Türkiye is set to remain the leading holiday destination for Russian tourists in the 2026 summer season, amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, according to the Russian Association of Tour Operators (ATOR).
According to Türkiye’s Culture and Tourism Ministry, 6.7 million Russians visited in 2024, increasing to 6.9 million in 2025. Experts attribute Türkiye’s appeal to its broad flight network, all-inclusive resorts, and tourism infrastructure tailored to Russian visitors.
ATOR President Mayal Lomidze said instability from the US and Israeli conflict with Iran is diverting leisure and business travel from Gulf hubs like Dubai to Türkiye.
Cemil Hakan Kilic, head of the Istanbul Convention and Visitors Bureau, noted the shift is benefiting Türkiye’s meetings and events sector. “Just as tourism rebounded after COVID-19, we expect similar growth in the conference industry,” he said, highlighting Istanbul’s role as a major transit hub.
Coastal cities such as Antalya and Istanbul remain top destinations, while officials are promoting regional sites like Cappadocia. Mustafa Ates, mayor of Ortahisar in Nevsehir province, emphasized Türkiye’s resilience and ability to attract tourists with competitive pricing and a safer environment compared to its Arab neighbors.
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