,557 rooms (See table 3.3.1.2a).
Eastern province is the third in hotels capacity in the Kingdom.
Furthermore, The study area constitutes 11.25% of the hotels
rooms in the Kingdom See table 3.3.1.2 a and b.
Table 3.3.1.2 a. Hotels in the Kingdom 1406 - 1416 AH39
.
Region Number of Hotels Number of Rooms
Riyadh 57 6128
Makka 101 11374
Maddina 17 2214
Qassim 8 467
Eastern Province 51 4140
Asire 23 1212
Tabouk 13 476
Hail 2 130
Northern Province 10 296
Jizan 6 343
Najran 8 322
Baha 6 265
Jwf 6 190
Total 308 27,557
37
Fred Lawson, P 3, 1998
38
Fred Lawson P 4, 1998
39
Ministry of Planning, Statistical yearbook thirty second Issue, 1996 Al-Riyadh.

34
Table 3.3.1.2b Hotels in the Kingdom 1406 - 1416 AH40
.
Class 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars
Year No. Rooms No. Rooms No. Rooms No. Rooms Total
1406 15 3807 44 7622 102 7689 84 3011 22129
1408 19 4809 49 7897 99 7183 81 2727 22616
1410 20 4933 51 7994 108 7325 83 2567 22819
1412 20 4882 56 8354 111 6992 81 2574 22802
1414 22 5646 56 8621 121 7969 81 2640 25013
1416 26 7118 65 9388 130 8328 80 2586 27557
The increase of hotel rooms in the Kingdom is almost 20% over
ten years (1406 - 1416 AH). This shows that Saudi hotel growth is
less than the International by 10%. The growth rate of hotel rooms
is 22.2%. The study area contains 3101 rooms with average beds
of 3334. Rooms are distributed in Dammam (1576 ), Al-Khubar
(1576 ) and Al-Dhahran ( 376 ). (See table 3.3.1.2c)
Table 3.3.1.2c Hotels Capacity of the Study Area by level
# Hotels Name Star Capacity / Room
1 Al-Gosaibi 5 340
2 Meridian Al-Khaleej 5 327
3 Dammam Oberoi 5 277
4 Dhahran International 5 191
5 Carlton Al-Moaibed 4A 211
6 Dhahran Palace Ramada 4A 185
7 AL-Muntazah 4B 200
8 Al-Hamra 4B 120
9 Al-Uraifi 4B 80
10 Al-Nimran 4B 80
11 Al-Al-Dammam 3A 126
12 Royal Al-Nasar 3A 98
13 Al-Hamad 3A 96
14 Safari Al-Khaleej 3A 86
15 Al-Badia 3A 83
16 Safari Al-Dana 3A 63
17 Al-Bustan 3A 56
18 Al-Iqpal 3A 48
19 Al-Khubar Palace 3A 43
20 Al-Qadsia 3B 80
21 Zahrat Al-Khaleej 3B 60
40
Ministry of Planning, 1996 Al-Riyadh

30
22 Safari Al-Khubar 3B 45
23 Al-Salaam 3B 36
24 Al-Khayam 3B 36
25 Al-Harmain 2A 38
26 Al-Manara 2A 28
27 Al-Fudhaly 2A 13
28 Al-Jabber 2B 24
29 Al-Thuqbah 2B 21
TOTAL
The table below indicates that the carrying capacity of the study
area’s hotels is 3334 beds per day (see table 3.3.1.2d).
Table 3.3.1.2d Hotels room in Dammam metropolitan
City Number of rooms Number of beds Percentage
Al-Dammam 1149 1235 37
Al-Khubar 1576 1695 51
Al-Dhahran 376 404 12
Total 3101 3334 100
Capacity of hotels is higher in the high category hotels than in the
lower category hotels. As five star hotels are larger than the next
level and so forth. The chart below indicates that the highest bed
capacity in the study area is in the 5 star hotels. The next are
three star hotels, then 4 star hotels
Chart 3.3.1.2 Hotel Capacity in the study area

36
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
BedRoom
5 stars 4 stars 3 stars 2 stars
Hotels Category
Hotels Capacity
Number of rooms Number of beds

37
3.3.1.3 Hotel Cost Variation:
The cost of Double bed room varies among hotels in the study
area. Dammam Oberoi (Now Sheraton) and Gulf Meridian are the
most expensive hotels. However, two star hotels are the cheapest,
for example Al-Manara and Al-Thuqbah hotel, as (50 – 55) SR is
the cost of double bed room, see table (3.3.1.3 a).
Table 3.3.1.3 a Cost of Room per Night, November 1998
# Hotels Name Type
Cost
Single Bed Room Double Bed Room
1 Al-Gosaibi 5 245 325
2 Dammam Oberoi 5 517 661
3 Meridian Al-Khaleej 5 575 650
4 Dhahran Int’l 5 598 460
Average 5 Stars Hotels 484 524
1 Dh. Palace Ramada 4A 225 175
2 Carlton Al-Moaibed 4A 400 518
3 Al-Araifi 4B 241 184
4 Al-Hambra 4B 287 373
5 Al-Muntazza 4B 287 402.5
6 Al-Nimran 4B 287 402.5
Average 4 Stars hotels 288 343
1 Al-Khubar Palace 3A 180 120
2 Al-Iqpal 3A 90 140
3 Safari Al-Dana 3A 80 140
4 Al-Bustan 3A 140 180
5 Royal Al-Nasr 3A 110 180
6 Al-Al-Al-Dammam 3A 155 210
7 Al-Badia 3A 160 260
8 Al-Khayam 3B 95 115
9 Safari Al-Khubar 3B 80 120
10 Al-Qadsia 3B 100 120
11 Al-Salaam 3B 100 120
12 Zahrt Al-Khaleej 3B 100 120
13 Al-Qadsia 3B 100 120
14 Al-Salaam 3B 100 120
1 Al-Fadhly 2A 60 85
2 Al-Manara 2A 55 80
3 Al-Harmain 2A 60 85
4 Al-Thuqbah 2B 50 60
5 Al-Jabber 2B 100 83

