Turkish Tourists Flock to Asia Amid Visa Delays

Turkish tourists are shifting their vacation destinations to Asian countries and Balkan states due to delays in obtaining European visas.

The number of Turkish citizens traveling abroad increased by 13.1% in the first quarter, with over 2.94 million departures, and further rose by 16.5% in the second quarter, reaching 3.43 million passengers.

According to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), more than 6.37 million citizens traveled abroad in the first half of 2026.

Japan sales jumped 70% from last year, while demand for South Korea climbed 50%, with Maldives and Zanzibar bookings rising around 25%.

Visa-free destinations accounted for 60% of total sales, with visa-required spots making up the remaining 40%, said Prontotour Chairman Ali Onaran.