Improved tourism competitiveness

Land transport, security require development

The World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index 2013 ranked Lebanon 69th among 140 listed countries, up by one position compared to last year.

The country was 8th among 15 countries in the Middle East and North Africa, behind the UAE, Qatar, Israel, Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, and the KSA.

Lebanon ranked first for its affinity for Travel & Tourism, followed by Barbados and Hong Kong. The index noted significant economic activity in the sector, a very positive attitude toward foreign travelers, and the value of the country’s tourism attributes, including five World Heritage cultural sites, and some creative industries. It placed the tourism infrastructure in the country in 27th place, defining it as ‘well developed’.

To improve competitiveness, the index recommended further development in the ground transport infrastructure and improving safety and security conditions, particularly with respect to the business costs of terrorism.

The rules and regulations framework related to the sector should also be strengthened in order to support its development. For example, the cost of starting a business is still very high and foreign direct investment (FDI) policies should have more incentives.

The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index is presented locally in partnership with the Bader Young Entrepreneurs Program.