Istanbul, a captivating city straddling two continents, has been chosen as the host for the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Annual Summit 2025. The event, scheduled for March 2025, will bring together tourism industry leaders from across the globe to discuss the future of travel in one of the world’s most vibrant destinations. The announcement was made during the recent PATA board meeting in Bangkok, Thailand.
Istanbul offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it an ideal backdrop for the summit. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Dolmabahçe Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. These sites highlight Istanbul’s rich cultural legacy and its pivotal role in global tourism.
Turkey has become a major player in the global tourism market, welcoming over 56.7 million tourists in 2023 alone. The country’s commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, evident in its rigorous certification programs for accommodation facilities, has been a driving force behind its growth. Istanbul’s booming economy and strategic location make it a dynamic hub for tourism professionals seeking to explore emerging trends and opportunities.
The PATA Annual Summit 2025 will provide a platform for valuable discussions on the future of tourism, with a focus on sustainable growth, responsible practices, and enhancing the value of tourism in the region. The event will also feature plenary and breakout sessions, allowing participants to engage with leading figures in the industry and explore innovative solutions to the challenges facing the travel sector.
Turkish Airlines, the country’s flagship carrier, has been confirmed as the Official Airline Partner for the summit. Their involvement underscores their commitment to promoting Turkey’s rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. The airline’s award-winning service and renowned hospitality promise to enhance the overall experience for attendees.
The PATA Annual Summit 2025 is expected to draw participants from around the world, offering unparalleled networking opportunities. Istanbul, as the host city, will not only showcase its rich cultural heritage but also its commitment to the future of tourism. With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, the city is poised to inspire discussions that will shape the industry for years to come.
“I am humbled to take the PATA Annual Summit 2025 to a city that stands on two continents – Asia and Europe, as PATA strives to grow within the Asia Pacific region and globally.” stated PATA CEO, expressing his confidence in the annual gathering. “This Summit is important for the travel & tourism fraternity to shape a resilient, responsible, and reimagined future in a sustainable manner.”
İsmail Bütün, General Manager of the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency, echoed the sentiment, stating, “As the Turkish Tourism Board, we are excited to be hosting PATA’s 2025 Annual Summit in İstanbul. The Asia-Pacific region is amongst our key growth markets and the Pacific Asia Travel Association embodies a great membership base of hospitality, aviation, and travel industry partners in this territory. We can’t wait to host the esteemed members of PATA in İstanbul soon and show them the best of Turkish hospitality.”
Ahmet Olmuştur, Chief Commercial Officer of Turkish Airlines, expressed the airline’s enthusiasm for the event, saying, “As Türkiye’s flag carrier, it is our mission to support efforts that highlight our country’s vast tourist attractions and potential. The PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul will bring together tourism professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region, fostering a collaborative atmosphere and creating a platform for discussing the future of tourism. With our award-winning service and renowned hospitality, we are excited to offer attendees a memorable journey to our beloved city of Istanbul.”
Further information regarding the PATA Annual Summit 2025 will be released in the coming months as preparations for this highly anticipated event in Istanbul continue. The summit promises to be a key moment for the tourism industry, with Turkish Airlines playing a crucial role in ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all participants.
