The Efficiency of Logistic Connectivity Between King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jazan City and Tourist Accommodation Facilities

(Applications of Network Analysis in Geographic Information Systems (GIS))

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the efficiency of logistic connectivity between King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Jazan City and the tourist accommodation facilities in the city, using network analysis tools within Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A series of spatial analyses were conducted, including road network analysis, closest facility analysis, and service area analysis, to measure both the distance and travel time required to reach each accommodation facility from the airport. The results revealed that approximately 54% of the accommodation facilities are located within a time range not exceeding 6 minutes from the airport, indicating a concentration of tourism investments in the nearby areas, particularly in the western and southwestern directions. In contrast, the eastern and northern parts of the city suffer from weak network connectivity, which reflects in the scarcity of facilities and longer travel times. The study also identified an urgent need to develop new transportation corridors and improve connections to peripheral areas. Additionally, it recommends directing hotel investments towards high-efficiency zones, especially those located within 2 to 6 kilometers from the airport. The findings confirm that GIS-based network analysis serves as an effective tool in supporting decision-making, planning sustainable tourism development, and achieving more equitable and efficient service distribution.