Formulating Strategic Model for Sustainable Tourism Development in The Desert Area by Swot, Space, Qspm Model (Case Study: Yazd Province)

Tourism is a complex system that affects various aspects of human life (economic, social, cultural, environmental and physical). In this regard, the desert areas have attracted attention of the world as preferred regions for ecotourism development. Iran, as a country enjoying vast desert areas, is considered as one of the regions with the potentials to develop ecotourism in desert areas In Iran, there have not been specific strategies towards the development of tourism in the desert and there is no specific model in this regard. Therefore, this study aims to answer these questions: What are the priority strategies to achieve sustainable tourism development in Yazd desert areas? And what is the strategic model for sustainable tourism development in the desert areas of Yazd province. To answer these questions, the survey and strategic planning methods were used. The results of the study showed that tourism development strategies in the desert regions of Yazd province are in the defensive strategies group, that is, the strategies that are developed to reduce and eliminate weaknesses and threats. Moreover, management strategies have a higher priority over other strategies. In answer to the second question, it was found out that priority of management strategies over other strategies mean that other strategies for tourism development in desert regions are ignored because adopting a series of policies and strategies in the desert is possible in the light of an integrated tourism approach (Model) to tourism development plan.