commercial–recreational complexes through a meta‑synthesis approach.

In this study, using a meta‑synthesis methodology and following the stages of qualitative analysis, relevant studies in the fields of shopping tourism and shopping centers were selected from reputable academic databases and systematically reviewed. After screening and evaluating the quality of the sources, key concepts were extracted from the texts and analyzed through a process of coding and conceptual synthesis.

The findings of the study led to the identification of 62 conceptual codes, which were organized into 29 themes and ultimately classified into seven overarching categories: physical and spatial environment, service and functional capabilities, location and accessibility, operations management, governance and policy‑making, marketing strategies and visitor attraction, and the outcomes of shopping tourism. These categories provide a conceptual framework for explaining the factors influencing tourism marketing in commercial–recreational complexes.

The results of this study contribute to the development of the shopping tourism literature and provide a theoretical foundation for future research. Moreover, the proposed framework can serve as a practical guide for managers of commercial–recreational complexes and tourism planners in designing effective strategies to attract tourists and enhance the shopping experience within these environments.