The Contribution of the Sports Tourism Ecosystem to Territorial Tourist Attractiveness : A Qualitative Study in the Region of Dakhla-Oued Eddahab

Abstract

This article examines the role of the sports tourism ecosystem in shaping the tourist attractiveness of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region in southern Morocco. Using an exploratory qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews with key territorial stakeholders, the study applies both inter- and intra-thematic analysis through the NVivo 12 software.

Findings reveal five key dimensions through which sports tourism contributes to territorial performance: (1) international visibility generated by sporting events, (2) the enhancement of natural capital, (3) the involvement of young local entrepreneurs, (4) challenges related to governance and accessibility, and (5) environmental tensions. A theoretical model is proposed to illustrate how these factors converge toward an integrated and sustainable form of attractiveness.

This research highlights the conditions necessary for a successful territorial strategy grounded in tourism innovation, co-constructed branding, and ecological regulation. It calls for stronger collaborative governance, structured support for local entrepreneurship, and the institutionalization of a shared attractiveness strategy. Further comparative and quantitative studies are recommended to test and refine this model in other regions with high sports and environmental potential

Classification JEL : O31

Paper type : Empirical Research