Feasibility Study of Tourism Entrepreneurship Development in Rural Areas of Darreh‑Shahr County:Application of SWOT‑AHP Model

Abstract

The aim of this study was to conduct a feasibility study on tourism entrepreneurship development in rural areas of Darreh-Shahr County, with the goal of providing appropriate strategies for its enhancement. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods in a sequential exploratory design. Through purposeful and network sampling, 15 key informants from the fields of entrepreneurship and tourism were selected for in-depth interviews, continuing until data saturation was achieved. Qualitative data were subjected to SWOT analysis, while quantitative data underwent analysis using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). The findings indicated that a combination of conservative and aggressive strategies is essential for the development of tourism entrepreneurship in the rural areas of Darreh-Shahr County. The AHP analysis highlighted the importance of aggressive strategies, such as "organizing exhibitions and establishing local markets for rural and nomadic products." Additionally, it emphasized the need for conservative approaches, including "providing long-term, low-interest loans for the development of essential infrastructural facilities supporting rural entrepreneurial tourism" and "attracting local investors to establish recreational facilities like parks." In conclusion, this study underscores the necessity of employing a diverse range of strategies to foster the growth of tourism entrepreneurship in the rural areas of Darreh-Shahr County.