38
As in any area, 5 star hotels in Dammam Metropolitan are the most
expensive, and the cost drops as we go towards lower star hotel,
(see table 3.3.1.3b).
Table 3.3.1.3b Cost of Hotels by Type:
Hotel level Double bed room SR. Single bed room SR.
5 Stars 524 484
4 Stars 343 288
3 Stars 343 114
2 stars 148 65
The following chart indicates that cost of hotel accommodation
depends on two main variables. First, the type of quality they
provide. Second, is the location of the hotel. For example Meridian
Al-Khaleej is located in Al-Khubar and adjacent to the Cornish with
very high quality, however, Al-Gosaibi which is not fare is cheaper
by 20%.
Moreover, Dammam Oberoi (Newly Sheraton) is cheaper than the
Meridian although it provides the same quality service. That
indicates the influence of the location on the cost (see chart
3.3.1.3a).
Chart 3.3.1.3a Cost Variation in 5 Star Hotels, Nov. 1998
The following chart indicates that 4 star hotels vary in the cost
depending on location. Hotels in Al-Khubar are more expensive
672
747
598598
250
350
450
550
650
750
Al-Gosaibi KH Meridian Al-Khaleej KH Dammam Oberoi DA Dhahran International
DH
SRPerDubleBedRoom

39
than those in Al-Dammam. In addition, the quality of the hotels has
a great impact, which reflects the cost on the Carlton, as well as its
location in the middle along Al-Khubar- Al-Dammam Highway.
Dhahran Palace suffers because of its location within Al-Dhahran
without any attraction potentials (see chart 3.3.1.3b).
Chart 3.3.1.3b Cost Variation in 4 Star Hotels Nov. 98
Location does not have much impact in the 3 star hotels like 5 and
4 star. Their cost is divided into 2 categories. First category ranges
between 115 and 140 and the second ranges between 180 and
210 SR. The first category is ranked as quality “B” and located
within the city center, the second category is the “A” quality and is
located on the edges of the city center along major streets.
Chart 3.3.6.3c Cost Variation of 3 Star Hotels
85
60
83 80
85
50
60
70
80
90
Al-Thuqba Al-Fadhly Al-Harmain Al-Jabir Al-Manara
SRPerDoubleBedRoom
184
175
518
403 403
373
1 0 0
2 0 0
3 0 0
4 0 0
5 0 0
Dh. Palac e
DH
Al -Uraifi DA Al -Hamra
DA
Carlton
DA
Al -Muntaz a
KH
Al -Nimran
KH
SRPerDoubleBedRoom

45
Location does not have an impact in the 2 star hotels like others.
They are located within centers of Al-Dammam, Al-Khubar and Al-
Thuqbah, within the secondary streets of the center (see chart
3.3.1.3d).
Chart 3.3.1.3d Cost Variation of 2 Star Hotels.
140
120120120
180 180
120 115 120
140
200
210
100
125
150
175
200
225
Al- Bust an Raoyal Al- Nasr Al- I qbal Kh Palace Saf ar i Kh. Al- Q adsia Al- Salam K Al- Khayam Za. Al- Khaleej Al- Dana Al- Dam m am Al- Badia
SRPerDoubleBedRoom
DAMMAMAL-KHUBAR

41
3.3.1.4 Hotel Occupancy
Hotel occupancy indicates the utilization of the hotel rooms over a
year. It can be calculated according to the following formula
[ Number of utilized rooms per year / (Hotel Capacity X 365) X100.
The following figures indicate the occupancy rate of the
metropolitan hotels for the period from 1415-1418 H, according to
the Ministry of Commerce Dammam Branch (See Table 3.3.1.4a).
Table 3.3.1.4a Hotels Occupancy 1415-141841
Hotels Name Type OCCUPANCY %
1415 1416 1417 1418
1 Al-Gosaibi 5 29 35 31 38
2 Meridian Al-Khaleej 5 73 72 70 73
3 Dammam Oberoi 5 50 41 40 49
4 Dhahran Int’l 5 80 55 60 72
5 Carlton Al-Moaibed 4A 34 25 32 39
6 Dh Palace Ramada 4A 11 15 12 21
7 Al-Nimran 4B 48 38 46 57
8 Al-Muntazza 4B 36 28 39 49
9 Al-Araifi 4B 25 34 20 20
10 Al-Hambra 4B 57 37 41 49
11 Al-Badia 3A 52 56 36 63
12 Al-Khubar Palace 3A 48 61 46 87
13 Al-Iqpal 3A 45 44 37 41
14 Royal Al-Nasar 3A 23 19 16 22
15 Al-Hamad 3A 48 33 33 38
16 Al-Bustan 3A 32 38 38 51
17 Al-Al-Al-Dammam 3A 57 30 32 31
18 Safari Al-Dana 3A 77 34 33 40
19 Al-Salaam 3B 53 26 24 30
20 Al-Qadsia 3B 34 29 25 35
21 Safari Al-Khubar 3B 23 28 35 49
22 Safari Al-Khaleej 3B 20 25 29 31
23 Al-Khayam 3B 58 51 44 35
24 Zahrt Al-Khaleej 3B 23 24 30 41
25 Al-Fadhly 2A 10 2 5 9
26 Al-Harmain 2A 45 25 40 39
27 Al-Manara 2A 77 60 46 61
28 Al-Thuqbah 2B 90 62 69 62
29 Al-Jabber 2B 82 83 74 80
AVERAGE 46 38 37 45
41
Ministry of Commerce, Dammam Department, 1998

