Purpose: Digital transformation and the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping decision-making and planning processes within cultural organizations. This study aimed to develop and validate an intelligent decision-making model for cultural planning.

Methodology: The study employed a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design conducted in three stages. First, a systematic review of scientific studies published between 2020 and 2026 was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 framework. Second, the components of the proposed model were identified through semi-structured interviews with experts in cultural management, cultural planning, digital transformation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, and were examined using thematic analysis. The extracted components were subsequently validated by experts using the Fuzzy Delphi method. Third, the proposed model was empirically tested using data collected from managers and experts working in cultural organizations and centers in Tehran, employing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings: The final model comprised five core constructs: digital capabilities, cultural data analytics capabilities, AI integration, intelligent cultural decision-making, and cultural planning effectiveness. The findings supported the sequential role of digital and analytical capabilities in creating the organizational conditions necessary for the effective integration of AI and strengthening intelligent decision-making.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that the intelligent transformation of cultural planning depends not merely on the adoption of technology but on the simultaneous development of digital capabilities, data analytics capacity, and organizational ability to integrate AI into decision-making processes. The proposed model provides a framework for guiding intelligent and data-driven transformation in cultural organizations in Tehran.