The ability of management in developing tourism destination performance in Iraqi Kurdistan

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore and investigate the role of destination management organisation (GMO) in developing tourism destination performance in Iraqi Kurdistan. The background of this research is the growing tendency of reduced visitors and tourism revenue of the international tourism and lack of strategic and planning management of the tourism destination in the gegion. Also, this research is highlights the state of tourism destinations in order to improve visitor’s experience and increase their satisfaction. According to David C. Brown & Jennifer Stange, People travel for variety of reason, some travel only to relax while other maybe need to escape, or discover. However, the authors believe the central of tourists ‘push factor lies on the attractiveness of the tourism destination. At the destinations, the traveller seeks for their needs and to exercise new experience. To meet traveller’s expectation, the destination needs to set up long term strategies and unique programs to deliver good services and experiences with travellers no matter the purpose of their journey. Therefore, the destination management organizations (DMO) are often have the central role in design a comprehensive tourism industry in a place to make sure the services and the products available at the destination are delivered in a high quality to insure maximum tourism satisfaction. Furthermore, in line to the principle of sustainable tourism the DMO have to ensure the success of the destination performance for the benefit of the environment, economy and the local communities. One other strategy of the DMO that is relevant to develop a tourism destination is to work to create a dialogue and cooperation between the private sector, public sector, and other stakeholders to not leave any gaps in destination performance and present an excellent destination image This study has focused on tourism destination management ability to attract and increase the international travellers. Likewise, this research conducted through semi-structured interviews with the five tourism managers in Iraqi Kurdistan to find out their ability to manage a tourism destination to make conclusion and recommendation for the next generation .