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This study investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming sustainable tourism practices. Using qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 40 key stakeholders, the research identifies five main findings. Firstly, AI enhances sustainable destination management by enabling predictive, real-time visitor management and resource optimization. Secondly, smart AI technologies significantly improve visitor experiences by personalizing tourism services, reducing overcrowding, and promoting equitable economic development. Thirdly, AI-powered digital platforms enhance community empowerment, foster digital inclusivity, and promote transparent and inclusive governance processes. Fourthly, AI significantly contributes to environmental and cultural preservation through advanced monitoring systems, dynamic visitor redistribution, and resource management practices. Finally, the integration of AI necessitates strategic capacity-building initiatives and robust multi-stakeholder collaboration frameworks to ensure sustainable implementation and governance effectiveness. The study concludes by emphasizing AI’s transformative potential for sustainable tourism, and responsible governance aligned with multiple SDGs, notably SDGs 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 16.