Abstract

Despite its size Libya has been largely dependent upon its natural resources
of oil and gas. Yet, given its long Mediterranean coast, and
its rich heritage extending from the ancient Romans to recent colonial
times including the Turks, the Italians and the British; the country
could possibly become a major tourist attraction. In other words,
Libya can boost its oil-dependent economy by properly investing in its
tourism potential. The main purpose of this study was to highlight the
tourism potential of Libya particularly its heritage tourism. In this regard,
the question of urbanization and urban development will be key
to the process of promoting heritage tourism. Hence, heritage tourism
will be discussed in the context of urban development in third world
countries. The relationship between heritage tourism and urban development
will be analysed in relation to the capital city Tripoli as a case
study. To evaluate heritage tourism in the Libyan capital, qualitative research
methods were used to acquire the appropriate information. These
methods included visual observation, documents analysis, and content
and semiotic analysis. Throughout these methods, the researcher have
given a full justi�cation about why these methods have been employed.
In addition, and according to the utilised methods, the researcher have
utilized a variety of materials to promote Tripoli and Libya, in general,
as foreigner tourists attractive destination. These materials comprise
photos, audio-visual materials, art objects, and government documents.
Moreover, a detailed content and semiotic analysis of available facilities
in Tripoli has been done in the light of the guidebook \Lonely Planet"
analysis. Finally, the researcher highlighted the problems associated
with tourism industry in Libya and recommended numerous steps for
the Libyan government to update and upgrade the tourism sector in
Libya.