THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN THE HANDMADE CARPET “ZARBIA” PRODUCTION AND TOURISM IN GHARDAIA, ALGERIA: A QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS

Ghardaia, a prominent tourist destination in Algeria, attracts numerous visitors annually, contributing significantly to the region’s economy. Known for its rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage, the region’s urban landmarksearned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1982. One of its most important traditional industries is the handmade carpet "Zarbia" sector, which has been part of the region's heritage for thousands of years. Despite the challenges posed by modern industries, this eco-friendly craft remains highly valued, providing a source of livelihood for local women and accommodating workers of all ages, from young people to the elderly. However, in recent years, the industry has faced a decline, posing a risk to its survival. The study aims to identify strategies for sustaining the handmade carpet "Zarbia" weaving as a viable income source, while enhancing tourism in Ghardaia and Algeria. This paper explores the relationship between Zarbia production and tourism in Ghardaia, Algeria, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study analyzes survey data, tourism flow statistics, and artisans 'distribution to identify key trends, challenges, and opportunities. The findings suggest that Zarbia production plays a significant role in cultural tourism, but challenges, such as high costs and limited marketing, hinder its full potential. Data analysis utilized SPSS and Excel. The paper concludes with recommendations for integrating Zarbia into the tourism sector and making predictions for future growth.