Geography and Urban Space Development

Presenting a Model for the Development of Urban Tourism according to Emerging Technological Phenomena (Case of Study: Isfahan city)

Document Type : Case study

Authors

Foad Shirani 1
Nader Naderi 2
Yosef Mohamadifar 2
Meysam Khodadousti 1

1 PhD Candidate in Entrepreneurship Management, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

2 Assistant Professor in Entrepreneurship and Management, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22067/jgusd.2024.87420.1405
Abstract
Abstract
Despite the high volume and speed of emerging technological phenomena as well as their importance and impact, limited researches have investigated the impact of these phenomena on the development of tourism in Isfahan city. Therefore, this article presents a local model for the development of urban tourism in Isfahan with regard to emerging technological phenomena. This research is in the category of descriptive-survey research in terms of practical purpose and in terms of data collection method, and both inductive and comparative strategies have been used in qualitative and quantitative sections. Therefore, in the qualitative part, using theoretical sampling and the snowball method, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 experts related to the subject in order to obtain theoretical saturation. The statistical population of the quantitative section was estimated to include about 100 managers and experts related to this field. Using Morgan's table, 80 tourism managers and experts in Isfahan were selected to complete the questionnaire. To collect and analyze data, interview tools and questionnaires were used, and SPSS23 and AMOS software were used to investigate the purpose of the research. In short, the results of data analysis show that in the context of emerging technological phenomena, various factors such as managerial, structural and financial factors independently or combined and intertwined affect the development of urban tourism in Isfahan. In the end, recommendations are presented that include the need to accelerate appropriate policymaking by the government for the main elements of tourism ecosystem infrastructure, considering the profound effects of innovative technological activities.
Keywords: Development, tourism, emerging Isfahan, technological, urban tourism


Extended abstract
1.Introduction
With its rich historical, cultural, and architectural heritage, Isfahan stands as one of the most prominent tourism destinations in Iran and across Asia, playing a vital role in employment, revenue generation, and socio-economic development. As emerging technologies and artificial intelligence increasingly reshape the tourism industry, this study focuses on Isfahan to propose a model for urban tourism development driven by these technological advancements. Unlike previous generalized studies, this research is grounded in empirical data and the specific context of Isfahan.
2. Method
This research employs a mixed-methods approach (qualitative-quantitative). In the qualitative phase, a primary tourism development model was extracted through thematic analysis and semi-structured interviews with 10 experts (selected via purposive sampling). In the quantitative phase, this model was validated through a survey of 80 experts (randomly selected based on the Morgan table) using a structured questionnaire. Data collection involved documentary studies, interviews, and questionnaires. The final data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) via SPSS and AMOS software.
3.Results
Utilizing a qualitative approach (expert interviews) and statistical analysis, this study formulated an urban tourism development model for Isfahan, with an emphasis on emerging technologies. Content analysis identified 26 key factors, which were subsequently categorized into primary indicators. Statistical analyses (including normality tests and regression) confirmed that all research variables follow a normal distribution. Inferential findings indicate a direct and significant impact of four key factors on Isfahan's urban tourism development, ranked by their influence: Financial Factors (0.85), Technological Factors (0.56), Infrastructural Factors (0.39), and Managerial Factors (0.33). Consequently, financial investment and the adoption of modern technologies emerge as the most influential drivers for the city's tourism development.
4. Discussion and Conclusion
The findings demonstrate that tourism development in Isfahan requires an integrated approach where strategic management and macro-level policymaking serve as the foundation for other dimensions. The results underscore the importance of social, economic, and environmental sustainability, alongside the preservation of historical and cultural identity. Emerging technologies (such as AI and VR) are not merely promotional tools but catalysts for enhancing tourist experiences, resource management, environmental conservation, and investment opportunities. By emphasizing the synergy between intelligent management, efficient infrastructure, and modern technology, the proposed model provides a practical framework for sustainable and smart tourism in Isfahan. The model confirms the significance of managerial, infrastructural, technological, and financial factors, establishing "smart tourism" as an inevitable necessity. Policymakers are encouraged to focus on strengthening governance, upgrading infrastructure, investing in technology, and optimizing financial resource allocation to ensure the sustainability, productivity, and economic growth of Isfahan’s tourism industry.

Keywords

Development
Tourism
Isfahan
Emerging Technologies
Urban Tourism
Subjects
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  • Receive Date 09 May 2024
  • Revise Date 28 June 2024
  • Accept Date 10 September 2024

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