With a projected ₺5.2tn. contribution to the national economy in 2025 – equivalent to 12% of Turkey’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 Turkey’s rising global appeal.
Domestic visitor spending is projected to reach ₺1.4tn., reflecting the vibrant strength of Turkey’s homegrown tourism economy and the appetite of its people to explore the richness of their own country.
The global tourism body’s latest Economic Impact Research also shows that this impressive growth isn’t just economic.
In 2025, Travel & Tourism is expected to support 3.3mn. 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.”
A look back at 2024
Last year, Travel & Tourism sector in Turkey contributed ₺5tn. to the Turkish economy – representing nearly 12% of total GDP. It also supported 3.2mn. 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.
Simpson added “2025 is on track to be a record year for Türkiyes 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.”
Coral Travel Group, one of the leading tourism groups in Turkey and Europe, also welcomed the outlook.
Chairman of the Board and WTTC Member, Ayhan Bektas, said “We are proud to be part of Türkiye’s tourism story and to contribute to a sector that supports millions of jobs and delivers real value to the national economy. The partnership between the private sector and government has helped make Türkiye one of the world’s most dynamic travel destinations — and we look forward to continuing that success together. We will continue our efforts to support Türkiye’s rise.”
Looking to 2035: A Decade of Promise
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 3.8mn. 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.
Tags: Ayhan Bektas, Julia Simpson, WTTC, Turkey
