Big data analytics and sustainable tourism: A comprehensive review and network based analysis for potential future research

Abstract

The 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development is transforming the world. Sustainable tourism options are the forwarding steps for achieving that agenda by providing environmentally, socially, and economically sound tourism options. An increasingly important technology i.e., Big Data Analytics (BDA) can significantly benefit sustainable tourism regarding tourist destination selection, enhanced tourism experiences, and satisfaction. In this regard, the authors reviewed the extensive literature on BDA in sustainable tourism, traced the evolving trends, characterized the gaps, and provided recommendations for future research. The authors shortlisted 187 articles for in-depth analyses. A comprehensive literature review was developed, and a bibliometric study and network analyses were performed to analyse the extent and nature of BDA usage in the sustainable tourism area. The bibliometric study and network analyses helped the authors document the evolution and trends in applying BDA in sustainable tourism. Based on the literature review, a future research framework was developed by integrating BDA in sustainable tourism. The framework helped in envisioning relevant directions for future research. The article helps tourists, the tourism industry, the travel industry, and the hotel and hospitality service providers to gain insights into the benefits of using BDA in sustainable tourism and adopt BDA concepts and tools in tourism to help ensure improved tourist satisfaction.