THE USE OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN SELECTING THE MOST SUITABLE SITES FOR TOURISM PROJECTS IN EL DRIOUCH (NORTHEASTERN MOROCCO)

Abstract

This study explores the potential of using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in spatial analysis to identify the most suitable locations for establishing tourism projects in the Driouch Province. The study aims to diagnose the reality of tourism in the Driouch province, identify tourism potential, and develop sustainable tourism planning for the long term. The research adopts the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a multi-criteria decision-making methodology. Optimal tourism planning contributes to the development of the tourism sector in a sustainable, organized, and effective manner. It leads to economic and social growth while preserving natural and cultural resources an endeavor that requires the c ollective will of state institutions, the private sector, associations, and the local population. The study employed various analytical and methodological tools, starting with theoretical approaches and fieldwork, and incorporated modern geographical techn iques particularly GIS, satellite imagery, and the Global Positioning System (GPS). The findings reveal that Driouch Province possesses diverse tourism assets (natural, cultural, and historical), which could serve as pillars for strengthening the tour ism economy. However, these resources remain underutilized, and the tourism sector has yet to contribute meaningfully to regional development. Moreover, tourism in the area is characterized by randomness and a lack of proper planning. To address this, the study proposes areas potentially suitable for tourism projects, selected based on several criteria, including proximity to road networks, the coastline, and urban centers, and distance from watercourses, hazard zones, agricultural land, and residential areas. The results offer significant potential for optimized tourism planning and will support decision-makers in making informed administrative choices not only for establishing tourism projects but also for prioritizing economic development initiatives in the Driouch Province based on its tourism assets.