Tourism development has long been considered an effective tool for poverty alleviation, and it holds significant importance for a developing country like Iraq, which faces economic challenges, constraints, and a reliance on a single-product economy. The Najaf-Karbala corridor possesses substantial tourism potential. In recent decades, the cities of Najaf and Karbala have hosted numerous domestic and international tourists, particularly during the months of Muharram and Safar, with this trend continuing throughout the year. This has elevated the tourism profile of these cities in comparison to other forms of tourism.
The present study is developmental in its purpose and employs a descriptive-analytical and survey-based method. The article examines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) associated with the development of religious tourism along the Najaf-Karbala corridor. The statistical population consists of tourists traveling this corridor. Cochran's formula was used to determine the sample size, resulting in a sample of 385 individuals. The current state of the region was analyzed using the SWOT analytical model and the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM). The findings indicate that the Najaf-Karbala corridor benefits from strengths and opportunities, such as access to diverse accommodation services and the ability to attract international tourists. However, weaknesses and threats, including a lack of transportation infrastructure and overcrowding, were also identified. This study proposes strategies such as enhancing accommodation and transportation infrastructure, Risk assessment and preventive planning, Creating government incentives and attracting investment to solve economic problems, improving crisis management, developing communication networks, and strengthening educational programs for local communities. |
