Destination attachment’s mediating influence on the link between destination performance and revisit intentions: Insights from a developing country

Abstract

This study investigates how destination performance influences revisit intention through the mediating role of destination attachment among domestic tourists in Alexandria, Egypt. Using a mixed-methods design, the study conducted a thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with Destination Management Organization (DMO) representatives to identify key factors influencing destination attachment and performance. These insights informed the development of a quantitative model that examined domestic tourists using structural equation modeling. The results demonstrate that destination performance factors—particularly accessibility, activities, and appearance—significantly shape revisit intention both directly and indirectly through attachment. The findings confirm that emotional bonds, such as nostalgia, familiarity, and a sense of belonging, play a pivotal role in transforming performance perceptions into loyalty. The study underscores the importance of strategies that enhance core destination functions while fostering emotional engagement. Practical implications suggest that personalization, cultural storytelling, and targeted experience design can help destination managers strengthen attachment and encourage repeat visitation. This research contributes to the tourism literature by extending the application of attachment theory to a developing-country context and demonstrating its explanatory power within destination performance frameworks.