The Role and Position of Tourism in the Economic and Social Development of Mazandaran

Subject Areas : Iranian Sociological Review

Emran Abbasi Kali ¹ , Rahmatollah Amirahmadi ² , Mohammadreza Naeimi ³

1 - Ph.D. Student in Economic Sociology and Development, Faculty of Humanities, Azadshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Azadshahr, Iran
2 - Assistant Professor of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities, Azadshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Azadshahr, Iran
3 - Assistant Professor of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities, Azadshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Azadshahr, Iran

Received: 2025-04-27 Accepted : 2025-07-21 Published : 2025-07-25

Keywords: Tourism , Economic Development , Social Development, Mazandaran,

Abstract :

Tourism, as one of the most significant industries for sustainable development, plays a critical role in the economic and social advancement of communities. In regions endowed with the requisite tourism potential, this industry can serve as a driving force for development. The present study aims to investigate the role and position of tourism in the economic and social development of Mazandaran Province through a qualitative approach. The research methodology is descriptive-analytical employing semi-structured interviews. The statistical population comprises experts, managers, and specialists active in the tourism sector of Mazandaran Province, with 25 participants selected based on the principle of theoretical saturation. Research findings revealed that tourism,can lead to increased income for local residents, the expansion of productive services, job creation, reduction of unemployment, development of construction and residential projects, growth in handicrafts and the agricultural sector, revitalization of commercial markets, enhancement of the private sector, advancement of health tourism, and mitigation of social issues in Mazandaran Province. Thereby, it can act as a catalyst for both local and national economic growth. Strengthening living standards, fostering cultural exchange, creating abundant employment opportunities, boosting local incomes, promoting indigenous industries, reinforcing local identity, revitalizing national and local capabilities, and improving public and recreational facilities are among the most significant positive impacts of tourism. Conversely, the principal negative consequences include the escalation of goods and services prices, housing market inflation, perceived inequality, increased traffic congestion, cultural transformation, degradation and potential destruction of cultural heritage, and a rise in criminal activities.

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