Discover Istanbul

Istanbul generates approximately 25-28% of Turkey's total GDP, making it the country's undisputed economic capital. With over 15 million inhabitants, the metropolitan area houses Turkey's largest companies, major banks, and serves as the regional headquarters for international corporations across industries.

The city hosts the headquarters of hundreds of Turkey's major companies, including industrial giants like Koç Holding, Sabancı Holding, and Doğuş Group. Major international firms including Microsoft, Google, Coca-Cola, and Unilever have established their Turkish operations here.

Istanbul's Borsa Istanbul stock exchange is among the world's fastest-growing markets, while the city's banking sector, led by institutions like İş Bankası, Garanti BBVA, and Akbank, manages the majority of Turkey's financial transactions.

Istanbul's unique position straddling Europe and Asia makes it an unparalleled gateway for international trade. The city provides direct access to markets spanning 1.5 billion people within a 4-hour flight radius, covering Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa.

The Bosphorus strait remains one of the world's most crucial maritime passages, with over 41,000 vessels transiting annually, carrying millions of tons of cargo including energy supplies. Istanbul's ports handle millions of TEU containers yearly, making it a vital link in international supply chains.

Istanbul Airport, one of the world's largest, connects to over 275 destinations across 120 countries. The city serves as Turkish Airlines' global hub, offering businesses unmatched connectivity to emerging markets in Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

Istanbul boasts world-class business infrastructure with modern financial districts in Levent, Maslak, and the emerging Istanbul Financial Center. These areas feature cutting-edge office complexes, conference facilities, and business services that rival global financial capitals.

The city hosts over 200 international conferences and trade fairs annually at venues like the Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bureau facilities. Major events include the Istanbul International Trade Fair, CNR Expo, and specialized industry exhibitions that attract global participants.

Istanbul's telecommunications infrastructure supports seamless global connectivity, while government initiatives like the Istanbul Financial Center project aim to position the city as a regional financial hub connecting European, Asian, and African markets.