Turkey has set an official goal to generate $70 billion in tourism revenue in 2027. This target is part of the Ankara government’s Medium-Term Programme, which also projects revenues of $73.5 billion for 2028 and $78.5 billion for 2029, according to ΧΡΗΜΑ & ΤΟΥΡΙΣΜΟΣ money-tourism.gr.
Increased Budget and Ranking Ambitions
The Turkish government increased the tourism sector budget to $244.5 million for 2027, up from $188.4 million allocated in 2026. The funding surge supports the goal of moving Turkey to sixth place worldwide in tourism revenue and maintaining fourth place in international tourist arrivals through 2029.
Revenue Figures and 2026 Target Revision
Turkey generated $65.2 billion in tourism revenue in 2025.
The initial target for 2026 was set at $68 billion but was revised down to $65 billion due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Global Rankings and Development Index Goals
Since 2017, Turkey advanced from 15th to seventh place in global tourism revenue, and from eighth to fourth position in total tourist arrivals. The country aims to keep fourth place in arrivals from 2027 to 2029. Additionally, Turkey plans to improve its standing in the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Development Index, targeting 35th place in 2027, 34th in 2028, and 33rd by 2029.
According to data from the
World Tourism Organization, reaching the $70 billion revenue target could elevate Turkey to sixth place in 2027 and to fifth place by 2028.
Strategic Importance of Tourism Revenue
Tourism revenues are central to the Ankara government’s strategy for positioning Turkey among the top global travel destinations. The budget increase and revenue targets reflect the sector’s prioritization despite geopolitical challenges in adjacent regions.
