Critical Factors in Planning and Evaluating Hydrotherapy Tourism: Evidence from an Attractive Destination, Sareyn, Northwest Iran

Hydrotherapy tourism is a significant and long-standing area of interest, with countries worldwide employing innovative strategies to attract tourists. It not only offers desirable benefits but also plays a role in the development of tourist destinations. This research aims to identify critical success factors for tourist attraction in a prominent destination in northwest Iran, particularly in Ardabil Province (Sareyn county). It utilizes a mixed-method approach, employing the Partially Mixed Sequential Dominant Status Design methodology across three phases: qualitative, qualitative, and quantitative. The study employs sequential methods including scoping review, Delphi, and surveys to achieve its objectives. Data collection involved utilizing reputable scientific databases in the initial phase. Subsequently, 15 experts underwent purposeful selection for interviews and three rounds of Delphi surveys in the second phase. In the third phase, data collection was conducted through a questionnaire tool. Initially, approximately 141 relevant studies were identified, narrowed down to 11 primary ones using the scoping review checklist. Then, experts utilized the qualitative Delphi method to confirm and extract effective indices, resulting in 6 components and 50 indices. Finally, 61 experts provided feedback on confirming or rejecting these components and indices in the quantitative survey phase. The quantitative survey highlighted key factors influencing hydrotherapy tourism in Sareyn, such as supportive services, community backing, and smart destination management. Prioritizing healthcare, safety, reputation enhancement, and digital initiatives, like modern infrastructure, specialized apps, and social media engagement, is essential. These elements significantly impact tourist satisfaction and engagement, shaping Sareyn County’s hydrotherapy tourism. Strengthening these factors can boost its appeal, economic contribution, and status as a leading tourist destination in Ardabil Province and beyond.