42
The average hotel occupancy rate for hotels of the study area
varies between 45% and 39% from 1415 – 1418, the average
occupancy dropped by 6% (See table 3.3.1.4b).
Table 3.3.1.4b Hotels occupancy by class 1415 - 1418 AH.
Hotels
Class
1415 1416 1417 1418 Average
5 Stars 55% 50% 49% 56% 52.5%
4 Stars 33% 27% 31% 39% 32.5%
3 Stars 42% 34% 31% 40% 36.75%
2 Stars 63% 48% 49% 53% 53.25%
Average 45% 34% 39% 47% 42.5%
In 1415 and 1418 hotels showed the highest occupancy. The
average occupancy of the four consecutive years is 42.5%. 5 star
hotels and 2 star hotels registered the highest occupancy rate by
52.5% and 53.25% respectively. While, 3 star and 4 star hotels
were less than the average. In 1418, hotel occupancy registered
an increase of 8% in 4 star hotels and 9% in 3 star hotels (See
chart 3.3.1.4).
Chart 3.3.1.4 Average Hotel Occupancy According to Hotel Class
(1415-1418)
As the occupancy rate of hotels varies according to class, it also
varies according to the location (See table 3.3.1.4c). Al-Khubar has
the highest average occupancy rate 44.25%, then Al-Dhahran
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
55%
Occupancy
Rate
5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars

43
41.25% and the lowest is Al-Dammam by 39.25%. Al-Khubar has
the highest occupancy rate due to its larger capacity than Al-
Dammam and Al-Dhahran. That indicates the potentiality of Al-
Khubar to attract more tourists. On the other hand, despite the fact
that, Al-Dhahran has higher occupancy than Al-Dammam, it has
much less tourist than Al-Dammam (See Chart 3.3.1.4c).
Table 3.3.1.4c Average Occupancy rate according to City
City 1415 1416 1417 1418 Average
Al-Al-Dammam 46% 35% 35% 41% 39.25%
Al-Khubar 44% 42% 41% 50% 44.25%
Al-Dhahran 46% 35% 37% 47% 41.25%
Total 45% 39% 39% 46% 42.25%
3.3.1.5 Tourist Nights
Tourist nights mean the number of nights a tourists spends in a
hotel. For example if a certain tourist family spent 10 nights in a
hotel and have been accommodated in two rooms, they will be
accounted for having spent 20 tourist nights. Saudis spend
30,000,000 tourists nights per year outside the Kingdom42
See
table (3.3.1.5a).
Table 3.3.1.5a Tourists Night Spent in Hotels in the Study Area
Hotels Name Class
Tourist
Nights 1415
Tourist
Nights 1416
Tourist
Nights 1417
Tourist
Nights 1418
1 Al-Gosaibi 5 35,704 43,770 38,161 47,046
2 Meridian Al-Khaleej 5 87,451 85,613 83,823 87,344
3 Dammam Oberoi 5 50,492 41,261 40,159 49,117
4 Dhahran International 5 56,093 38,246 42,045 50,251
5 Carlton Al-Moaibed 4A 26,085 19,023 24,383 30,382
6 Dh Palace Ramada 4A 7,603 9,859 8,218 14,342
7 Al-Nimran 4B 15,696 12,407 14,953 18,836
8 Al-Muntazza 4B 25,915 20,601 28,769 36,120
9 Al-Araifi 4B 7,385 9,881 5,802 5,907
10 Al-Hambra 4B 24,953 16,259 18,138 21,304
42
Al-Ektsad, Issue No. 303; June, 1998, p. 32
44%
45%
e
HotelsOccupancyAccordingtoLocation

44
11 Al-Badia 3A 15,629 16,865 10,943 19,080
12 Al-Khubar Palace 3A 7,571 9,558 7,268 13,606
13 Al-Iqpal 3A 7,812 7,737 6,509 7,178
14 Royal Al-Nasr 3A 8,116 6,786 5,662 7,759
15 Al-Hamad 3A 16,781 11,717 11,437 13,312
16 Al-Bustan 3A 6,559 7,822 7,665 10,471
17 Al-Al-Al-Al-Al-Dammam 3A 26,242 13,825 14,643 14,459
18 Safari Al-Dana 3A 17,600 7,903 7,549 9,269
19 Al-Salaam 3B 7,022 3,477 3,127 3,942
20 Al-Qadsia 3B 10,065 8,322 7,268 10,124
21 Safari Al-Khubar 3B 3,735 4,556 5,754 8,078
22 Safari Al-Khaleej 3B 6,130 7,775 9,169 9,759
23 Al-Khayam 3B 7,633 6,672 5,774 4,553
24 Zahrt Al-Khaleej 3B 5,079 5,306 6,563 8,880
25 Al-Fadhly 2A 477 95 248 442
26 Al-Harmain 2A 6,260 3,497 5,513 5,448
27 Al-Manara 2A 7,902 6,180 4,658 6,247
28 Al-Thuqba 2B 6,899 4,730 5,289 4,771
29 Al-Jabir 2B 7,141 7,301 6,511 6,985
TOTAL 512,030 437,144 436,001 525,012
AVERAGE 17656 15074 15035 18104
The study area reached a half million tourists nights in 1415 and
1418. The average tourists nights in the study area are 477,522
per year. The full capacity of Dammam metropolitan is 1,131,865
tourist nights per year. That means around half of the capacity has
been accomplished.
Table 3.3.1.5b Tourists Nights in the Study area
City 1415 1416 1417 1418 Average
Al-Khubar 255,433 244,057 236,876 288,108 256,118
Al-Al-Dammam 192,902 144,884 148,863 172,311 164,740
Al-Dhahran 63,696 48,104 50,263 64,593 56,664
Total 512,030 437,045 436,002 525,012 477,522
Al-Khubar had the highest tourists nights. It exceeded 54% of the
total tourists nights in the study area. Saudis spend 9 tourists
nights out side the Kingdom43
. The average visitors of the hotels is
almost 53.05% tourists during the period of (1415 - 1418 AH).
43
Al-Ektsad, Issue No. 303; June, 1998, p. 32

