Integrating Destination Attributes, Political (In)Stability, Destination Image, Tourist Satisfaction, and Intention to Recommend: A Study of UAE

Very limited attention has hitherto been paid to political-specific issues that may significantly guide the successful formation of destination image. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to examine the interrelationships between destination attributes, political (in)stability, destination image, tourist satisfaction, and intention to recommend, to build a conceptual framework of the drivers and outcomes of destination image. Twelve hypotheses (null and alternative) were developed and examined, using a sample of 829 tourists visiting the UAE. Results show that tourists’ evaluation of the destination attributes and political (in)stability act as antecedents of perceived destination image. Furthermore, political (in)stability and destination image have a strong effect on tourist satisfaction and intention to recommend. The current study enhances current theorizations by examining the merits of political (in)stability in models of tourists’ intention to recommend. From a practical perspective, the study presents significant implications for destination marketers.