Exit Deadline Set For April 18

According to the Ministry, the extension is valid until April 18, during which eligible visitors can complete departure formalities. Overstay fines will not be imposed if the process is finished within the permitted timeframe. Authorities described the measure as a time‑bound facilitation introduced due to circumstances that made timely travel difficult for many visitors.

Who Is Covered Under The Extension

The relief applies specifically to holders of visit visas that expired while they were inside Saudi Arabia. The provision is not linked to the original purpose of travel but is limited to visitors currently present in the Kingdom on this visa category. Those who qualify must ensure their status is corrected within the approved window to avoid immigration issues later.

Overseas arrivals totaled 34.3 million, a modest decline of 2.5% year-over-year, indicating relatively stronger resilience compared to nearby markets. Notably, three regions posted gains in visitor volumes. Central America led growth with a 4.7% increase to 1.69 million visitors, followed by Eastern Europe (+2.5%) and the Middle East (+2.0%), each contributing just over 1.1 million travelers.

In the meantime, hostile political statements and positions of the current Trump administration against some countries influenced negatively travel to the USA. As an example, Danish arrivals to the USA were down by 23.5% while Swiss arrivals declined by 10.7%.

Mexico retained its position as the top inbound market, delivering nearly 18 million visitors, up 6.4% from 2024. In contrast, Canada, the second-largest source market, saw a sharp 20.9% decline to 16 million visitors, weighing heavily on overall performance. By gateway, New York remained the leading port of entry with 5.8 million arrivals, followed by Miami and Los Angeles.

Outbound travel by U.S. citizens painted a more robust picture. December departures rose 3.6% year-over-year to 10.2 million, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 15%. For the full year, North America accounted for 48.6% of outbound travel, while overseas destinations captured a slightly higher 51.4% share.

Mexico dominated outbound flows with over 39.6 million trips YTD, while the Caribbean attracted 11.3 million travelers, together representing nearly half of all departures. Europe ranked as the second-largest overseas destination in December, with 1.59 million U.S. visitors, up 2.9% from the previous year, underscoring sustained transatlantic demand.

Major regional aviation hubs—including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Bahrain—which typically handle around 526,000 passengers per day, have experienced closures and operational disruptions as the conflict escalates, significantly affecting both regional and global connectivity.

WTTC’s analysis is based on its pre-conflict 2026 forecast for the Middle East, which projected $207 billion in international visitor spending across the region this year. Any disruption to travel flows therefore quickly translates into a substantial economic impact across the tourism ecosystem.

Despite current challenges, WTTC emphasizes that travel and tourism remains one of the world’s most resilient economic sectors.

WTTC research into previous crises shows that tourism demand following security-related incidents can recover in as little as two months, provided governments and industry act quickly to restore traveler confidence.

Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, said: “Travel and tourism is one of the most resilient sectors. International visitor spending across the Middle East is significant, averaging around $600 million per day. However, history shows the sector can rebound quickly, especially when governments support travelers through measures such as hotel assistance or repatriation efforts.

“Our analysis of past crises demonstrates that security-related incidents often see some of the fastest recovery times in tourism—sometimes as quickly as two months—when governments and industry work together to rebuild traveler confidence. WTTC commends the governments that have worked tirelessly in recent days to support recovery efforts.

“Clear communication, strong coordination between the public and private sectors, and measures that reinforce safety and stability are critical to rebuilding trust among travelers and supporting the sector’s recovery.”

WTTC, which represents the global private sector, continues to monitor developments on behalf of its members and remains in close contact with governments and industry leaders to support traveler safety and the resilience of the global travel and tourism sector.

Expanding Economic Cooperation

One of the key focuses of the discussions was increasing the trade volume between the two countries. Turkey and Serbia aim to further expand bilateral trade, encourage new investments and support cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure, energy and manufacturing.

Economic officials from both sides highlighted that Turkish companies have already invested in several projects across Serbia, contributing to employment and regional development.

Strengthening Political Dialogue

The agreements also reaffirm the commitment of both governments to maintain close political dialogue and cooperation on regional stability in the Balkans. Leaders emphasized the importance of diplomatic engagement and collaboration in international platforms.

Boosting Tourism Between the Two Countries

Tourism was another major component of the agreements. Authorities from both countries expressed their intention to increase tourist mobility by promoting travel opportunities and cultural exchange.

Direct flights and simplified travel procedures have already contributed to a rise in tourist numbers between Turkey and Serbia. Tourism agencies from both countries are expected to collaborate on promotional campaigns highlighting destinations such as Istanbul, Antalya and Belgrade.