40
Growth in tourist nights in the study area increased by 0.63% from
1415 - 1418 AH. One of the factors affecting the trend of tourist
nights and keeping it almost steady, might be the increase of
furnished apartments. As the number of tourists increases, the
number of furnished apartment increases which absorbs the
increase of the tourists demand on accommodation in the study
area see table (3.3.1.5c).
Table 3.3.1.5c Tourist Nights in the Study Area by Hotel Class
Hotel Class 1415 1416 1417 1418 Average
5 Stars 229,740 208,890 204,188 233,758 219,144
4 Stars 107,637 88,029 100,263 126,893 105,706
3 Stars 145,975 118,323 109,332 140,470 128,525
2 Stars 21,679 21,803 22,220 23,892 22,398
Total 505,031 437,045 436,003 525,013 475,773

46
3.3.2 Furnished Apartments
3.3.2.1 Furnished apartments type and distribution:
There are 130 furnished apartments in the study area. They are
concentrated on Al-Dammam and Al-Khubar. Almost 49% of them
located in Al-Dammam and 51% located in Al-Khubar respectively
see table (3.3.2.1).
Table 3.3.2.1 Distribution of Furnished Apartments44
:
City Number of apartments %
Al-Dammam 64 49
Al-Khubar 66 51
Total 130 100
Furnished apartments are located within the cities in any area that
has multi-story buildings. They do not follow a consistent trend as
most of them were built to be regular residential apartments.
Generally, they tend to be located near the Cornishe, urban center,
along main streets, CBD periphery areas or secondary centers.
Moreover, the apartments main concentration is on the CBD and
Cornishe or Dammam and Al-Khubar, and major concentration on
the secondary center of Al-Khubar, which is Al-Thuqbah. Through
the researcher inquiries about these apartments from
Municipalities and Ministry of Commerce branch in Dammam, they
declared that they have a limited obligation and authority on these
apartments. Every one claims that it falls within the jurisdiction of
the other. This situation shows that there are no regulations or
rules to monitor or control the quality and conduct of such
businesses.
44
Ministry of Commerce, Dammam Department, September 1998

47
There are no classifications or types for the furnished apartments.
Some of the apartments show high standard of amenity and
service like Park Plaza in Al-Khubar and Janadriah Suites. They do
not have a definite name as some call them suites, apartments,
rooms or guest-houses. During the time of the study a Ministerial
Decision, number 969, dated in 27/7/1419 H, announced the
organizational laws and regulations for the furnished apartments.

48
Map 3.4.1.1 Furnished Apartments Distribution in Al-Dammam City

49
Map 3.4.1.1 Furnished Apartments Distribution in Al-Khubar City

05
3.3.2.2 New Furnished Apartments Regulation
The regulations were published on the local newspapers from the
Ministry of Commerce. The following is the translations done by
the researcher for the Arabic text45
.
 This law is for any furnished residential unit provided for
accommodation on rental basis for one night or more. Minimum
number of units should be 5 with their utilities (one room or
more, Dinning room, Kitchen and Toilet as minimum).
 This regulation will be implemented on the first of Muharam
1420 H. All owners of furnished apartments should rectify their
situation before the end of Thul Hujja 1419 H. Those who are
not compliant with the new regulation should finish their
activities within 6 months.
 The furnished apartments will be classified into three
categories, which are first, second and third. Each will be
categorized according to the Ministry of Commerce evaluation.
 The maximum cost will be defined by the Ministry of Commerce
according to their category, the ministry will also, define them
increase percentage in the high seasons costs.
 The evaluation will be based on four main factors. The total
evaluation points will be 120 points divided as follows;
45
Translated by the Researcher form Ministerial Decision number 969 dated 27/7/1419AH, for
the Organizational Laws and Regulations for Furnished Apartments Units, Ministry of Commerce, Al-
Dammam Brach.

01
 The building condition, including the interior and exterior.
36 Points
 The accommodation size and furniture condition. 36 Points
 Service and Facilities. 24 Points
 Administration. 24 Points
Each category will have a minimum limit of the total points which
are as follows:
 The first category, a minimum 120 points,
 The second category 80 – 120 points,
 The third category should have a minimum of 60 points.
 Each unit will be categorized on the basis of the accumulative
points obtained, every 2 years inspectors will re-evaluate the
units and categorize them again.
 All units management should comply with the ministry of
commerce rules and regulations, as well as the other
governmental agencies, specially the following:
 Subscription in the network system with security
authorities, and only Saudis should work on the system.
 Registration of the visitors should be only from their legal
documents.

02
 Denying any guest without legal documents or any female
or non adult without escort (Muharam).
 Separating the families units form the bachelors units.
 Provision of local, national and international telephone
service.
 24 hour receptionist should be available and securing
entrance and exits at night.
 Provision of extra duplicate of all the unit keys to be used
by the manager in the event of emergencies.
 All employees should have health certificates, and should
follow the appropriate measures for food preparation.
These rules and regulations provide and important base in
having information about furnished apartments. The ministry of
commerce will monitor and impose the quality assurance on the
furnished apartments. The regulations will force the furnished
apartments to follow tariff index according to the apartment
quality rank.

03
3.3.2.2 Apartment Capacity
The problem of the lack of management and control for the
furnished apartments yields to lack of any information about them.
The researcher relied on physical check and telephone
conversation with apartment receptionists to estimate their
capacity. The average number of apartments is estimated by the
researcher to be 17.3 apartments per Building. They vary from
one bedroom to two, and three bedroom apartments. On that
basis, there are around 2249 units46
that can accommodate 2249
families. For the purpose of the study, we will assume the number
of units for the (1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom) is the
same which is one third of total number of units see (table 3.3.2.2).
Table 3.3.2.2 Estimation of Number of beds for the Furnished
apartments:
Type of Units 33.3347 %
No. of rooms No. of beds1 : 9348
One bedroom 749.7 750 806
Two bedroom 749.7 1499 1612
Three bedroom 749.7 2249 2418
Total 2249 4498 4836
Out of the previous table, we conclude by defining the capacity of
furnished apartments as 4836 bed per day, which can serve 4836
tourists a day.
46 Estimated by the researcher.
47 Assumption of that each divides into 3 types apartment (1B, 2B, 3B) with 33.33% each.
48 Ratio of bed to room Clawson, F., Hotels and Resorts, 1998.

