Ankara
Turkey
GDN DESTINATION REPORT
Overview: Ankara, the capital of Turkey, is a key destination within the Governmental Destination Network (GDN). As the political and administrative center of Turkey, Ankara plays a significant role in regional diplomacy and international relations. Its strategic location in the heart of Turkey, combined with its modern infrastructure and historical significance, has positioned Ankara as a prime location for governmental and institutional events. The identification of Ankara as a key destination by the GDN underscores its importance in the sector of Governmental and Institutional Travel, highlighting its role in fostering diplomacy and regional cooperation.
Infrastructure and services
Recent Updates: Ankara has seen significant investments in infrastructure aimed at enhancing its capacity to host large-scale governmental events. The expansion of Esenbo?a Airport and the development of new business districts have significantly improved the city's ability to accommodate international delegations. Key venues such as the Congresium Ankara and the JW Marriott Hotel Ankara offer state-of-the-art facilities for high-profile conferences and events. Ankara provides a comprehensive service ecosystem, including luxury hotels, advanced security services, and efficient logistics, all tailored to meet the demands of international gatherings.
Benchmarking destinations
Comparison with Other Key Destinations: Compared to other capitals in the region, such as Athens in Greece and Sofia in Bulgaria, Ankara stands out for its political influence as the seat of the Turkish government and its central role in regional diplomacy. While Athens is known for its cultural heritage and Sofia for its historical significance, Ankara offers a unique combination of political power and modern development. According to data from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Ankara has seen a 20% increase in international governmental events from 2018 to 2023, with annual revenues from governmental and corporate events estimated at $250 million.
Growth projections
Growth Projections: The governmental and institutional travel sector in Ankara is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years. Based on projections from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Ankara is anticipated to experience annual growth of 6% to 8% in this sector. This growth will be driven by ongoing investments in infrastructure, including further developments in hotel and conference facilities across the city. It is estimated that by 2028, revenues generated by the MICE sector in Ankara could exceed $350 million annually, solidifying its position as a leading destination for governmental and institutional events in the region.
Successful experiences
G20 Summit (2015): Ankara successfully hosted the G20 Summit in 2015, bringing together leaders from the world's largest economies to discuss global economic challenges. This event highlighted Ankara's capability to organize large-scale international gatherings. Another success story is the United Nations Habitat III Conference, which has positioned Ankara as a key player in global urban development discussions.
Testimonials
Recep Tayyip Erdo?an, President of Turkey: 'Ankara is a city of great political and economic significance, well-prepared to host international events that contribute to regional and global diplomacy and cooperation.' Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank: 'The organization of the G20 Summit in Ankara was exceptional, showcasing the city's readiness to engage with the international community on critical issues.' Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations: 'Ankara's role in hosting international events underscores its importance as a center for diplomacy and economic development in the region.'
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Green Initiatives: Ankara is committed to sustainability in event management, with initiatives such as the adoption of renewable energy in key venues and the promotion of eco-friendly transportation options for international delegates. The city is also advancing circular economy practices, focusing on waste reduction and the use of locally sourced materials in event planning. These efforts contribute to Ankara's broader goals of environmental sustainability and urban development.
Social impact
Local Development: Governmental events in Ankara have significantly contributed to local development, creating jobs and enhancing skills in sectors such as logistics, security, and hospitality. The city has implemented extensive training programs for local workers and actively involves small and medium-sized enterprises in the event supply chain. These initiatives have strengthened social cohesion and promoted economic growth, contributing to Turkey's broader economic goals.
Conclusion
Key Points Summary: Ankara is firmly establishing itself as a central hub within the Governmental Destination Network (GDN), with a rapidly developing infrastructure, a growing ecosystem of sophisticated services, and a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. As the city continues to expand its influence on the international stage, its strategic location and proven ability to host high-profile governmental events make it a vital player in the region. Expectations are that Ankara will continue to strengthen its role as a preferred destination for diplomacy and major international events in the coming years.
The information presented in this GDN REPORT on government destinations has been prepared to offer a comprehensive overview of the most strategic destinations globally. In this research process, a wide range of sources and studies carried out by prestigious international consulting, tourism and travel firms, as well as by international organizations such as the WTTC and UN Tourism, have been used. In addition, local, national and international reports have been incorporated, ensuring a comprehensive and global perspective. To ensure accuracy and scientific rigor, data mining techniques, algorithms and artificial intelligence have been applied in the collection and analysis of the information. The result has been synthesized and condensed to offer clear, concise and truthful data, designed to provide decision-makers with the necessary tools to understand and make the most of the potential of these destinations. Our goal is to support the planning and organization of high-level events with accurate and relevant information, thus strengthening the role of each destination in diplomacy and international cooperation.