Growing Regional Partnership

Officials stated that the agreements mark another step toward building a long-term strategic partnership between Turkey and Serbia. By strengthening economic ties, political cooperation and tourism exchanges, both countries aim to deepen their relationship and contribute to broader regional connectivity in Southeast Europe.

Registrations have started for UEZ 2025, which will be held in Sapanca from April 17-20, organized by Capital, Ekonomist, Start Up, and CeoLife magazines. Participants can register for UEZ 2025 at www.uluslararasiekonomizirvesi.org. Detailed information on the program and participants is being shared on the website and social media channels.

Regarded as one of the most anticipated business and economics events in Eurasia, UEZ offers participants the opportunity to gain insights from expert speakers.

Pioneers of the Business World to Speak on Panels

At UEZ 2025, topics such as digital transformation, sustainability, economic fluctuations, and emerging trends shaping the future will be discussed. The list of speakers from Turkey is also starting to take shape, and among the confirmed names are:

• Christian Wulff – Former Federal President of Germany and Co-Chairman of the German-Turkish Business Council
• Prof. Dr. Ali Hakan Kara – Economist and Academic
• Cem Öztürk – Sanofi Eurasia Regional President
• Cenk Alper – CEO and Board Member of Sabancı Holding
• Erol Bilecik – Chairman of the Board of Index Group and former Chairman of the Board of TÜSİAD (2017-2018)
• Esin Güral Argat – Acting Chairman of the Board of Gürok Group
• Fuat Tosyalı – Founder and Chairman of Tosyalı Holding
• Mehmet Ali Yalçındağ – Turkish Businessman and Board Member of the Turkish Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEİK)
• Murat Özyeğin – Chairman of the Board of Fiba Group
• Vahap Küçük – Chairman of the Board of LC Waikiki

Prominent figures known worldwide in the fields of economics and politics will also participate in UEZ 2025. The speaker list is updated weekly on the UEZ website.

For the latest updates on UEZ 2025, please visit uluslararasiekonomizirvesi.org and follow the summit’s social media accounts.

“As the Philippines takes on the Chairmanship of ASEAN 2026, I invite you to join us in the Philippines for the 29^th ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in Cebu on January 2026. It will be an opportunity not just to discuss policies, but to witness firsthand the immense potential for sustainable tourism growth in the region,” Secretary Frasco said.

As the host of the tourism forum, the Philippines will also organise preparatory events in Manila and Boracay, different ASEAN meetings and the TRAVEX trade show.

“The Philippines, with its spirit of hospitality and deep sense of community, stands ready to open its pristine shores to all of you, where we will write a new chapter of the ASEAN story: a legacy of unity, sustainability, and prosperity for all”, Frasco continued.

During the Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, Frasco also spoke about the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan (ATSP) 2026-2030 as the lead country coordinator. That plan promotes a sustainable and resilient region through stronger cooperation, according to a press statement by ASEAN. ASEAN member states Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Timor Leste and Vietnam were present during the meeting, as were representatives from Russia, Japan, India and South Korea.

“The ATSP envisions a tourism landscape that not only stimulates economic progress but does so in a manner that is equitable and sustainable. Our focus extends beyond quantity to quality – prioritising convenience and safety in tourism, promoting longer stays and increased spending, all while safeguarding our natural resources and honouring our heritage and culture,” said Secretary Frasco. “United by a shared vision for the mutual prosperity of our nations, we perpetuate the notion that tourism is a force for good: transforming lives, sustaining livelihoods, forging friendships, creating memories etched in the hearts of all who come upon our streets and shores.”

Yusuf Hacısüleyman, Chairman of the ATSO Board of Directors, stated, ‘Our expectation for 2025 is even higher. If the ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine is achieved, there will be a significant increase in tourist numbers. We estimate it will reach 20 million. Even without a ceasefire, tourist numbers are expected to increase by 6 to 8 percent.’

17 MILLION TOURISTS IN 2024

Hacısüleyman reminded that last year the city hosted more than 17 million tourists, stating, ‘Antalya is the fourth city in the world to host the most tourists. Istanbul is first, followed by London and Dubai. Paris is after Antalya. We believe we should be in the top three.’

PER CAPITA INCOME IS $979

Hacısüleyman emphasized that Antalya contributes significantly to Turkey’s tourism revenue. He noted that 46% of the country’s overnight stays are in Antalya, with a per capita income of $979.

‘NUMBER OF RESIDENT FOREIGNERS IS 105,000’

Addressing the topic of resident foreigners in the city, Hacısüleyman reported that the number of resident foreigners has settled around 105,000 following the Russia-Ukraine War.

