TEHRAN—Tribal tourism is a neglected potential of counties of Khorasan Razavi province.

Hassan Qorbani, a tourism researcher, told ISNA that despite the fact that counties such as Khaf, Bardaskan, Kalat, and Dargaz have the largest nomad population, they have not yet been able to properly utilize this potential to boost tourism.
Khorasan Razavi has a rich cultural and social texture and unique biodiversity, and the nomadic tribes of this province are an inseparable part of this valuable heritage, he added. 

The researcher stated that nomadic tourism, as an emerging branch in the tourism industry, can provide a unique opportunity for the economic and social development of nomadic communities in Khorasan Razavi and, at the same time, help preserve and revive the original culture and traditions of these ethnic groups.

Regarding the potentials of nomadic tourism in Khorasan Razavi province, he said that  Khorasan Razavi has a significant number of nomads with diverse lifestyles, each of which has its own tourism potential.
Qorbani considered the experience of nomadic life, traditional architecture and handicrafts, nature tourism and ecotourism, and traditional arts and music to be among these potentials, and stated that tourists can become acquainted with the traditional life of nomads, participate in preparing local cuisines with them, accompany the nomads on their migrations, and become closely acquainted with their culture and traditions.
Stating that nomadic houses with their unique architecture and handmade handicrafts of nomads are among the important tourist attractions of these communities, he said that nomadic areas are often located in pristine and beautiful natural areas that provide suitable facilities for nature tourism and ecotourism."

The researcher stated that traditional nomadic music and rhythmic movements are also among the cultural attractions of these communities that can attract tourists.
He continued by pointing out the challenges facing the development of nomadic tourism and stated that despite its great potential, the development of nomadic tourism in Khorasan Razavi also faces challenges.
He considered inadequate infrastructure, lack of education and skills, protection of culture and traditions, and environmental issues to be among these challenges. Lack of tourism infrastructure such as suitable accommodations, access roads, and health facilities is among the most important challenges in this regard, he added.

Pointing out that many nomadic communities lack the necessary education and skills to manage and provide tourism services, he said that tourism development must be managed in a way that prevents the destruction of nomadic culture and traditions.
Qorbani stated that the increase in tourists can lead to environmental issues such as pollution and nature destruction, adding  about the solutions for the sustainable development of nomadic tourism: For the sustainable development of nomadic tourism in Khorasan Razavi, necessary solutions must be thought of and implemented.

He considered investment in infrastructure, training and empowerment, development of sustainable tourism products, development of nomadic tourism branding, and participation of local communities to be among these solutions and stated that the Government and the private sector should invest in development of tourism infrastructure in nomadic areas.
Qorbani considered it necessary to hold training courses for nomads in the field of tourism management, providing services, and preserving culture and traditions, adding: “Creating tourism products that help preserve the environment and nomadic culture, including handicraft products, local foods, and nature tours, is essential.”
Emphasizing the introduction and branding of Khorasan Razavi nomadic tourism at the national and international levels, he noted that in all stages of the development of nomadic tourism, the participation and opinions of local communities should be utilized.

The tourism researcher continued that nomadic tourism in Khorasan Razavi is an exceptional opportunity for the economic and social development of nomadic communities, preserving valuable culture and traditions, and introducing the natural and cultural attractions of this province to the world. With careful planning and appropriate investment, this industry can be transformed into an engine driving economic and social prosperity in Khorasan Razavi, he added.
Referring to the natural and historical attractions of cities such as Kalat, Gonabad, Neyshabur, and Sabzevar, he stated that pursuing the attraction of investors and eliminating administrative bureaucracy is essential for prosperity of the tourism. 

He continued by referring to the natural potential of cities such as Kalat and added that Kalat has pristine natural landscapes, mountains, valleys, and abundant water resources that can be considered as natural tourism attractions. 
Qorbani also emphasized the need to introduce and promote these attractions to domestic and foreign tourists and noted that more efforts should be made to attract investment and develop tourism in the region. 
Pointing out that these investments have a great impact on economic prosperity and job creation in the city, he stated that with comprehensive support, cities such as Kalat and Neyshabur can become the most important tourism destinations.
KD