Tourism

A programme focused on the development of the local Palestinian tourism sector to meet the needs of domestic and international visitors.

The Portland Trust identified tourism as a sector with potential within Palestine especially, as visitor growth has not matched regional trends despite the significant historical and cultural heritage. Expanding tourism promotes entrepreneurship, creates jobs and provides an important source of foreign capital. In 2009, The Portland Trust represented the private sector in setting up a public-private partnership with the Palestinian Ministry of Tourism to promote Palestine as a tourist destination. Technical and financial assistance was provided to help create a Palestinian Tourism Board. A draft operational plan, first year budget and bylaws for the Board were created and submitted to the Palestinian Prime Minister’s office in June 2009.

The Portland Trust’s current tourism programme grows out of key sectoral recommendations in the Beyond Aid analysis, which advocates for the development of core Palestinian cities, including Bethlehem and Jericho, into world-class city destinations. Improving the quality of tourism offerings, historical and cultural sites is a pre-requisite for attracting more tourists, increasing the average length of visitor stays and boosting tourist spending.

In 2013, The Portland Trust prepared a report on the potential development of a new iconic museum in Jericho. The Portland Trust also helped to promote the establishment of two hospitality schools to improve the quality of service provision. It continues to promote the creation of a private sector led Tourism Board.

The Portland Trust has sought to promote the development of the Solomon Pools Complex, a BDI project, by working with relevant stakeholders to develop a business plan to attract investment.