Robotics in tourism and sustainable development: A vision for the future of hospitality industry

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the integration of robotics in the tourism sector, focusing mainly on its contribution to facilitating sustainable development. It examines the growing application of robotic technology in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions - from automated check-in/check-out services to robotic tour guides. The merits and potential of robotics for the tourism sector are analysed, with attention to key advantages such as resource efficiency, energy savings, and operational optimization, as well as major challenges including social acceptance, implementation costs, and workforce impact. Drawing on real-world cases and emerging trends, this paper provides a detailed review of how robotics can help make tourism more innovative, sustainable, and resilient, thereby supporting the shift toward more sustainable development.