Public interpretation of archaeological heritage and archaeotourism in the Sultanate of Oman
Author
Al-Busaidi, Ya'qoob
Date
2008Type
Thesis
Publisher
University of Wales
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
The literature demonstrates that archaeological heritage (AH) has been one of the
main resources exploited for tourism since the early days of tourism and the
communication of this heritage to different types of tourists through public
interpretation (PIN) or presentation has become a vital element in constructing its
interrelated myriad values. However, a number of controversial issues and
challenges face PIN of AH need to be systematically studied in depth. Although,
there is a considerable amount of research in PIN in relation to AH, the literature
is general and sketchy in nature and integrated with other types of heritage
resources, especially natural and living culture. Also, what is more important for
this research is that there are shortcomings in studies relevant to the interpretation
industry and professionalism in developing countries, including the case study of
this research, the Sultanate of Oman.
Although Oman is endowed with rich archaeological heritage, which is one of the
major competitive-touristic products for Oman, the general public (i.e. local
communities, the visitors, education sector, tour operators, etc) are unable to gain
benefits and communicate the values of AH effectively both practically and
intellectually. Partially, this is due to the lack of PIN for archaeological resources.
Through a case study approach, this research explores the various challenges and
issues behind this phenomenon especially that Oman endeavours to develop
heritage tourism which represents a competitive source for the development of the
tourism sector. Various sources of evidence are utilized, including field visits,
governmental documents and interviews. By the end of this research it is hoped
that two main aims are accomplished. The first is to identify the main problematic
issues facing PIN of AH in Oman, especially in relative to archaeological tourism
(archaeotourism). The second aim is to create a practical approach that aims at
overcoming or minimizing the impact of these issues.
The research findings point out three main influential and interdependent factors
that affect the development and quality of PIN at archaeological sites; i.e.: the
physical context; the stakeholders and stewardship context; the socio-cultural
context.
By utilizing previous practical and theoretical studies and based on the research
findings, a new integrative approach for PIN, Integrated Contexts Public
Interpretation (ICPI), is proposed to activate the role of PIN for AH and its wider
context. Herein, it is hoped that the sustainability of this valuable heritage and its
role as an attractive and beneficial element will be achieved. The posted
recommendations at the end of this research provide insight and assisting
guidelines for putting the proposed approach into practice. It is also hoped that
this research fills a gap in the literature relative to PIN of AH, specifically in
developing countries.
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