Turkey's Tourism Potential Could Reach 150 Billion Dollars

Dedeman Hospitality Chairman of the Board Ergün Demiray stated that Turkey's tourism potential could rise to 150 billion dollars, drawing attention to the importance of quality over quantity in the sector.

Program Evaluations

Dedeman Hospitality Chairman of the Board Ergün Demiray was a guest on İzzet Çapa's YouTube program, where he discussed the current structure and future of the tourism sector.

The Place of the Domestic Market

Demiray stated that the sector, which focused on foreign markets for many years, put Turkish tourists in the background, but the importance of the domestic market has increased significantly after the pandemic.

Targets and Tourist Model

Evaluating the 65 billion dollar target, Demiray argued that instead of 60 million tourists, a model of 50 million tourists with higher per capita spending and added value should be preferred.

Diversity and Gastronomy

It was emphasized that in order to increase revenues, areas such as gastronomy, shopping, sports, culture, and long-term accommodation must be integrated into the tourism economy.

All-Inclusive System

Stating that the all-inclusive system traps tourists in the hotel, Demiray said that this system should be differentiated so that tourists can explore outside the hotel.

Bodrum and Season Extension

Touching upon Bodrum's potential, Demiray expressed that the season is short and that it is essential to attract tourists to the region in the months of April, May, September, and October as well.

Accommodation Duration

Conveying that Turkey's potential could be 150 billion dollars, Demiray stated that the average accommodation duration should be extended, finding stays of less than ten days insufficient.

Human Resources and Strategy

Stating that one of the biggest problems in the sector is human resources, Demiray noted that as Dedeman, they focus on quality and unique structures in Anatolia rather than the number of rooms.