Objective: Nomadic tourism generates mutual benefits for both tourists and nomadic communities. The unique natural and cultural features of nomads' living environments have made these communities remarkable and distinctive tourist attractions. Nomadic tribes are recognized as one of the most significant tourism assets. Therefore, establishing specialized nomadic tourism centers in Hamadan Province can generate income, create employment, attract tourists, preserve customs and traditions, empower local communities, and revitalize lost nomadic cultural heritage. The purpose of this study is to conduct a strategic analysis for establishing nomadic tourism centers in Hamadan Province.
Methods: Given its objectives, this study is an applied research project employing a mixed-method approach (qualitative–quantitative with qualitative priority). The statistical population consisted of two groups: experts and nomads of Hamadan Province. All 80 experts participated in the study, while 105 nomads were selected using the Morgan table from the four counties of Nahavand, Hamadan, Tuyserkan, and Bahar. Data collection tools included document analysis, interviews, observations, and questionnaires designed to assess the feasibility of establishing nomadic tourism centers in the province. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis of interviews, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, t-tests, SWOT analysis, and the Scenario Wizard technique to determine strategies for developing nomadic tourism.
Results: Results indicated that the appropriate strategy for establishing tourism centers in Hamadan Province -based on the third quadrant of the strategic matrix- is defensive. This suggests that creating nomadic tourism centers faces numerous threats and weaknesses. Therefore, any action in this domain requires caution and a comprehensive approach to securing necessary conditions. Additionally, according to the preferred scenario (Scenario 1), prioritizing technical infrastructure and providing necessary facilities to support nomadic tourism constitute the main driving forces for establishing these centers and attracting future tourists.
Conclusions: Nomads in Hamadan Province hold a positive and supportive attitude toward the establishment of nomadic tourism centers, and there is a willingness among local communities to accept such initiatives. However, the process faces several threats and weaknesses that must be addressed before planning and implementation. These include improving access routes and transportation infrastructure, addressing deficiencies in tourism -particularly ecotourism- facilities, providing essential amenities and services, enhancing public and tourist awareness of regional potentials, and ensuring effective publicity and information dissemination.
