Artificial intelligence in sustainable tourism development a critical review of governance and managerial implications

Abstract This study critically examines the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing sustainable tourism within the framework of SDGs 8, 12, and 13. The paper synthesizes the existing body of work which focuses on AI and sustainability based on a systematic critical review of over fifty peer-reviewed articles, case studies, and policy reports (2019–2024). This review is based on building a governance-focused approach, unlike most technocentric research, which focus on efficiency gains or adoption results, and aims to conceptualize AI as a structural driver affecting the economic, environmental, and social dimensions of sustainability. The analysis differentiates the operational AI uses and more general institutional circumstances that mediate their effects, showing how the regulatory capacity, digital infrastructure, and level of regional development precondition sustainability outcomes. Theoretically, the research adds to the current models of sustainable tourism and digital innovation and suggests that AI ought to be considered as an intermediating and moderating force as opposed to an external technological device. The paper presents a conceptually-based synthesis of the two enabling mechanisms and systemic constraints in a balanced way to overcome application-oriented reviews, achieved by systematic mapping of the enabling mechanisms and systemic constraints. The findings suggest that AI will only be helpful in achieving sustainability goals when integrated into transparent governance frameworks, participatory policy formulation, and context-specific implementation plans. The relationships should also be further tested in future research by using empirical and comparative methods.