Resident perceptions toward tourism impacts in historic center of Yazd, Iran

Although demographic changes as a result of the departure of former residents have caused the historical center of Yazd to lose its residential character, the area has recently taken on another role with the significant increase in the number of foreign tourists and the emergence of traditional hotels, restaurants, and café shops in its historical center. This newly emerging phenomenon has modified the nature of this part of the city, converting it into a rather touristic area, particularly in the Fahadan neighborhood. An examination of the perceptions of residents reveals that those in the Fahadan neighborhood in Yazd have a generally positive attitude toward tourism development. In addition, the interviewees pointed out three major impacts from the increase in tourism: (1) improvement in the physical and environmental quality of the old urban area due to the initiatives taken by the government and the private sector; (2) positive social and cultural changes in residents because of communication with foreign tourists; and (3) increasing community awareness and pride toward its cultural and national heritage. Nowadays, the people of Yazd increasingly welcome the arrival of foreign tourists, have laid the foundations for their arrival, and even received them warmly in their religious rituals. However, our observations indicate that the increase in touristic activities in the historical areas of Yazd (especially in the Fahadan neighborhood), as well as weakening the residential role, pose the risk of the museumification of this area. Furthermore, the restoration of old spaces and monuments for the sole purpose of attracting tourists causes the commodification of heritage, resulting in a potential loss of authenticity.