‘THIRD FASTEST GROWING PROVINCE IN POPULATION’

Hacısüleyman, noting that Antalya is the top destination for real estate sales to foreigners, stated, ‘We are the third fastest growing province in population. Each year, we see an increase equivalent to the size of the Korkuteli district. We receive migration both from within the country and from abroad.’

The effects of overtourism were significant topics of discussion in 2024, both in Turkey and globally. Tourist volumes exceeding capacity led to the depletion of natural resources, damage to historical heritage, and a decline in the quality of life for local populations at popular destinations. In Turkey, the impacts were particularly felt in places like Cappadocia, Antalya, and Istanbul, with a shift towards alternative tourism types emerging as a solution.

Agro-tourism should be considered a notable alternative in this context. Turkey’s rich agricultural heritage will turn agro-tourism into a tool that supports rural development and promotes a more balanced spread of tourism. Thematic events such as vineyard experiences in Cappadocia, tea and hazelnut harvesting tours in the Black Sea region, and olive festivals in the Aegean will both support environmental sustainability and offer unique experiences to tourists.

Globally, the year 2024 was marked by accelerated efforts to transition tourism into a sustainable model. Projects aimed at reducing carbon footprints, circular economy practices, and green tourism initiatives became fundamental elements shaping the future of the sector.

Digitalization was used as an important tool for analyzing tourist behaviors, increasing operational efficiency, and improving customer experience. However, while this transformation progressed more quickly in developed countries, developing countries faced adaptation challenges in digitalization and sustainability. Reducing the impacts of overtourism and laying a more sustainable foundation for tourism involved global strategies such as promoting destination management and alternative tourism types.

The year 2025 stands as a critical year in this transformation process for tourism, where the right steps must be taken. Firstly, sustainability and eco-friendly projects need to be prioritized more. Concrete steps should be taken in areas like energy efficiency, renewable energy use, and waste management, both in Turkey and globally. Investments in digital transformation should be accelerated, and especially the integration of small-scale businesses into this process should be facilitated. Investments in human resources should be increased; comprehensive programs should be implemented to retain skilled labor in the sector and to encourage youth participation in tourism. Specifically for Turkey, easing visa procedures and restructuring international promotion strategies will be significant steps to enhance the country’s competitiveness in tourism. In 2025, tourism policies should shift away from short-term profit-oriented and overtourism-supporting policies to focus more on sustainable approaches. Emphasizing the promotion of less-known regions and encouraging alternative tourism types is of great importance to reduce congestion in popular destinations.

Tourism policies should not only aim for economic gain but also prioritize contributing to local development and protecting cultural values. In this context, providing financial and moral support to medium-sized travel agencies that bring in smaller, quality tourist groups and/or organize tours to less-known domestic destinations will be a critical strategy. This support will both invigorate local economies and facilitate a more balanced spread of tourism. With such an approach, Turkey can overcome its internal challenges and achieve a strong position in the global tourism market. The year 2025 should be one where the foundation stones for sustainable growth and innovative solutions in the tourism sector are laid. We hope that this year marks the beginning of a transformation process in tourism that supports local development, preserves natural and cultural riches, and focuses on human-centered changes.

Aylin ÖZSAVAŞ

Istanbul Travel Agencies Promotion and Development Association (ISATAG)

Chairman of the Board

The partnership that began with İş Girişim Sermayesi’s initial investment in TatilBudur in 2015 was further strengthened by a capital increase in 2020. This investment process was an important step to enhance TatilBudur’s operational strength and further bolster its technology infrastructure. Most recently, with the transfer of a 24.06% management stake, İş Girişim Sermayesi’s share in TatilBudur reached 64.15%.

‘We will continue to contribute to its development and growth’

Kubilay Aykol, CEO of İş Girişim Sermayesi, emphasized that with the share transfer, İş Girişim Sermayesi, the venture capital arm of the Bank, has become the majority shareholder in Tatilbudur, an important player in the sector, and will actively continue to contribute to the company’s development and growth. Aykol also mentioned that this step aligns with İş Bankası’s prioritized sectors, including the tourism sector.

‘More leeway within our common goals…’

TatilBudur CEO Onur Otruş also expressed excitement about this development, noting that the share transfer provides significant opportunities for steady growth. Otruş stated, ‘We have been working together in harmony with İş Girişim Sermayesi for 10 years to develop the brand. We believe the new developments will create more leeway within our common goals. As TatilBudur, we will close the year with growth exceeding 40%, which is significant in industry dynamics. We believe that this change, occurring before 2025, will offer important opportunities to reinforce our position in the industry, accelerate our growth strategies, and reach a broader customer base.