Strategic analysis of tourism role and function in regional development with emphasis on SOAR model (Case study: Maragheh town)

Tourism industry is increased increasingly. The predictions show that in future years, this growing trend of tourism is increased. This study considered tourism of Maraghe town with potential abilities and capacities in this sector. The main purpose of the present study is that by applying SOAR strategic analytic model and AHP method and besides identification of tourism dimensions of Maraghe town effective on the region development, we can present strategies and determine the applied strategies for tourism development in this region. The study method is descriptive-analytic and field and the theoretical basics are based on library studies. It can be said the study population of this study are tourists, elites and experts of Maraghe town. The questionnaire is calculated based on the number of tourists based on Cochran’s formula 150 people. Based on the analysis in AHP model, according to the experts, elites and tourists, natural attractions, historical works of various periods and Maraghe fissile region with weights 0.235, 0.211, 0.154 are the strengths of this region. The results of analyses in opportunities showed that development and protecting gardens of towns with weight 0.285 with investment of private sector in tourism of region with weight 0.235 and preparation for various tourism camps with weight 0.165, can be advanced sectors of tourism development in this region.