Explore Like a Local: Student Generated Websites as Representation of Emirati Perspectives on Dubai Tourism

Authors

  • Michael R. Ogden College of Communication and Media Science Zayed University
  • Melissa Lee Price College of Communication and Media Science Zayed University
  • Noela Michael College of Communication and Media Science Zayed University

Abstract

Visitors to Dubai typically get their information from a Google search or consulting TripAdvisor when seeking recommendations on what to see and do. Thus, the “tourism message” tends to shift to user-generated content from a visitor’s, rather than a local’s, perspective. Visit Dubai, the official enterprise website for Dubai tourism wishes to promote Dubai as a cultural heritage destination. Taking this as the “brief,” two media production classes at Zayed University built unique interactive web experiences from Emirati student perspectives. What emerged were “local” perspectives on popular tourist destinations and activities as well as some recommendations that do not make it onto tourism websites. By tying the brief to a societal need, students envisioned the work they could do upon graduation and their roles as professionals. Also, as “proof of concept,” the student websites provide an alternative and legitimate voice to the spectrum of visitor information available on the web and one that could be harnessed to promote Dubai’s tourism attractions internationally, but with a “local” flare.

Author Biographies

  • Michael R. Ogden, College of Communication and Media Science Zayed University

    Michael Ogden is a Professor and Assistant Dean in the College of Communication and Media Sciences at Zayed University. He is an experienced teacher-scholar and practicing media producer with a focus on documentary, independent narrative film, and immersive storytelling.

  • Melissa Lee Price, College of Communication and Media Science Zayed University

     Melissa Lee Price is a Professor in the College of Communication and Media Sciences at Zayed University. Her area of expertise is User Experience Design, and the intersection of computing, design and communication.

  • Noela Michael, College of Communication and Media Science Zayed University
    Noela Michael is an Assistant Professor in the College of Communication and Media Sciences at Zayed University. Her area of specialization and research is Tourism and events management and marketing

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Published

2018-07-08

Issue

Vol. 15 No. 4/5 (2018)

Section

Articles

License

e-Review of Tourism Research (eRTR) is an international electronic bulletin for tourism research (ISSN:1941-5842). It comprises current tourism research articles, commentaries and reviews by industry professionals. The materials are provided for the personal noncommercial use of registered users of the eRTR, free to individuals and institutions. Copies of articles may be distributed for research or educational purpose, free of charge and without permission. However, commercial use of the eRTR or the articles contained herein is expressly prohibited without the written consent of the publisher.

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How to Cite

“Explore Like a Local: Student Generated Websites as Representation of Emirati Perspectives on Dubai Tourism” (2018) e-Review of Tourism Research, 15(4/5). Available at: https://ertr-ojs-tamu.tdl.org/ertr/article/view/231 (Accessed: 4 October 2024).