Do We Need More Tourism Studies & Masterplans? – A critical review of past years’ studies of the Palestinian tourism sector and their practi- cal applicability to actual sector needs

Given the overall size of its sector, Palestine’s tourism industry might arguably be one of the most heavily analysed and studied tourism sectors worldwide. There is hardly an international organization, which has not commissioned a tourism study or a master plan for “Destination Palestine”. However, the sheer number of studies and plans might well be an indication that most of them die on the shelf rather than being used as blueprints and guidance for action.

This tourism talk session will take a critical look at the past years’ studies and seek to discuss their practical applicability to actual sector needs. The session will also explore and discuss the validity of past years’ studies regarding their data aggregation and qualitative and quantitative approaches.

The concluding open discussion will address the question of whether more studies and masterplans are needed and if so, what shall/can be their objective and how a strong linkage to actual sector development needs can be assured.

As with all tourism talk sessions, this episode is open to all tourism practitioners from the public and private sides as well as anyone with an interest in Palestinian tourism. In addition, we especially invite representatives of commissioning parties (locally and internationally), tourism consultants and researchers to join the discussion.

SAVE THE DATE

The “Jerusalem Tourism Talks” (JTT) are open forums to address current topics and challenges for the Palestinian tourism sector. The Talks are open to the whole sector and anyone with an interest in Palestinian tourism. Hosted by EJTDP, the Talks provide a space to bring together voices and opinions from across the sector and foster exchange in an open, forward-thinking and cooperative ambience. The selection of topics is done in cooperation with the local sector based on current demands and interests.

New topics can always be suggested to EJTDP directly. Please send your suggestion, ideally including draft agenda and list of speakers or requested experts, to talks[at]ejtdp.info or use our online form!