Turkey Named 2026 Turkic World Tourism Capital, Ankara to Host Year-Long Cultural Celebrations

The Voice of Chandigarh | Travel TRade Reporter

Turkey has been officially designated the 2026 Turkic World Tourism Capital, with Ankara, the nation’s capital, selected to lead year-long celebrations highlighting shared Turkic heritage, culture, and tourism potential.

The announcement was made by the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), marking a significant recognition of Ankara’s historical, cultural, and modern identity within the Turkic world. The designation aims to strengthen cultural cooperation, promote tourism, and deepen ties among Turkic-speaking nations.

As part of the title, Ankara will host a series of international cultural events throughout 2026, including music and dance festivals, art exhibitions, academic forums, heritage tours, gastronomy showcases, and tourism workshops. Officials have also unveiled a special “Ankara 2026” logo and event roadmap to support global promotion.

Authorities emphasized that Ankara’s rich past — spanning ancient Anatolian civilizations, the Seljuk and Ottoman eras, and the foundation of the Turkish Republic — makes it a symbolic and strategic choice for the honor. The city is expected to welcome visitors from across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and beyond.

The Turkic World Tourism Capital title is awarded on a rotational basis, with previous honorees including cities in Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Kyrgyzstan. The initiative is designed to boost regional tourism, preserve shared cultural values, and enhance international visibility.

Tourism experts believe the designation will significantly increase visitor arrivals to Ankara, stimulate cultural exchange, and contribute to economic growth in Turkey’s tourism and hospitality sectors ahead of the 2026 season.