Turkey Surges to 4th Place in Global Tourist Arrivals, Boosting Economic Momentum

Turkey increased international tourist arrivals by 21% in 2025, climbing to 4th place in the OECD report.

OECD’s Global Tourism Landscape

According to the OECD’s “Tourism Trends and Policies 2026” report, global tourist arrivals reached 847 million in 2025, a 3.4% rise from the previous year. This growth follows a strong 8.1% increase in 2024, while geopolitical tensions, rising travel costs, and climate risks continue to shape the sector.

Turkey’s Ascending Performance

■Over the 2019‑2025 period, Turkey grew tourist numbers by 21%, ranking as the fourth fastest-growing OECD member.

■It stands among the countries that achieved the highest pre‑COVID-19 growth.

■Crisis management and resilience have become key competitive advantages.

Strategic Pillars of the Industry

■Cruise tourism commands the highest per‑capita spend; integration of ports and airports expands the ecosystem.

■The year‑round seasonality strategy aims to boost off‑peak demand.

■Alternative tourism products—culture, gastronomy, health, conferences, sports—are developed to generate higher value.

Economic Implications

■Tourism revenues are on track toward a $100 billion goal; quality over quantity is paramount.

■Travel agencies play a crucial role, driving significant value to local economies.

■Social security contributions and marketing support aim to preserve a skilled workforce.

Future Outlook

■By the end of 2026, tourism performance is expected to surpass 2025 levels, though geopolitical and climate risks remain.

■Turkey plans to leverage its air transport infrastructure and port capacity to strengthen competitive edge.

■Sector expertise, coupled with public‑private collaboration, will shape policy for sustainable growth.

Fatih Kılıç: Tourism reflects macro‑economic stability; Turkey’s rapid expansion, bolstered by crisis‑management experience and infrastructure advantage, injects a new competitive dynamic into the sector. Sustainable growth and high‑value creation must be supported not just by demand generation but by strategies that add value to local economies and workforce.