Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) is emerging as a transformative force in tourism management, offering innovative ways to analyze and manage destinations more effectively. By integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) with geospatial data, GeoAI enables comprehensive analysis of tourism patterns, prediction of future trends, and the promotion of sustainable development within the tourism sector. The application of machine learning, advanced algorithms, and big data analytics allows for precise mapping of tourist behaviors and identification of critical hotspots, enabling more informed decision-making for destination planners and policymakers (Zhao et al., 2021; Miao & Li, 2020). Through the processing of satellite imagery and real-time data, AI assists in optimizing visitor flows and enhancing the tourism experience. For instance, in Kyoto, Japan, GeoAI has been effectively used to alleviate overcrowding by analyzing visitor movement patterns and recommending alternative, less congested tourist sites. Similarly, in Venice, Italy, GeoAI contributes to environmental sustainability by assessing the ecological impact of tourism activities and supporting informed conservation strategies (Xie et al., 2020).

GeoAI's ability to balance the needs of tourism with environmental and social sustainability is especially significant in the broader context of human geography, particularly in areas related to health, transportation and tourism (Cheng et al., 2022). In Malaysia, the incorporation of AI-driven initiatives within the Digital Tourism Innovation Lab (DTIL), spearheaded by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), reflects the country's commitment to enhancing visitor experiences and promoting sustainable tourism practices (MDEC, 2021). These advancements align with national development goals and global sustainability agendas by fostering responsible travel behavior, improving infrastructure planning, and enhancing the resilience of tourism-dependent communities.

Nevertheless, the deployment of GeoAI is not without its challenges. One of the primary limitations lies in the requirement for high-quality, up-to-date data, which is essential for accurate analysis and reliable outcomes. Additionally, there are growing ethical concerns related to privacy, data security, and the potential misuse of personal information. While AI technologies can play a significant role in forecasting natural disasters, managing tourism impacts, and suggesting mitigation strategies, they cannot function independently of human oversight and intervention. For example, AI may aid in monitoring rising sea levels or forecasting overcrowding, but it is ultimately human responsibility that ensures the implementation of sustainable practices and long-term environmental stewardship. The integration of technology must therefore be complemented by human judgment, ethical considerations, and proactive governance to achieve a truly sustainable tourism ecosystem in an increasingly globalized world.

By leveraging the power of spatial data and artificial intelligence, GeoAI offers valuable insights into tourism dynamics, enabling more efficient resource management and fostering a balanced relationship between tourism development and environmental conservation. As the tourism industry continues to evolve in response to changing global conditions, the responsible and ethical application of GeoAI will be pivotal in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future.

Dr. Norizan Musa is a Senior Lecturer at the Tourism Department, Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism and Wellness, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. Her field of expertise is Tourism Geography, with a particular focus on qualitative research related to pilgrimage travel, rural-urban dynamics, elderly populations, socioeconomics, and well-being. She has a strong academic foundation in geography and sustainable community development. Dr. Norizan holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Geography from Universiti Sains Malaysia, awarded in 2019. Prior to that, she completed her Master of Science (MSc) in Urban and Sustainable Community Planning in 2012 and obtained a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Geography in 2011, both from Universiti Sains Malaysia. Her academic background and research interests position her as a significant contributor to the discourse on sustainable tourism and human geography.