Exploring the Role of Tourism on Land Use Value in Rural Areas: A Case Study

Abstract

This study aims to explain the role of tourism in land use valuation in rural areas of Iran through a case study approach. The research method is mixed (qualitative–quantitative), and survey techniques such as interviews and questionnaires have been used among rural residents. The results indicate that tourism-based development policies in rural areas, through strengthening tourism infrastructure and products, creating job opportunities and income, enhancing cultural identity, preserving cultural heritage and common natural resources and the type of tourism policies, can contribute to improving land value. One of the key factors in increasing land value is the registration and reputation of villages as tourist destination villages. After the official registration of the villages as tourist destinations, land value has significantly increased and the dominant land uses have shifted towards tourism-related uses. This research clearly demonstrates that tourism can serve as an effective approach for improving the rural economy and enhancing land use value, while also playing a significant role in preserving and strengthening the cultural heritage of rural areas.