Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, announced the tourism sector’s earnings for the third quarter and the first nine months of 2026 during a press conference held in Istanbul. Tourism revenue reached $51.3 billion between January and September—a 2.4% increase compared to the same period last year—marking the highest figure ever recorded for a nine-month span. Furthermore, revenue for the third quarter alone rose by 5%, hitting a record high of $25.5 billion

Minister Ersoy stated: “International travel has faced exceptional challenges this year, as conflicts in our region, restrictions on airspace, and rising energy costs and airfare prices have impacted travel decisions, airline capacity, and the programs of tour operators alike.”

“Since 2018, we have taken deliberate steps to strengthen the resilience of our tourism sector in the face of crises. Through the establishment of the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), we have made our promotional efforts consistent and systematic, expanded our source markets, and diversified our tourism offerings. Achieving the highest third-quarter and nine-month revenue figures in our history—during a year such as this—underscores the value of this approach. Furthermore, Türkiye’s diverse natural landscape makes it a premier destination for Gulf tourists—particularly those from Saudi Arabia—who seek tranquility, nature, beauty, relaxation, shopping, and entertainment in what they consider their ‘second home’: Türkiye.”