The present study aimed to formulate a rural development model based on the creation of creative tourism clusters in selected villages of Taft County. This research is qualitative in nature and adopts Grounded Theory based on the systematic approach of Strauss and Corbin, conducted within an interpretive paradigm. Data were collected through field research and semi-structured in-depth interviews with 24 elites and key informants, including tourism managers, village administrators (Dehyars), rural council members, eco-lodge operators, local guides, and faculty members. Sampling was performed using the snowball method and continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. data analysis was carried out through three stages: open, axial, and selective coding. In the open coding phase, approximately 220 primary codes were extracted, which were later refined into 31 conceptual categories. In the axial coding phase, these categories were organized into a paradigmatic model comprising causal conditions, contextual conditions, intervening conditions, core phenomena, strategies, and consequences. Causal conditions included core creative assets, physical readiness, human capital, market demand, local trust/participation, and supportive structures. the core phenomenon was identified as "the formulation and realization of a rural development model based on creative tourism clusters," revolving around local networking, creative innovation, human capacity development, participatory governance, and the preservation of indigenous identity. contextual conditions encompassed physical, social, economic, and institutional frameworks, while intervening conditions included macro-policies, economic status, and technological environments. The extracted strategies involved managerial, educational, branding, and sustainability approaches.