Gulf tourists shun Turkey due to rising costs
Representatives from the tourism sector in Bahrain have reported a significant shift in the travel habits of tourists from the Gulf states.
Bookings for holidays to Turkey have fallen by a staggering 60 per cent compared to last year.
The primary reason cited for this sharp decline is the increased cost of holidays in Turkey, which has prompted travellers to look for more affordable alternatives.
This development, reported on 27 July 2026, indicates a broader challenge for Turkey' s tourism industry, which has previously been a popular choice for tourists from the region.
For travellers and tourists from other markets, including the Nordic countries, this may signal a general price increase that could potentially affect the budget for a holiday in Turkey. The dramatic reduction in the number of bookings from the Gulf states highlights that price has become a decisive factor for many holidaymakers.
Economic considerations mean that these tourists are now actively seeking destinations where they can get better value for their money.
A decline of 60 per cent represents a significant loss of revenue and visitors for the Turkish tourism sector.
The result is a clear shift in preferences, with tourists from the Gulf states now turning towards countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt, and other nearby destinations.
These alternatives are perceived as more cost-effective and still offer attractions and experiences that appeal to holidaymakers. For tourists, foreign residents, and travellers from the Nordic region who are considering a trip to Turkey, this information may be important.
If Turkey is perceived as being significantly more expensive for a large customer group like Gulf tourists, it may indicate that prices have also risen for other markets.
This could lead to holiday budgets needing to be adjusted, or result in individuals considering alternative destinations themselves to keep costs down.
The reduced demand from one major market may, in the future, force Turkish tourism operators to reconsider their pricing structure or offer more competitive packages to attract travellers once again.
For the individual traveller, this means it may pay to compare prices carefully and consider various destinations before booking your next holiday.
Source: Turizmguncel
