Climate change is one of the major challenges of the present century, profoundly affecting communities dependent on natural resources, particularly nomadic populations. The summer rangelands of Abadeh County in Fars Province have been influenced by reduced precipitation, rising temperatures, and rangeland degradation. These factors have diminished the willingness of nomads to undertake spring migration, exerting additional pressure on winter and transitional pastures.This study aimed to assess the adaptive capacity of nomadic herders in coping with climate change and to identify strategies for improvement. A descriptive–analytical survey was conducted among livestock herders from two Qashqai sub-tribes, Sheshboluki and Rahimlu, in Abadeh County. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering five dimensions: economic, social, infrastructural, knowledge-based, and governmental roles. Validity was confirmed by experts, and reliability verified using Cronbach’s alpha (0.765 and 0.867). Results indicated that overall adaptive capacity was moderate (mean = 2.09 out of 5). The weakest dimensions were economic and governmental, while knowledge-based and infrastructural aspects were relatively stronger. The Friedman test showed significant differences among dimensions (p < 0.05). The Kruskal–Wallis test revealed that only “education level” had a significant association with adaptive capacity; illiterate individuals had the highest mean rank, while age, council experience, income, participation in training, and tribal affiliation showed no significant differences. In conclusion, strengthening economic support, establishing rangeland cooperatives, developing technological infrastructure, and increasing pastoralist participation in decision-making can enhance resilience and sustainable adaptive capacity of nomadic communities in the face of climate change.