Antalya, one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, has been awarded the prestigious "2025 D-8 Tourism City Award" by the Developing Eight Countries (D-8) Organization for Economic Cooperation. Antalya is the first city to receive this honor, highlighting its status as a global tourism hub.
The announcement was made by Turkey’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, who called Antalya a destination that leaves visitors with lasting memories. “Antalya has been home to countless civilizations throughout history. It combines cultural richness with breathtaking natural beauty and continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations worldwide,” he said, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to this success.
What The 2025 D-8 Tourism Award Means for Antalya
The D-8 Organization, which includes Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey, focuses on economic and cultural cooperation. The "D-8 Tourism City Award" recognizes cities that stand out in areas such as tourism development, cultural preservation, and sustainability.
Antalya’s recognition comes with plans for events that will spotlight its heritage and promote sustainable tourism, including sports tournaments, gastronomy festivals, cultural performances, and other initiatives aimed at preserving local traditions and natural resources.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Winning the award is expected to support Antalya’s global profile and strengthen international partnerships. In 2023, the city welcomed 16.5 million visitors, and this number is expected to exceed 17 million in 2024. Tourists from over 180 countries visit Antalya, with top markets including Russia, Germany, and the UK.
Throughout 2025, the city is expected to experience a record increase in the number of visitors and will host international events and projects aimed at increasing tourism and supporting the local economy. The award is to elevate Antalya to new heights, being a driving force in the city's international promotion.