Turkey has launched a proactive strategy to secure its next tourism season, focusing on discounts, tax incentives and extended early booking promotions to counter fluctuating demand, shifting weather patterns and economic pressure.
Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy urged tourism businesses to extend early booking periods, stressing that this is crucial for industry stability. Seasonal patterns have changed notably: spring has become colder and autumn warmer, reshaping when tourists travel and complicating long-term planning.
Ersoy announced the return of winter subsidies from DHMI, as well as expanded tax incentives for April and May, plus a 10% discount on domestic flight service fees during those months. A 5% general price reduction is also being introduced to stimulate demand.
He called on hoteliers and tour operators not to end early booking promotions prematurely:
“Keep the discounts until the hotels are full.”
The goal — to prolong the tourism season and ensure steady visitor numbers.
However, Turkey is currently facing high inflation, which has pushed travel prices up significantly. As of July 2025:
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hotel and restaurant prices increased by 34% year-on-year
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compared with December 2024 — 23.5% higher
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the 12-month average increase reached 48%
As a result, many travellers — including Turks themselves — are switching to more affordable destinations, primarily Egypt. Egypt offers competitive “all-inclusive” packages and reliable weather, making it an attractive alternative.
Turkish hotel chains are adapting as well: Rixos continues its expansion in Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh and is now developing projects along Egypt’s Mediterranean coast.
