AI in Tourism Management and the Visitor Economy

Artificial intelligence is changing how destinations understand visitors, manage demand and support the wider tourism economy. AI in Tourism Management and the Visitor Economy provides a clear and accessible introduction to the technologies influencing attractions, tour operators, transport services, destination organisations and local communities.

The course explores how AI is used to forecast visitor demand, manage crowds, coordinate popular attractions and promote a wider range of destinations. It also examines AI-supported tourism marketing, tour planning, accessible travel information, seasonal staffing and workforce development across an industry that frequently experiences significant changes in demand.

Particular attention is given to sustainable tourism, overtourism and the relationship between visitors and local communities. Learners will consider how AI can help distribute tourism more effectively while recognising the risks of surveillance, inaccurate information, excessive automation and technology that prioritises visitor numbers over community interests.

The course also examines disruption and crisis management, public and private data sharing, cybersecurity, AI governance and the emergence of intelligent travel agents capable of coordinating parts of a journey. Designed as an informational guide rather than technical training, it provides a grounded understanding of how AI is reshaping tourism management while keeping human judgement, local knowledge and responsible decision making at the centre of the visitor economy.