Tourism Management Studies

Assessment of Indicators for Identifying Water-Based Tourism Potential: A Case Study of South Khorasan

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

sara parsapour 1
Maryam Rasulzadeh 1
reza rezvani parkand 2
javad barati 3

1 Researcher, Department of Tourism Economics, Tourism Research Institute , Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Khorasan Razavi

2 Department of Tourism Management and Planing, Tourism Research Institute , Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Khorasan Razavi

3 Department of Tourism Economics, Tourism Research Institute , Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Khorasan Razavi

https://doi.org/10.22054/tms.2026.91211.3173
Abstract
Water-based tourism, relying on water resources and infrastructures, can enhance regional economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable development, particularly in arid areas. South Khorasan Province, despite water scarcity, contains diverse water-related attractions, many of which remain underutilized. This study aims to identify key indicators for water tourism potential and prioritize suitable areas using a fuzzy approach and Fuzzy TOPSIS. Data were collected through document review, official statistics, field visits, and consultation with 30 experts. Six priority areas were identified: land at the beginning of Amirshah Road, Nahreen Reservoir, Farkhi Reservoir, Dig Rostam Hot Spring, Gavab Natural Pond in Khusf, and Siahu Reservoir. The findings provide a scientific basis for planning, guiding investment, and promoting targeted development of water tourism in the province and other arid regions.

Keywords

Water-based tourism
Area prioritization
Fuzzy TOPSIS
Water structures
South Khorasan Province
Subjects
Tourism Management Studies

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 04 May 2026

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