Solar PV & Thermal Applications for Hotel Sector

OVERVIEW
Tourism is a key dynamic industry that has played a pivotal role in flourishing economies in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region over the past years. In 2015, tourism
sector generated about USD 194.5 billion or 8.0% of GDP1. This figure is further estimated to increase to USD 3 trillion by 2020. Furthermore, job opportunities created by tourism witnessed a noticeable growth from 4.5 million in 2011 to 8 million in 2015, a double increment in just a 4-year period signals the growing importance of tourism in the region. Moreover, not only does tourism bring economic benefits to countries, but also has remarkable social and environmental benefits. From a social point of view, tourism
helps significantly to preserve traditions which might be at risk, by showcasing the unique diverse characteristics of history, culture and lifestyle2. This would result in
strengthening the real sense of pride and identity to local communities in MENA region. In terms of environmental benefits, tourism does encourage preservation of ecosystems, and calls for proper management of natural resource in order to make destination more authentic and desirable to tourists.