Türkiye, formerly known as Turkey, is set to strengthen its tourism sector with the addition of 161 new hotels by 2025, increasing the country’s accommodation capacity by 41,339 beds.
This move comes as part of broader efforts to attract more international visitors and boost tourism revenues.
However, challenges such as rising investment costs and geopolitical uncertainties have led to a slowdown in new hotel developments in 2023.
Surge in hotel investments
According to data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Türkiye continues to be a major player in global tourism, thanks to its rich historical sites, diverse landscapes, and cultural attractions.
Despite economic and geopolitical hurdles, the country remains committed to expanding its tourism infrastructure.
Of the 161 planned hotels, 77 will be five-star establishments, contributing 28,341 beds to the overall capacity.
Meanwhile, 52 four-star hotels will add 10,051 beds, 25 three-star hotels will introduce 2,585 beds, and seven boutique hotels will contribute 362 beds.
Istanbul leads in new hotel developments
Istanbul will see the highest number of new hotels, with 37 projects currently in progress. The city will gain 10,176 additional beds, cementing its position as Türkiye’s primary tourist hub.
The breakdown of these new establishments includes 20 five-star hotels, 11 four-star hotels, four three-star hotels, and two boutique hotels.
Antalya follows closely, with 22 new hotel investments bringing 7,040 additional beds to the region. The province, known for its Mediterranean resorts, will see 15 five-star hotels, four four-star hotels, and three three-star hotels.
Other key tourism hubs
Izmir ranks third in new hotel investments, with 14 planned projects contributing 4,490 beds. Muğla and Van follow, with seven and ten new hotels, respectively.
Other regions, including Nevşehir, Afyonkarahisar, and Şanlıurfa, are also set to benefit from hotel expansions, adding over 1,000 beds each.
However, 16 planned hotel projects have been either postponed or cancelled due to financial constraints and global uncertainties. These projects, which would have added over 4,000 beds, include ten five-star hotels, four four-star hotels, one three-star hotel, and one boutique hotel.
Outlook for Türkiye’s tourism industry
Despite recent investment slowdowns, Türkiye’s tourism sector remains resilient.
With its strategic location, diverse attractions, and ongoing infrastructure development, the country is poised to remain a leading destination for international travellers.
The expansion of hotel capacity by 2025 is expected to support the government’s long-term tourism growth objectives.
