Istanbul: Trkiye is a ‘major tourism powerhouse’ with a ‘rich history and culture,’ said Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), highlighting the country’s strategic value as a global travel hub. Hamid told Anadolu that while he once considered Trkiye part of Asia, he now sees it as something broader. ‘Trkiye is like the world, because it is the bridge between Asia and Europe,’ he said. He emphasized the country’s appeal for both leisure and business travelers, pointing to Istanbul as its top destination. ‘It is the gateway where you have the access – there are thousands of hotels in the city, attractions from modern and new culture, the cuisine, the people,’ he said.
According to Anadolu Agency, Hamid noted that while Istanbul dominates tourist arrivals, many other cities across Trkiye also attract visitors, depending on their interests. ‘If somebody likes to fly, then they will go to Cappadocia. I like golf and I want to go to Antalya,’ he said.
Trkiye’s connectivity remains one of its greatest tourism advantages, Hamid said, particularly with growing demand from across Asia. ‘The Indian market is definitely the closest to Trkiye, (and) the Middle East as well, but also the bigger market is from the Asian side, I mean, Southeast Asia and North Asia, (such as) Japan, China, Korea, Hong Kong and so forth,’ he said. Istanbul’s rise as a global aviation hub plays a central role in this dynamic. ‘Istanbul in particular is really becoming one of the major hubs in the world,’ he said. ‘Everyone that is flying from different parts of Asia say that all the flights on the Turkish Airlines are full.’
Hamid highlighted that a significant number of travelers are not only visiting Trkiye for holidays but also extending their trips to Europe and other destinations due to Trkiye’s status as a hub. Accessibility is crucial for sustainable tourism growth, and Hamid praised Trkiye’s unique blend of offerings. ‘The key is to have accessibility,’ he said.
He also spoke about his personal admiration for the country. ‘I love a lot of the architecture, the malls, from the Blue Mosque, Haghia Sophia. Trkiye is very rich in history and culture, not only from what I see every time I come here, but also from the stories that you get.’ Hamid reflected on how his perception of the country changed after visiting. ‘We always thought Trkiye is part of Asia, but Trkiye is not Asia – Trkiye is like the world,’ he said.
Hamid concluded by saying PATA will continue working with Trkiye Tourism and Development Agency (TGA) on joint initiatives. TGA has been a member of the association for several years.