04
3.3.2.3 Furnished Apartments Cost Variation
Different from hotels, apartments do not have any regulations in
terms of costs. The cost of a furnished apartment varies in the
study area between 86 SR to more than 583 SR according to the
unit size, location, the quality of service, luxury of the apartments
and the season see table (3.3.2.3).
Table 3.3.2.3 Furnished Apartment Cost variation - February, 1998
Location 1 BD 2 BD 3 BD Average
Al-Dammam 159 178 182 173
Al-Khubar 211 279 583 360
Al-Thuqbah 86 130 140 119
Average 152 196 302 217
The above table shows that the average cost for a furnished
apartment in the study area in the low season is 217 SR. While
the cost increases to 360 SR in Al-Khubar and drops to 119 SR in
Al-Thuqbah, middle in Al-Dammam. The reason behind the
variation appears to be the location. For example, Al-Khubar is
recognized as a modern city, also it is near the coastal areas from
Al-Dammam. The other reason is that Al-Khubar has better quality
apartments than the other two areas.
3.3.2.4 Apartment Occupancy
The lack of information extends to the identification of apartments
occupancy. In this case, the researcher relied on estimation and
experienced judgement. Throughout the survey and interviews
with the furnished apartment personnel, they defined occupancy
interms of many features. First, full occupancy in high seasons
(the two Eids). Second, 50% to 70% occupancy in the weekends.

00
Third 20% to 30% in weekdays. Finally, 25% of the occupancy
utilized by long stay residence see table (3.3.2.4)
Table 3.3.2.4 Apartment Occupancy Variation
Eid Holidays Weekends Week days Long Stay Gusts
Occupancy 100% 60% 30% 25%
Tourists 100% 35% 5% -
Chart 3.3.2.4 Apartments Occupancy
38%
39%
40%
41%
42%
43%
44%
OccupancyRate
Al-Dammam Al-Khubar Al-Dhahran

06
Table 3.3.2.5 Estimation of the occupancy of the furnished
apartments
Eid
Holidays
Weekends Weekdays
Long Stay
Gusts
Total
Unit Occupancy/
day
2,249 1,349 675 562 4,835
Bed Occupancy/
Day
4,836 2,902 1,451 1,209 10,397
Seasons Days 14 120 231 351
Touristic Nights 31,486 161,928 155,856 197,350 546,619
# of Utilized Beds 67,704 348,192 335,135 424,359 1,175,390
The above table indicates that tourist nights reached 546,619 in
the furnished apartments. This figure is almost the same as in
hotels. That figure indicates the important role that apartments play
in providing tourist accommodation in the study area.

07
3.3.3 Resort Villages
3.3.3.1 Distribution
Most of the holiday villages are concentrated along the coastal
line. The main two concentration areas are Half Moon bay and Al-
Aziziah beach. The following table shows the distribution of the
Villages, see table (3.3.3.1).
Table 3.3.3.1 Distribution of Resorts Villages
Location Number Capacity/ Bed Percentage
Half Moon 6 800 68 %
Aziziah 2 212 18 %
Al-Dammam 2 160 14 %
Total 10 1172 100 %
3.3.3.2 Capacity of Resorts Villages
The villages vary in their size, capacity as well as the quality they
provide. The following table shows the capacity and type of units in
some of the villages. Some ideal examples on resort development
are Gulf Village and Al-Nakhel Beach see table (3.3.3.2).
Table 3.3.3.2 Capacity of Holiday Villages
Resort Single B Duplex Triplex Total
Sun Rise 16 36 52
Sun Set 30 35 35 100
Al-Khalij 251
Al-Shula 80 56 145 150
Al-Nakhel 200
Al-Tarfeeh 30 30 60
Total number of units 813
Gulf Village occupies an area of 4 hectares, and is Located to the
south west of Al-Khubar city within a distance of almost 45 Km. its
location over looks the gulf from three sides (crescent shape). The
village has 251 furnished units with seafront. The capacity varies
between 1-5 bedrooms. The prices per day for the units are as

08
follows: SR 850 for one bed room, SR 3600 for 2 bed rooms, SR
5400 for the large units of 4 -5 rooms in two story units. The village
has most of the basic facilities for the visitors like supermarket
laundry, gas station, fire station, recreation center, gymnasium,
and restaurant…. etc49
.
Al-Nakhel Beach constitutes of 200 units.50
Shams Company for
Tourism Projects constructed the resort. Which include a club,
restaurants, commercial areas and a multi purpose Hall, as well as
a gymnasium, swimming pool and other facilities. The cost of the
project is estimated to be SR 60 million51
.
3.3.3.3 Occupancy of Resorts Villages
The only resort village that provided the researcher with
information was Al-Shula resort village; Hence, the information
provided will be utilized to give indicators for the occupancy of the
resort village.
Table 3.3.3.3 Occupancy of Al-Shula Resort Village 1418-1419 H52
Months Thulhija Muhram Safar Rabi I Rabi II Jumad I Jumad II Rajab Total
# Visitors 280 119 125 287 378 270 243 218 1920
Tourist
nights
840 357 375 861 1134 810 729 654 5760
Occupancy 15% 6% 7% 15% 20% 14% 13% 11% 13%
49
Al-Hajry, F, 1998, P 417
50
Department of Planning, MOMRA, 1998 Unpublished Report.
51
Al-Hajry, F1998,P 418
52
The Researcher Investigation according to Al-Shula resort Village reception Book November
1998.

