Enhancing Tourism by Reconnecting the Fragmented Landscape of Wadi Araba in Jordan

Abstract

This study aims at assessing the landscape condition of the Wadi Araba to enhance the tourism industry in this area. A qualitative research design based on landscape character assessment has been implemented to explore the current condition of the natural features, protected areas, and urban settlements. Then, the geographic information system (GIS) has been used for recording the collected information. The study reveals that many components of the Wadi Araba landscapes are hidden, fragmented, and underdeveloped, which negatively affected the tourism industry in the area of study. The natural environment, as well as the urban settlements, are randomly scattered in the desert and segregated from their surroundings, socially and economically. Given this, the study proposes a tourist track that links these fragmented areas. Connecting the urban settlements with the protected zones would enhance the tourism industry in Wadi Araba, create job opportunities to locals, and enhance the sense of pleasure for visitors.