Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism Sector to Soar Over Next 10 Years, WTTC Claims

Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism sector is set to soar to new heights in 2025, according to latest data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), cementing the country’s status as one of the world’s most popular and most resilient destinations.

With a projected ₺5.2TN (€34.3bn) contribution to the national economy in 2025 – equivalent to 12% of Türkiye’s GDP – Travel & Tourism is forecast to grow more than ₺200BN above last year.

According to the research, both international and domestic visitors are set to fuel this success, with international visitor spending in 2025 forecast to reach ₺2.6TN, underscoring Türkiye’s rising global appeal.

Domestic visitor spending is projected to reach ₺1.4TN, reflecting the vibrant strength of Türkiye’s homegrown tourism economy.

In 2025, Travel & Tourism is expected to support 3.3 million jobs across the country, representing over 10% of all national employment. From hospitality and transport to food services and cultural experiences, the sector is creating meaningful, long-term opportunities for millions of Turkish citizens.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said:“Travel & Tourism in Türkiye continues to grow at pace and is reaching record numbers. As travellers seek authentic, enriching experiences, Türkiye is delivering with open arms, offering travellers a world-class experience.” 

Last year, Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed ₺5TN to the Turkish economy – representing nearly 12% of total GDP. It also supported 3.2 million jobs, representing one in every 10 across the country.

International visitors spent ₺2.5TN, just over 5% below the year before, while domestic travellers added a further ₺1.3TN, emphasising the sector’s broad and growing impact.

Ms Simpson added: “2025 is on track to be a record year for Türkiye’s Travel & Tourism sector, but success can never be taken for granted. While the country made great strides in 2024, international visitor spending did see a slight decline. In a competitive global market, Türkiye must continue to innovate and invest to retain its world-leading position.” 

WTTC projections show the sector will maintain strong growth through to 2035.

Travel & Tourism is forecast to contribute ₺7TN to the economy by 2035, almost 13% of GDP, and is expected to support 3.8 million jobs, creating over half a million new roles over the next 10 years.

International visitor spending and domestic tourism are both expected to rise steadily, to reach ₺3.4TN and ₺1.7TN respectively.