In a remarkable achievement that solidifies its place on the global tourism map, Antalya has been named the first-ever winner of the D-8 Tourism City Award for 2025. This historic milestone was announced by the Developing-8 (D-8) Organization for Economic Cooperation, recognizing Antalya as a trailblazer in sustainable tourism, cultural heritage preservation, and international cooperation among D-8 member states. Antalya had previously been on the world stage with the election of Ormana Village as the ‘Best Tourism Village’ by the World Tourism Organisation. This award shows that Antalya successfully implements the sustainable tourism model not only in the city centre but also in the surrounding villages.

A New Era of Recognition

The D-8 Tourism City Award was established to honor cities that demonstrate exceptional growth, innovation, and collaboration in the tourism sector. Antalya stood out among all nominees for its dynamic approach to hospitality, its seamless blend of natural beauty and historical richness, and its ability to welcome millions of visitors while staying committed to sustainable development.

Why Antalya?

Nestled on Turkey’s picturesque Mediterranean coast, Antalya has long been one of the country’s most beloved destinations. Its turquoise beaches, ancient ruins like those of Perge and Aspendos, luxurious resorts, and world-class cuisine have made it a favorite not only among European tourists but increasingly with visitors from across the D-8 countries, which include Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey.

In recent years, Antalya has:

• Embraced green tourism initiatives, including eco-resorts and renewable energy adoption in the hospitality sector.

• Invested in digital transformation to improve visitor experience through smart tourism infrastructure.

• Promoted intercultural dialogue and partnerships through international events, cultural festivals, and tourism fairs.

What This Means for the Future

Winning the D-8 Tourism City Award is more than just a title—it’s a gateway to stronger economic ties, increased visibility, and deeper cooperation between D-8 member states. It positions Antalya as a model city for others to emulate, and it reaffirms Turkey’s growing influence in shaping the future of global tourism.

This achievement also brings opportunities for local businesses, travel operators, and cultural institutions to connect with a wider international audience, fostering innovation and inclusivity in the travel experience.

Looking Ahead

As Antalya steps into 2025 as the face of D-8 tourism excellence, it carries with it a responsibility and an opportunity: to continue evolving as a city that welcomes the world while preserving its heritage and protecting its environment.

Whether you’re planning your next trip or looking for inspiration in global tourism leadership, Antalya is the city to watch—and now, officially, the city to celebrate.