Turkey is emerging as a top alternative destination for Russian travellers after cancellations of holiday bookings to Gulf countries for March and April. According to the Russian Tour Operators Association, demand for travel to the Gulf region has dropped following recent geopolitical developments.
Mass Cancellations Impact Regional Tourism
Recently released industry travel and tourism data indicates that cancellations have affected not only March but also April bookings, with Russian tourists increasingly reconsidering travel plans to the region.
Tour operators have responded by offering rebooking options rather than refunds, redirecting travellers toward alternative destinations. Countries including Turkey, Egypt, and Thailand have emerged as the primary alternatives for Russian tourists looking to rebook their original holidays.
Turkey, in particular, continues to benefit from strong brand recognition within the Russian tourism market, where it has long been one of the most popular international travel destinations for citizens from Russia.
Russia Remains Key Source Market
Russian visitors remain the largest source of foreign tourists to Turkey, with approximately 6.9 million arrivals recorded last year, according to official tourism data. They were followed by visitors from Germany and the United Kingdom, supporting Turkey’s position as a leading global tourism hub.
In total, data shows that the country welcomed a record 52.78 million foreign tourists in the year 2025, while total visitor numbers, including Turkish citizens living abroad and coming back to visit Turkey, reached nearly 64 million.
Turkish Tourism Outlook Strengthens
The shift in travel patterns is expected to further support Turkey’s tourism sector, particularly during the spring and early summer periods. With strong infrastructure, diverse destinations, and competitive pricing, Turkey is positioned to capture redirected demand from international markets.
Tourism analysts say that continued geopolitical uncertainty within the Gulf region, could accelerate this trend, strengthening Turkey’s role as a stable and attractive destination for global travellers and tourists.
Cameron Deggin 
Founder & CEO, Property Turkey
Cameron Deggin is Founder and CEO of Property Turkey. A former finance professional and FCCA-qualified accountant, he founded the company in 2001 after recognising Turkey’s investment potential. With more than two decades analysing Turkish real estate, Cameron regularly advises international investors and is quoted by media including the Financial Times and BBC.
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