Türkiye’s tourism goals: 60 million visitors, $60 billion in revenue
Hot air balloons fill the skies of Cappadocia, Türkiye, August 9, 2024. (Photo via X)
Türkiye’s Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that the country’s tourism sector has consistently met its goals over the past six years.
Speaking on Haberturk TV’s program, Minister Ersoy stated that Türkiye is on track to achieve its 2024 target of 60 million visitors and $60 billion in revenue. He emphasized that Türkiye is among the most effective countries globally in tourism promotion.
Record-breaking visitor numbers expected in 2024
Minister Ersoy highlighted Türkiye’s rapid recovery in tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that the country is expected to attract 60 million tourists by the end of the year.
“We have consistently met all our targets set by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism over the past six years, and we intend to continue doing so. We are a ministry that doesn’t rely on excuses but is persistent in reaching our goals,” he said.
Minister Ersoy also discussed Türkiye’s extensive global advertising efforts, particularly during high-profile events such as the U.S. presidential elections.
“We consider every destination that Turkish Airlines flies to as a target destination. We have established long-term promotional agreements with global news channels like CNN International, BBC International, Al Jazeera, and Euronews,” Ersoy explained.
He also mentioned that similar promotional efforts were made during the Olympics broadcast on Euronews, with Turkish tourism ads airing in 55 countries.
Addressing Instagram access issue
Regarding the temporary Instagram access ban in Türkiye, Minister Ersoy expressed optimism that the issue would be resolved through mutual understanding.
He emphasized that Türkiye’s promotional efforts are not solely dependent on Instagram, as the country employs a wide range of media channels, including YouTube, Twitter, and traditional media.
Visitor management at Kariye Mosque
Minister Ersoy discussed the new visitor management plan implemented at Kariye Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
He explained that due to the site’s small size, only about 110 visitors can be accommodated at a time to prevent damage. The mosque will be open for worship on Fridays and for tourist visits during the rest of the week, with a 20 euro ($21.86) fee for foreign tourists.
Tourist demographics, economic impact
Responding to media discussions about the nationality of tourists visiting Türkiye, Minister Ersoy clarified that tourists from Gulf countries constitute only about 5% of the total, with higher concentrations in cities like Istanbul, Bursa, and Trabzon.
He dismissed claims of an overwhelming influx of Arab tourists as politically motivated, emphasizing that Gulf tourists are among the highest spenders.
Minister Ersoy reported that Türkiye’s per capita overnight revenue in tourism has increased from $80 to $109, surpassing many European countries.
He also discussed ongoing efforts to expand public beaches, with plans to add three new beaches to the existing 15 each year.
Restoration of earthquake-damaged cultural sites
Minister Ersoy provided updates on the restoration of cultural heritage sites damaged in the February 2023 earthquakes. The most significant damage occurred at the Hatay Museum, where ground reinforcement work has been completed.
The ministry has initiated over 1,300 restoration projects, with most expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Antakya to become ‘Museum City’
Minister Ersoy revealed plans to transform Antakya into a “museum city” in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Urban Planning.
The 307-hectare area will undergo archaeological surveys and excavations to enhance its cultural value. He assured that excavation work across Türkiye has been extended from 45-50 days to a full year under the “Heritage for the Future” project, with additional resources and personnel allocated.
Increased oversight on foundation properties
Ersoy also discussed the strict measures taken regarding the management of foundation properties, particularly in raising rents and collecting back payments from large corporate tenants.
He emphasized the importance of adhering to the original charters of these foundations in managing and utilizing the properties.