09
Map 3.3.3. Distribution of Resorts Villages

65
3.3.3.4 Analysis of Resort Villages
Resort villages are mainly concentrated along the coastal line by
87% and 13% of the resorts in the urban areas. Capacity of the
resort villages is more than 813 units. The units are provided in
different sizes (Single, Duplex and Triplex).
Chart 3.3.3.4a Visitors Monthly Distribution in Al-Shula Resorts
1/12/1418 - 30/7/1419 H.
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
The
AlH
ijah
M
uharam
Safar
R
abiI
R
abiII
Jum
ada
I
Jum
ada
II
R
ajab
Months
Touristicnights
Summer VacationExamination PeriodHajj Vacation

61
Resorts villages are provided for annual rental, ownership or day

62
rental. The cost of daily rent varies between SR. 400 and 5500 for

63
each unit depending on the size and the resort quality. The
200
250
300
350
400
isitors

64
occupancy of the resort villages is influenced by two seasonal
factors. First, the occupancy increases in the weekends throughout
year. Second season is the holiday’s seasons (Eid Al-Adhha and
Eid Al-Fetar) and the end of semester vacations. Chart (3.3.3.4a
and 3.3.3.4b) shows the increase of occupancy in the two
seasons.
Weekends represent 58 % of the market with 24% and 34%, on
Thursdays and Wednesdays respectively. Monday and Tuesdays
have the second level of occupancy by 23% as some of the visitors
incorporate these days with weekends as short leaves from jobs.
The rest of the days represent the lowest occupancy as the
beginning of the week.
Chart 3.3.3.4b Daily Distribution of Units Occupancy
3.3.3.5 Cost variation of tourists villages
Cost of the tourists villages varies according the size of the village
and the amount of amenity and luxury the village has. There are
two type of rent in the tourists villages one on a yearly basis and
the other, per night. The cost of one bedroom unit per night varies
between SR 450 in Al-Shoula tourists village to SR 5400 in Al-
Khaleej tourists village for a unit with 5 bedrooms.
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700
Units
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
VisitingDays

60
3.3.4 Camping
Al-Masud53
defined Camping in Saudi Arabia, an outdoor
recreation, as the setting up of a temporary shelter, with camping
provisions for a short or extended period of stay in particular,
usually a natural outdoor, location. Camping has been recognized
in the metropolitan in two different areas. First, along the coastal
line in Half-moon and Al-Aziziah. Second, on the desert area within
the metropolitan like Al-Riyadh road and between GCC road and
Half moon road. Camping activities start mainly in the winter and
spring seasons.
For the past five years, camping started to diminish compared to
previous years. In the past, some tourists provided their own
accommodation and slept in tents along the coastal line.
Nowadays, tourists spend their time in the tent and sleep in
furnished apartments in Al-Dammam and Al-Khubar54
.
53
Al-Masud, M, 1990
54
The researcher observations. 1998

66
3.3.5 Summary of Accommodation Facilities
Three main types of tourists accommodation are identified within
the metropolitan area. These are hotels, furnished apartments and
resort villages. Hotels and furnished apartments are concentrated
in Al-Dammam and Al-Khubar while resorts are distributed along
the Gulf coast (Aziziah and Half Moon Bay). The following table
indicates the existing distribution of beds in the metropolitan.
Table 3.3.5.1 Distribution of beds in the Metropolitan
accommodation, 1998
Hotels Apartments *Resorts Total Beds
No. % No. % No. % No. %
Al-Dammam 1235 37 2370 49 160 14 3765 40
Al-Khubar 1695 51 2466 51 4161 45
Al-Dhahran 404 12 404 4
Coastal 1012 86 1012 11
Total 3334 100 4836 100 1172 100 9342 100
*Including Under Construction Resort.
Al-Dammam has a diversification of the three types while Al-
Khubar has no resorts, Al-Dhahran has only hotel, while the coast
is specialized in resort accommodation.
The real problem appears, as 85 % of the accommodation is
concentrated in the two main cities, which force tourist to live in the
city and commute to the coastal areas and major attraction areas.
That agglomeration refers to many reasons, which are:
 Most of the hotels were established in the late seventies or
early eighties when local tourism was not considered. Hence,
most of the hotels were established to serve business visitors to

67
Al-Khubar and Al-Dammam in which it is logical to be within the
cities.
 Most of the furnished apartments were essentially
established to serve the residence on a yearly rent basis. Then
investors changed the building from yearly rent flats to furnished
apartments.
 Lack of infrastructure in the coastal areas to support
developing furnished apartments or hotels.
 Investors get more secure investment by changing the
furnished apartments to yearly rent flats if tourism becomes
unprofitable or the project fails.
Chart 3.7.1.1 Concentration of Beds vs. Locations

68
3.3.5.1 Accommodation Cost Variation
The above table indicates that the coastal area has the most
expensive accommodation, which is resort villages. Then, Al-
Khubar, by average cost of SR 262 which is less than the coastal
by 70%. The last is Dammam, which is cheaper than Al-Khubar by
23%. In general, tourist accommodation in urban areas of
Dammam Metropolitan is cheaper than the accommodation in the
coastal areas. Furthermore, tourist accommodation in the urban
areas is available in a wide range of prices that suit affordability of
different tourists.
Table 3.3.5.1: Summary of Cost Variation
Hotels Apartments *Resorts Average
SR/ DB SR/1BRA SR/1BRU SR
Al-Al-
Dammam
232 173 650 202*
Al-Khubar 285 240 262
Al-Dhahran 386
Coastal 850 850
Average 301 206 750
* Excluding Resorts, because it is the only available one
DB: Double Bed Room; BRA: One Bedroom Apartment
1BRU: One Bedroom Unit

