One place, two perspectives: Destination image for tourists and nationals in Abu Dhabi
Document Type
Article
Source of Publication
Tourism Management Perspectives
Publication Date
7-1-2018
Abstract
© 2018 Differing from previous studies about destination image, this study proposes a combined model of testing the destination image as perceived by locals living at the destination and by tourists travelling to the destination. This survey-based quantitative research was performed in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and consists of five parts: top-of-mind image, imaginative and realistic associations, strength of travelling motives, perceived destination image, and place attachment. Independent t-tests were performed to understand the differences between Emirati nationals and tourists. Results show significant differences in imaginative association and in the majority of place attachment items. The top-of-mind test puts the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque first for Emiratis, while tourists top-of-mind for Abu Dhabi is sea, sand, and beach. Practical and theoretical implications are discussed.
DOI Link
ISSN
Publisher
Elsevier B.V.
Volume
27
First Page
152
Last Page
161
Disciplines
Tourism and Travel
Keywords
Association, Destination, Image, Place attachment, United Arab Emirates
Scopus ID
Recommended Citation
Slak Valek, Nataša and Williams, Russell Blair, "One place, two perspectives: Destination image for tourists and nationals in Abu Dhabi" (2018). All Works. 2584.
https://zuscholars.zu.ac.ae/works/2584
Indexed in Scopus
yes
Open Access
no