Geography and Human Relationships

Geography and Human Relationships

Identifying and Prioritizing the Dimensions and Strategies for Developing Religious Tourism in Ahvaz City with an Emphasis on Holy Shrines

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz
10.22034/gahr.2026.578766.2701
Abstract
Religious tourism, as a vital sub-sector of cultural tourism, not only holds a significant global position but can also act as an economic and social driving force, bringing about substantial benefits through increased revenue and improved infrastructure, particularly in less-developed and marginal areas. Iran, owing to its numerous religious attractions, including the Holy Shrine of Ali Ibn Mahziar Ahvazi, which is one of the important religious hubs in Khuzestan Province, is an appealing destination for pilgrims and possesses high potential for attracting tourists. Recognizing this importance, the current study was conducted with the aim of identifying and prioritizing the dimensions and strategies for developing religious tourism in Ahvaz City, with an emphasis on this holy shrine. This study employed a mixed-methods research approach (qualitative and quantitative); in the qualitative phase, four main dimensions and eighteen sub-strategies were identified through thematic analysis of interviews with experts. In the quantitative phase, the identified dimensions and strategies were prioritized by tourism industry experts using a survey method and data analysis via the Intuitionistic Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The research results indicated that, from the perspective of the experts, the four vital dimensions in the development of religious tourism, in order of importance, are: "Marketing Strategies," "Training and Human Resource Development," "Strengthening Executive Management Structures," and "Implementation of Information Technology." Finally, based on this prioritization, executive and research proposals were presented to enhance Ahvaz's standing in religious tourism.
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Volume 9, Issue 1 - Serial Number 33
Winter 2026
Pages 286-306

  • Receive Date 30 March 2026
  • Revise Date 26 February 2027
  • Accept Date 17 April 2026