Cognition of tourism efficiency and exposition of better tourism development pattern in the point of view of functional geography (case study; shahr-e-rey)

Tourism in modern times has developed to the extent that after oil and car industry it is regarded as the third most profitable industry in the world andeconomist often refer to it as the ‘’invisible export’’. Furthermore, in addition to its undeniable role in economic prosperity, tourism is considered by many countries as one of the key factors when plans concerning social, economic and cultural growths are in mind.Undoubtedly, one of the primary reasons for man to travel would have been that of visiting places of historical, cultural and religious significance in order to fulfil spiritual and sometime financial needs. In Iran too, due to great many cultural and religious diversities throughout the history and variability of local and central governments that ruled the land and their mementos that were left behind, tourism had been actively encouraged and followed. That said, Share Rey due to its several thousand years of historical and cultural significance and its proximity to numerous religious sites and holy shrines as well of being a centre for religious studies has attracted millions of visitors from within Iran and abroad each year.It is also widely accepted that tourism has a direct link to socioeconomic prosperity in any country and Shahr-e- Rey is no exception as almost all major city infrastructures are built in the vicinity of the religious centre.Based on data gathered from the 310 individuals (residence, academics and tourists) who took part in my survey and the information collated on the subject of this study, there is a strong correlation between growth and socioeconomic development and tourist attractions in that region. Therefore, it can be deduced that underdevelopment often experienced in Shahre Rey is directly linked to the city being less popularised and presented to potential visitors that is desired which in turn leads to lack of fundamental planning and groundwork development.