Journal of Sustainable Urban & Regional Development Studies (JSURDS)

Abstract Background and Objective: The present study aimed to design a model for the development of horse tourism in Khuzestan province based on databased theory. This study was conducted using a qualitative method by conducting semi-structured interviews with 15 professors and specialists in sports and youth departments who were selected using a purposive sampling method.
Methodology: The method of collecting information was through the study of previous research and conducting semi-structured interviews. To examine the face and content validity, the research findings were presented to the participants and they studied the text of the theory and then their opinions were applied. The method used to examine reliability was the intra-subject agreement method. The average intra-subject agreement was reported to be 0.83.
 Results and findings: : Based on a comprehensive analysis of interviews, the development of horse tourism in Khuzestan province is influenced by causal factors (human resources, economy, management), contextual conditions (infrastructure, security, environmental attractions), effective strategies (planning, participation, monitoring), and intervening factors (environment, technology, education). The successful development of this industry will lead to positive outcomes such as economic growth, social advancement, entrepreneurship, and cultural enrichment. Therefore, it is suggested that in order to develop horse tourism, considering the identified factors, focusing on improving infrastructure, strengthening management and strategic planning, and paying attention to intervening factors (environment, technology, education), the ground should be prepared for the active participation of stakeholders and benefiting from positive economic, social, and cultural outcomes.

Abstract Background and Objective: Economic development of horse tourism in Khuzestan, relying on the purebred Arabian breed, is a strategic solution to move beyond the oil economy, create rural employment, and improve provincial infrastructure. This approach, by creating a value chain and attracting foreign exchange earnings, turns Khuzestan into an international hub for sports and commercial tourism. In this regard, the present study was conducted with the aim of Identifying income-generating factors for the development of horse tourism in Khuzestan Province.
Methodology: The present study is organized in two phases: qualitative (identification of indicators through interviews) and quantitative (weighting using the SIWEC method). The aim of this approach was to extract and accurately rank the factors affecting the research topic, relying on the knowledge of experts in the field of tourism and equestrianism in Khuzestan province. The process of selecting participants in different sections was also carried out based on purposeful and judgmental sampling to ensure the richness of specialized data.
Results and Findings: The research findings show that the development of horse tourism in Khuzestan requires a logical hierarchy in which investment and finance, with priority given to banking facilities, act as the cornerstone and most vital economic driver. Secondly, specialized infrastructure and border trade, with an emphasis on modern transportation and global registration of native breeds, provide the necessary physical and diplomatic platforms for a revenue leap. Finally, job creation and event prosperity are secondary outcomes that will only be achieved if the macro strategy changes from traditional approaches to establishing investment security and export-oriented development.