Türkiye has declared a significant move to enhance its tourism sector by offering visa-free travel to citizens of six countries. The announcement, made by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, aims to foster cultural and diplomatic ties while facilitating the entry of visitors from Bahrain, Canada, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States (U.S.). Under this decree, citizens from these nations can enjoy a stay in Türkiye for up to 90 days without the necessity of obtaining a visa beforehand.
Türkiye, a renowned tourist destination, attracts visitors globally with its rich culture, history, and strategic location between Europe and Asia. According to GlobalData, the country is poised to surpass 2019’s inbound tourist numbers in 2023, reaching an estimated 48.5 million visitors. The tourism industry is expected to continue growing until 2027, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 7 percent. Türkiye is not only recognized for its cultural allure but is also gaining popularity as a destination for health and wellness.
Furthermore, GlobalData revealed that in Türkiye, international tourists outnumbered domestic tourists, specifically for leisure purposes. In 2022, 33.2 million international tourists visited for leisure, surpassing the 17.7 million domestic tourists. Germany, Russia, and the UK emerged as the primary contributors to Türkiye’s tourism market in 2022, with Germany projected to maintain its position as the leading source market due to various attractive factors for German travelers, according to the business intelligence firm.