69
3.3.5.2 Summary of Tourist Accommodation Occupancy
The table below indicates that Occupancy in the Al-Khubar is 45%
then in Al-Dammam, which is 3% less than that of Al-Khubar. The
lowest occupancy in the coastal area is estimated as 13%. The
previous figures indicate, that the coastal area accommodations
are the most expensive, which illustrates one of the main reasons
for the low occupancy of the coastal area. See table 3.3.5.2
Table: 3.3.5.2 Summary of Tourist Accommodation Occupancy
Hotels Apartments Resorts Average
Ocup. Rate Ocup. Rate* Ocup. Rate* Ocup. Rate
Al-Al-
Dammam
39.25% 45% NA 42%
Al-Khubar 44.25% 45% 45%
Al-Dhahran 41.25%
Coastal 13% 13%
Average 41.6% 45% 13%
* Estimated by the researcher

75
3.3.5.3 Summary of Tourist Nights
The table below shows that hotels and apartments have the
highest tourist nights, which is more than half million. However,
tourist resorts registered 38,577 tourist nights which represents
less than 4% of the total tourists nights in the metropolitan. Hotels
have the second highest tourists nights. Furnished apartments
registered the highest, which reflects the demand on furnished
apartments. The promising figure is that the metropolitan reached
more than million tourist nights in the 1998. This figure represents
almost 60% of the tourist nights that Saudis spent in Egypt. That
clearly indicates attractiveness of the area, which can be enhanced
by more improvements.
Table 3.3.5.3 Summary of Tourists Nights
Hotels Apartments Resorts Total
Tourist nights Tourist nights* Tourist nights* Tourist nights
Al-Al-
Dammam
172,311 267,843 NA 440,154
Al-Khubar 256,188 278,776 534,964
Al-Dhahran 56,664 56,664
Coastal 38,577 38,577
Total 485,163 546,619 38,577 1,070,359
* Estimated by the researcher

71
3.3.5.4 Holiday Impacts on Occupancy
Holidays are one of the main components to have direct impact on
tourism in the area. These are Ramadhan Eid, Al-Hajj Eid and the
end of semester holidays.
The study area benefits from holiday visitors. Hotel and furnished
apartment mangers consider those days as the seasons for
tourism. For many years, visitors have constructed their tents
along the beaches. Before they were using it as an
accommodation, but now most of the campers use the tent to stay
there during the day and return to rented accommodation at night.
Weekends have a very great impact on the occupancy of the
accommodation. In the socio-economic survey, visitors are more
attracted to visit the study area on weekends then in spring and fall
seasons, after that in the winter, and finally in the summer.
In general, the area attracts a high number of tourists even in the
summer. One very important consideration should be taken, is that
the decision on the trip for the study area depends on the free time
of the tourist. Especially as a short vacation or weekend. The
following table indicates the estimated number of visitors in each
season.
Chart 3.8.1: Seasonal Accommodation occupancy

72
CHAPTER IV: Tourists Socio-Economic Survey

73
4.1 Introduction
As tourism is derived by preference, accommodation has the same
nature. For a planner to draw up the tourists accommodation plan,
it is essential to know Tourists characteristics and preferences.
Such basic knowledge about tourists socio-economic
characteristics would enable the planner to meet client needs and
preferences. For example, the size of family would have a great
impact on the size of dwelling units, and help in making decisions
like promoting the expansion of hotels or furnished apartments. In
addition, knowing what matches tourists affordability and
willingness to spend in accommodation will reflect on the type of
accommodation to be provided.
4.2.1 The Questionnaire and Survey Methodology
The questionnaire distributed in the accommodation facilities in Al-
Dammam Metropolitan. The questionnaire was distributed for 18
consecutive days between November 4 to November 21 in 1998,
including three weekends. 1500 questionnaire copies were
distributed to each accommodation facility of the study area
excluding places that refused to cooperate such as Gulf Meridian
hotel, Al- Andalsiah Suites and other small hotels, furnished
apartments and resorts see table (4.2.2.1 and 4.2.2.2). The
process in distributing the questionnaire was as follows:
1 Each facility reception received a minimum of 20
questionnaires according to their capacity.
2 The reception had the responsibility to distribute the
questionnaire to each first time occupied unit. On

74
the next days, one questionnaire was given to
every visitor checking in.
3 Upon completion, visitors would drop the questionnaire
at the reception.
4 The researcher collected the questionnaire every 2-3
days and provided more copies according to the
need.
1500 questionnaires were distributed, whereas only 290
questionnaires were received, which are 19% of the distributed
copies. As mentioned earlier that the response of the visitors was
very poor, as well as most of the accommodation receptionists
were not that interested.
The questionnaire tended to cover four aspects of the study area
visitors: First part aimed to get some information about, tourists
background. The purpose of which was to know the potential
market tourist origins, attractiveness, and the knowledge of
Dammam metropolitan by frequency of visits, accessibility to the
study area, type of accommodation they are using now, group
mixture of visitors and the period they are spending in the study
area.
Second part aimed at identifying the main attraction for them in the
study area through four points of interest:
1. Attractiveness of the study area in relation with other
attractive cities in their point of view.
2. Direct questions of what attracts them in the area in which
the researcher allowed open answers according to the visitor
understanding.
3. Researcher identified ten assumed-potential attraction to be
evaluated.

70
4. The opinion of the visitors toward Dammam metropolitan
among the other areas in the Kingdom.
This part in particular was intended to have a clear idea of the
tourist main attraction.
Third part seeks to identify the tourists preferences regarding
accommodation type, location, and preferred time of visit of the
study area.
Fourth part is directed towards the willingness of a tourist to spend
on accommodation, food, recreation, transportation and shopping.
In addition, what percentage of the total expenses is spent on
accommodation.
The last part is directed to the psychological aspects by
considering the socio economic characteristics of the tourists.
These include the visitors nationality, age, sex, marital status and
family size. Also, dependent occupation, level or education,
income and annual vacation.
Enough space was provided for the tourists to add their opinions
and comments (please see appendix I).
4.2.2 Questionnaire Distribution nodes:
The following accommodation facilities were included in the
survey:
Table 4.2.2.1 Hotels included in the Survey
Sr.# Hotel Name Number of Distributed
Questionnaires
Number of Received
Questionnaires
Al-Khubar City 500
1. Al-Gosaibi 90 14
2. Al-Nimran 60 11
3. Al-Muntazza 60 9
4. Al-Badia 30 4

