Balancing Growth and Sustainability: Economic and Environmental Impacts of Tourism on Coastal Communities in Oman
摘要
Tourism is a vital part of Oman’s economy, bringing growth and opportunities, particularly to its beautiful coastal regions. However, as tourism develops, it also brings challenges for the communities who have long dependence on the natural environment for their livelihoods. This research focuses on understanding how tourism development affects the everyday lives of people in these coastal areas, exploring both the benefits and the costs. While tourism has created jobs and boosted the local economy, it has also led to the loss of traditional practices like fishing and contributed to environmental issues such as pollution and coastal erosion. By comparing these impacts with the city of Brighton in the UK, which has successfully balanced tourism with sustainability, this study offers valuable lessons on how Oman can grow its tourism sector while protecting its communities and environment. The voices and experiences of local residents are central to this research, aiming to provide practical insights for developing tourism that benefits everyone—tourists and locals alike—while preserving Oman’s rich natural and cultural heritage for future generations.