Turkey achieves remarkable increase in GCC tourists' figures and wins World travel award

Number of tourists from U.A.E increased 373.29%, number of tourists from Bahrain increased 172.62%, number of tourists from Kuwait increased 330.92% and number of tourists from Qatar increased 595.69%.

These incredible figures, also taking to the consideration that the month of Ramadan this year fell on the month of August, are evident that the numbers of tourists from Middle East region for 2012 have been remarkable and have contributed to Turkish success.

Turkey remains a strong performer when it comes to tourism. There are many reasons that travelers from Middle East region choose Turkey as the destination of choice. Some of the few of course are the variety of tourist's attractions and the cultural similarities between Turkey and the region. Mild weather conditions and rich history of Turkey attract many tourists from all over the world and particularly from Middle East region and GCC Countries.

Mr. Sedat Gönüllüoğlu Cultural & Information Attaché from Turkish Tourism & Cultural Office in Dubai commented on the increased numbers, "We at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism are very pleased with the current increase in numbers from Middle East region. The numbers reflect the strong cultural bond between Turkey and GCC countries. We in the Dubai office will continue to work to strengthen our relationship."

Mr. Gönüllüoğlu also added, what in his opinion has contributed toward such an amazing increase in numbers of travelers in August: "I believe that the big reason behind many GCC residents chose Turkey as a destination over the month of Ramadan is cultural and religious closeness. GCC tourists that travelled to Turkey in August would have appreciated the Turkish way of celebrating the holly month; also they were able to experience Turkey's rich history and culture that has many connections with Arabic culture."

Turkey is one the fastest developing tourist destinations in the world, now ranking sixth in terms of number of foreign arrivals, with a total of 31.4 million foreign visitors in 2011.

Turkey has been rewarded with several awards and certificates of recognition as a result of the considerable efforts of the Turkish Tourism Board, such as the World Travel Award and Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence.

The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism has been named Europe's Leading Tourist Board in 2012 by World Travel Awards. World Travel Awards (WTA) ceremony hosted at the new Conrad Algarve, Portugal on Saturday 6th October 2012.

The awards also acknowledged Turkey's hotel sector, with awards for Europe's Leading Luxury Hotel (Mardan Palace, Antalya), Europe's Leading Luxury Resort (Cornelia Diamond Golf Resort & Spa, Belek) and Europe's Leading New Luxury Hotel (Angel's Peninsula, Marmaris).

A packed delegation of VIPs, senior tourism figures and international media travelled from 35 nations to attend the event, which was held in partnership with Conrad Algarve and Turismo do Algarve.

As a holiday destination with universal appeal, Turkey combines fascinating culture and culinary delights with great weather, stunning scenery and warm hospitality.