Abstract

Based on secondary data, this chapter examines recent measures and general trends in tourism patterns, and identifies many of the reasons why these patterns manifest. Events such as the Arab Spring and the current Syrian civil war determine many of the patterns of inbound tourism to the Middle East and North Africa. The chapter also describes the general patterns of assets and products upon which MENA’s tourism is based, including cultural and natural resources, as well as cruises and related current products. Finally, the chapter examines the most pressing issues and pertinent socio-political, historical, cultural and ecological issues in each country and describes the industry on a country-by-country basis.