The impact of user-generated content on the perceived value of rural tourism

Abstract

This study examines the impact of user-generated content (UGC) on the perceived value of rural tourism in Algeria amidst rapid digital transformation. The study focuses on the dimensions of UGC: content type, source credibility, information quality, and visual appeal, and employs a descriptive-analytical methodology. Data from a survey distributed electronically to a sample of 195 Algerian tourists was analyzed. The results of simple linear regression analysis reveal statistically significant positive effects (α ≤ 0.05) of all UGC dimensions on perceived value. Source credibility emerged as the strongest predictor (R² = 0.518), followed by content type (R² = 0.477), visual appeal (R² = 0.389), and information quality (R² = 0.173). The findings highlight the pivotal role of UGC in shaping authentic and credible perceptions of rural destinations.