Introduction: Sustainable tourism has been recognized as a promising tool for socio-economic development and the preservation of cultural heritage in various regions. Nomadic communities, with their rich cultural structures and unique lifestyles, possess significant potential for attracting cultural and sustainable tourism. However, unbalanced tourism development can pose a serious threat to the authenticity of these communities’ cultural identity. This study examines the complex interaction between the cultural identity of the nomadic community of Rezvanshahr and the development of sustainable tourism in the region.
Objectives: The main objective of this study is to explain the relationship between the various dimensions of the cultural identity of the nomads of Rezvanshahr and the components of sustainable tourism (economic, social, and cultural) within this community. Specifically, this study seeks to identify how elements of cultural identity influence the attractiveness of sustainable tourism destinations, as well as to examine the role of supportive and participatory factors in balancing this relationship and ensuring the long-term sustainability of tourism benefits for the nomadic community.
Methodology: This study adopts a qualitative methodology. Data collection was conducted through tools such as in-depth interviews with members of the nomadic community, local elites, and officials of relevant institutions, as well as questionnaires, observation, and the review of related documents. Qualitative data were analyzed using coding and grounded theory.
Geographical Context: This research was conducted in the geographical area inhabited by the nomads of Rezvanshahr. Due to its distinct cultural and social characteristics of nomadic communities, this region was selected as the study area.
Results and Discussion: The findings show that sustainable tourism in the nomadic community of Razvanshahr is based on nine macro categories that include cultural, economic, environmental and social aspects simultaneously. in the meantime, strengthening cultural identity and preserving intangible heritage, along with economic empowerment, as two complementary axes, play a fundamental role in sustainability. also, the preservation of traditional ways of life, indigenous knowledge and social capital helps to maintain the internal structures of nomadic society. on the other hand, protecting the environment and preserving the traditional body strengthens the objective dimension of sustainability. finally, local management and participatory governance as a prerequisite of this research form the foundation of the final implementation model.
Conclusion: Sustainable tourism, when implemented through a planned and community-based approach, serves as an effective tool for preserving and strengthening the culture, livelihoods, and identity of the nomadic community of Rezvanshahr. This approach contributes to the representation of intangible heritage, economic improvement, environmental protection, and the enhancement of social capital, ultimately leading to balanced development and cultural sustainability in these communities. Achieving this requires appropriate managerial and institutional mechanisms.