76
5. Al-Khubar Palace 50 8
6. Al-Iqpal 40 7
7. Al-Bustan 40 5
8. Al-Qadsia 40 6
9. Safari Al-Khubar 40 7
10. Al-Thuqbah 50 3
74
Al-Dammam City
1. Carlton Al-Moaibed 50 8
2. Al-Hambra 60 11
3. Safari Al-Dana 40 7
4. Safari Al-Khaleej 30 4
5. Al-Khayam 30 3
6. Zahra Al-Khaleej 30 2
7. Al-Harmain 30 3
8. Al-Manara 30 4
9. Al-Jabber 50 7
49
Total of 21 Hotels 850 123
Table 4.2.2.2 Furnished apartments included in the study
Sr.# Apartment Name Number of Distributed
Questionnaires
Number of Received
Questionnaires
Al-Dammam City 520
1. Al-Murjanih 30 5
2. Najmat Al-Khalij Plaza 40 8
3. Shqaq Al-Khalij 30 4
4. Ibn Khldune 40 6
5. Al-Shatii 30 5
6. Al-Dawliah 40 6
7. Al-Shati Ibn Khldine 20 3
8. Al-Rfihia 30 5
9. Al-Khuzama 30 3
10. Al-Hazmi 20 0
11. Al-Uiairy 30 4
12. Mujama Al-Harmeen 20 4
13. Al-Huda Apartments 40 7
14. Al-Khuder Apartments 20 4
15. Al-Salam Palace 20 0
16. Al-Kmal 40 6
17. Al-Queary 30 5
Al-Dammam Sub-total 75
Al-Khobar City 630
1. Al-Khalejiah House 40 8
2. Al-Romansiah 1 30 5
3. Jwharat Al-Khubar 40 7
4. Al-Khubar House 30 4

77
5. Shatee Al-Khubar 30 5
6. Al-Umair 30 0
7. Royal House 40 6
8. Al-Mousa 30 3
9. Al-Thoukair 4 40 6
10. Al-Salheah 30 4
11. Al-Nemran 40 7
12. Moon House 40 6
13. Najed Apartment 20 5
14. Al-Ouyony 20 0
15. Al-Jendriah 1 30 4
16. Al-Jendriah 2 30 6
17. Alrha 3 20 3
18. Al-Oyni Makkah St. 30 4
19. Al-Roydhan 20 0
20. Al-Sharq Al-Ousat 40 9
Al-Khobar Sub-total 630 92
Total Furnished Apartments 1150 167
4.1.2 Survey Difficulties
Many difficulties were experienced during the socio economic
study. Which were beyond the control of the researcher, the
following are some examples:
Lack of information and studies done on the study area, especially
those related to tourists preferences, available accommodations
and other tourism facilities.
The lack of basic information about tourist population, which
disabled defining the sample size. Hence, the researcher relied on
distributing the questionnaire to visitors according to their
accommodation facilities. Consequently, the success of the
questionnaire is limited, due to the following:
1 The attitude of the administration was discouraging,
which led to obstructions due to the following
conditions:

78
1-1 Exaggeration about the confidentiality of the
facility and lack of decision-making personnel,
as most of the managers are not Saudis.
1-2 Carelessness about the importance of the
questionnaire, hence, no initiative in distributing
and collecting the form. Many were very
sensitive about their visitors and expressed
their fear of inconvenience for the guests.
2 The visitors themselves were not very interested in
filling the questionnaire, due to many reasons:
2-1 Saudi families don’t have enough trust in filling
questionnaire and do not like to give information
about their family activities55
.
2-2 The visitors feel that reading and filling the
questionnaire is a waste of their time, according
to some facilities managers who experience
very low response to their satisfaction
questionnaire which consume almost one
minute56
.
3 Time limitations of the study to be completed within a
specific time, and individual effort of the researcher
himself was not enough.
55 Al-Thakafi, 1417, p. 192
.
56
Researcher observation and personnel interviews with some recipient personnel, and Park
Plaza Suits, Gulf Meridian and Andalsiah Suits

79
4.3 Tourist Socio Economic Characteristics
4.3.1 Nationality
Saudis represent the majority of the sample by 67%, whereas
other nationalities represent 43%. The other nationalities are
represented on the sample with 10%, 9%, 4% and 7%, for Arabs,
western, GCC and Asians respectively.
Chart 4.3.1.1 Visitors Nationality
Unlike other national tourist areas, Dammam receives more non-
Saudi tourists. In Abha, for example, Saudis represent 93.5%,
while GCC residents 5.9% of the tourists57
. Having this percentage
of non-Saudi tourists is due to the fact that Dammam metropolitan
is a large business center; and the short physical distance and
some similarities of cultures for GCC residents. Out of the above
observation, tourists of Dammam metropolitan form a perfect
mixture of nationalities, which will help the diversification of the
provision of services. The Government permitted tourist visa for
International tourist in middle of 1998 to Dammam area as a new
strategy in promoting tourism.
57
Ibrahim and Al-Qahtani, Selected papers form the fifth conference for the Geographical
Departments in the Saudi Universities. P 239, 1414H
67%
7%
10%7%
9%
Saudies GCC Arabs Asian Westren

85
4.3.2 Tourists Age
The majority of tourists are between (30-39) years old which
represents 42%. Then, tourists of (40-49) and (20-29) represent
23% and 22% respectively. The total of the age group of between
(20-49) represents 87%. Considering the fact, that most of the
people in this age group are married which represents a high
tendency of families to visit the area. (See chart 4.3.2.1)

81
Chart 4.3.2.1 Tourists Age
4.3.3 Tourists Marital Status
2%
22%
42%
8%3%
23%
15-19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60+

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