VisitScotland commissioned research into how Scotland’s residents feel about the Scottish tourism industry, and explored their opinion on the role of tourism, and the positive and negatives of tourism.
Key findings include:
- 95% of respondents viewed the tourism sector as one of the top three most important industries to the Scottish economy
- 77% of respondents agree that tourism helps to conserve and protect Scotland’s built heritage
- The tourism industry was viewed positively by 91% of respondents, with 44% strongly agreeing that “the benefits outweigh the negatives”
Looking more closely at the sentiments of Edinburgh’s residents:
- 89% of respondents stated that tourism creates/increases local employment opportunities
- 80% of respondents stated that tourism improves the local economy and helps generate economic growth in the area
- 76% of respondents stated that tourism leads to events being held and other activities that residents can enjoy
- 74% of respondents stated that tourism helps to sustain historic buildings and monuments in the area
However, Scottish residents have highlighted concerns including: (i) the reduction of affordable housing due to second homes/the holiday rental market (53% of respondents), and (ii) almost half of respondents (48%) disagreed that tourism protects and enhances the natural environment.
At the heart of the of the Edinburgh Tourism Strategy 2030 is residents, with a key ambition being that Edinburgh’s tourism sector will directly and positively contribute to the quality of life for the city’s residents. As we continue to deliver the strategy, and responsibly develop tourism in the city, this will remain a guiding principle.
Read more at: https://www.visitscotland.org/news/2025/residents-survey.