Istanbul's Cultural and Artistic Life Strengthened by Major Holding Investments
Turkey's leading business groups are making large-scale investments in museums, exhibitions, and architectural projects to enhance Istanbul's international cultural appeal.
Leading holdings and business groups in Turkey are making significant contributions to Istanbul's global appeal and the development of its urban identity through large-scale cultural and artistic investments.
Art and Museum Investments by Holdings
The Sabanci University Sakip Sabanci Museum drew the focus of international art circles to Istanbul thanks to the Yoko Ono exhibition held in collaboration with MUSAC in Spain and Akbank.
Istanbul Modern, supported by the Eczacibasi Group, continues to welcome visitors once again starting from 2023 in its new building designed by Renzo Piano.
The Rahmi M. Koc Museum, focusing on industrial history within the Koc Group, has maintained its position as one of the city's leading cultural routes since opening its doors in 1996.
Cultural Tourism and Economic Contributions
While Turkey hosted approximately 64 million visitors in 2025, tourism revenues reached the level of 65 billion dollars. In this economic success, cultural and artistic activities rank among the main elements increasing the country's international tourism appeal.
TAV Airports CEO Franck Mereyde stated that understanding the country's cultural dynamics while doing business in Turkey is becoming increasingly critical.