DRIVING SMART TOURISM GROWTH IN ZHUHAI, CHINA, THROUGH STRATEGIC PLANNING

Zhuhai, China, has emerged as a leading model for smart tourism development by integrating advanced technologies to enhance the visitor experience and streamline tourism management. This study explores strategic planning approaches that have driven the growth of smart tourism in the city. Key initiatives identified include infrastructure development, digital innovation, data-driven decision-making, and stakeholder collaboration, all of which contribute to sustainable tourism practices. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research analyzes both qualitative and quantitative data from local government policies, industry reports, and tourist feedback to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strategies at play. The findings indicate that Zhuhai's success is largely attributed to its integration of smart technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data analytics, which meet the evolving needs of global tourists. The study also highlights challenges such as digital equity and environmental sustainability, offering solutions to address them. This research provides valuable insights for other destinations aspiring to implement smart tourism strategies.