The Intangible Cultural Heritage in Al-Ula Governorate, Saudi Arabia A Study from a Tourism Geographical Perspective

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to review the intangible cultural heritage in Al-Ula Governorate and to propose optimal ways to utilize this heritage through cultural events as part of tourism programs.

Methods: To achieve the study's objectives, the descriptive and analytical methods were used. Regarding the structure of the study, it included the introduction, the conceptual framework, and the analytical framework, in which the current situation of the intangible heritage of cultural events accompanying tourism activities in the study area was analyzed.

Findings: The most significant results of the study indicate several strengths that enhance the potential for sustaining the cultural heritage in Al-Ula Governorate. These include the availability of security and safety, the local community's acceptance of cultural activities, and the fact that some archaeological and historical sites are located in remote areas, which makes it challenging to hold cultural events consistently.

Conclusion: The study concluded with a set of recommendations, the most important of which is conducting a systematic evaluation of the methods used to measure the impact of festivals and cultural seasons in raising awareness among all target groups about the intangible cultural heritage in Al-Ula Governorate. Additionally, budgets should be allocated for interdisciplinary research on intangible cultural heritage in the study area, including tourism geography.