Suggestions have been made by the tourism sector for the development of tourism in Ankara. Industry authorities stated that to extend the tourism season in Ankara throughout the year, an increase in direct flights is necessary. Particularly highlighting the lack of direct flights in terms of health tourism, the Anatolian Hoteliers Association (TUROYD) Central Anatolia Regional Executive Board Chairman Gökhan Esengil mentioned that the lack of direct flights creates a disadvantage, especially for health tourism, as foreign tourists have to land in other cities and travel long distances to reach Ankara. Esengil discussed potential steps that could be taken for the development of tourism in Ankara. Pointing out the need for a significant transformation in tourism in the city, Esengil emphasized, “The city requires a structural change in this area. Ankara’s contribution to the country’s economy through tourism could be greater. Therefore, necessary transformative policies should be implemented.” He mentioned that they aim to quickly implement the projects prepared by TUROYD for this purpose, emphasizing the importance of initial promotion.

Esengil stressed the importance of closely monitoring global tourism trends and expressed support for the vision set forth by our Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mr. Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, for Turkey to stand out in the vast competition in the Mediterranean region, which is soon to be joined by the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. He pointed out the need for alternative tourism models to broaden the base of tourism, stating that diversifying investments and utilizing new financing models will trigger growth in the sector.

Esengil also mentioned the necessity for domestic hotel chains to increase their visibility in the international market, saying, “The presence of local brands abroad should be enhanced. One of TUROYD’s objectives is to extend tourism in Ankara throughout the year. The primary issue negatively impacting the city’s tourism is the lack of sufficient direct flights. This deficiency in direct flights creates a disadvantage, particularly in health tourism, as foreign tourists have to land in other cities and travel long distances to reach Ankara. If this issue is resolved, a significantly higher number of tourists could be attracted.”