Sustainable Valorization of Dechra Alhamra: An Eco-Tourism Center for Local Socio-Economic Development

Abstract

Tourism has a favorable impact on the economic development of a country. However, research now agrees that it also leads to the destruction of the ecological environment in which it is established. Its management increasingly refers to the concept of sustainable tourism. The objective of this article is to propose a sustainable transformation scenario for Dechra Alhamra, located in the city of El Kantara, into an ecological-tourist village. Eco-tourism plays a significant role in sustainable urban development by fostering environmental conservation and socio-economic growth. The proposed scenario integrates micromobility and the concept of an architectural walk within Dechra Alhamra, a site rich in heritage. This transformation relies on gentle, non-polluting transport and applies the HQE²R method, which encompasses various dimensions of sustainable development and specific action principles to transition from a simple district to an eco-district. The scientific novelty of this study lies in improving the ecological scenario for Dechra Alhamra by promoting sustainable transportation and eco-tourism. The value of this study is in proposing an innovative urban-scale development technique based on ecological tourism, ensuring a balance between heritage conservation and local economic development.