Publication Details
Abstract
This study investigates the multidimensional impact of tourism route diversification on regional sustainable development, with a particular focus on developing countries. Using a comparative analytical approach based on systematic literature review and secondary data analysis from eight developing nations—Turkey, Thailand, Morocco, Kenya, Cambodia, India, Costa Rica, and Uzbekistan—the research examines five key dimensions: balancing inter-regional tourist flows, mitigating seasonality, enhancing local employment, strengthening destination competitiveness, and preserving cultural-natural heritage. Drawing on 2024 data from UN Tourism, WTTC (2025), and national statistics agencies, the findings reveal that route diversification reduces spatial concentration by 19–27% (measured by Gini coefficient changes), decreases seasonality indices by 20–40%, and generates employment multiplier effects of 1:1.7–2.4 in peripheral regions. However, Uzbekistan’s case demonstrates that diversification indicators remain underdeveloped (Gini=0.71, HHI=2780, seasonality coefficient=0.89), positioning it at the earliest stage among the compared nations. The study concludes with evidence-based policy recommendations for developing countries seeking to leverage route diversification for balanced regional development.