Despite the global slowdown in tourism, Antalya achieved an all-time record in 2025, welcoming over 14 million visitors in the first nine months of the year. As the city celebrates its strongest post-pandemic performance, the sector is now preparing for a more strategically balanced 2026 season.

The Strongest Season Since the Pandemic

According to data from the Antalya Governorship and the Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, the city received 14.091 million foreign visitors between January and September 2025. The top source markets were Russia (27%), Germany (22%), and the United Kingdom (9%). A 11% year-on-year increase compared to 2024 confirms Antalya’s renewed leadership position across the Mediterranean basin.

A Strategy of Balanced Growth for 2026

Due to rising operational costs, staffing expenses, and currency fluctuations, the tourism sector expects growth to slow to around 8–10% in 2026.

Industry representatives plan to manage capacity increases cautiously while placing greater emphasis on service quality and destination branding investments.

The New Investment Map: Premium Segment in Focus

Most of the new developments planned in Belek, Kundu, and Side are centered on the premium resort concept.
By the end of 2026, the total number of operational hotels in Antalya is expected to exceed 950.
Additionally, digital booking systems, green certifications, and AI-driven guest experience solutions are becoming key focus areas for the industry.

With its strong 2025 performance, Antalya has increased Türkiye’s share in global tourism revenues to 3.1%.
However, experts emphasize that for truly sustainable growth, the 2026 strategy must focus on market diversification, environmental efficiency, and digital transformation.