× Home Properties Blogs About Us Contact Us FAQ Services
For Seekers For Owners Login
AR
× Commercial Investment Residential Investment Helpfull Informations
× Tapumm Real Estate Services
investment
Publish Date: 12-Jan, 2024

The Best Investment Opportunities in Istanbul for Foreigners

The best investment opportunities in Istanbul for foreigners ranging from upscale residential properties in prestigious neighborhoods to thriving commercial districts and a dynamic tourism sector that creates demand for hospitality-related investments. 

The following are different types of lucrative investment opportunities in Istanbul:

1- Residential Properties

1. Overview of Popular Neighborhoods for Residential Investment

  • Bosphorus Area:

- Exclusive and prestigious neighborhoods along the Bosphorus.

- High-end residential properties with scenic views.

- Attracts affluent local and international buyers.

  • Beyoglu and Taksim:

- Dynamic and vibrant areas with a mix of historical and modern architecture.

- Trendy cafes, shops, and cultural attractions.

- Increasing demand for luxury apartments.

  • Levent and Maslak:

- Major business districts with a rising demand for upscale residences.

- Proximity to offices, shopping malls, and international schools.

- Popular among expatriates and corporate professionals.

2. Analysis of Property Types

  • Apartments:

- Dominant property type, ranging from modern high-rises to historic buildings.

- Consideration of factors like size, amenities, and accessibility.

  • Villas and Houses:

- Exclusive properties with gardens and private spaces.

- Attraction for those seeking a suburban lifestyle.

  • Investment Potential:

- Evaluation of rental yields and potential for capital appreciation.

- Consideration of future development plans and infrastructure projects.

2- Commercial Properties

1. Overview of Commercial Districts and Business Centers

  • Sisli:

- Major commercial and financial hub.

- Headquarters of various businesses and multinational corporations.

- High demand for office spaces.

  • Atasehir:

- Emerging business district on the Asian side.

- Modern offices, shopping centers, and residential complexes.

- Strategic location for corporate investments.

2. Opportunities in Retail Spaces, Offices, and Mixed-Use Developments

  • Retail Spaces:

- Prospects in popular shopping districts like Istiklal Avenue.

- Demand for retail spaces in shopping malls and high-traffic areas.

  • Offices:

- Growing demand for modern office spaces, particularly in central districts.

- Consideration of tech and innovation hubs.

  • Mixed-Use Developments:

- Integration of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

- Appeal to a diverse range of tenants and investors.

C. Tourism and Hospitality

1. Overview of the Thriving Tourism Sector in Istanbul

  • Historical Attractions:

- Presence of iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

- Continuous influx of tourists throughout the year.

  • Cultural Events and Festivals:

- Istanbul hosts various cultural events and festivals, attracting international visitors.

- Vibrant arts and entertainment scene contribute to tourism.

2. Investment Opportunities in Hotels, Serviced Apartments, or Vacation Rentals

  • Hotels:

- Upscale hotels catering to luxury travelers.

- Mid-range and boutique hotels targeting a broader market.

  • Serviced Apartments:

- Increasing popularity for more extended stays.

- Attraction for business travelers and families.

  • Vacation Rentals:

- Opportunities in short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb.

- Consideration of regulatory guidelines for vacation rentals.

The Development of Mega Projects in Istanbul and Their Impacts on Real Estate Investment 

Mega projects like the Istanbul New Airport and Canal Istanbul have the potential to significantly impact real estate values and investment opportunities. These developments can bring economic growth and increased demand. Through monitoring the progression of these mega projects and understanding their broader impact on the local real estate market is crucial for maximizing investment potential.

Istanbul New Airport

Istanbul New Airport is one of the largest airport projects globally, designed to serve as a major international hub.

Regarding the capacity, it's planned to handle millions of passengers annually, providing enhanced connectivity.

The positive impacts of Istanbul new airport on real estate values and investment potential include:

  • Increased Demand: Proximity to the new airport boosts property demand, especially for commercial and hospitality sectors.

  • Economic Growth: Stimulates economic activities in the surrounding areas, attracting businesses and investors.

Canal Istanbul

 Canal Istanbul aims to create an artificial shipping channel connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara.

The Canal is intended to relieve congestion in the Bosporus Strait and prevent environmental risks.

The positive impacts of Canal Istanbul on real estate values and investment potential include:

  • Strategic Locations: Properties along the canal may experience increased value due to improved accessibility.

  • Urban Renewal: Spurs urban development and renewal in the vicinity.

What Are Government Incentives for Foreign Investors in Turkey?

Basically, government incentives are designed to encourage and facilitate foreign direct investment across various sectors. These incentives aim to boost economic growth, enhance competitiveness, and attract international capital. They include:

1- Investment Support and Promotion Agency of Turkey (ISPAT):

  • Single Point of Contact: ISPAT serves as a single point of contact for foreign investors, providing comprehensive information and support throughout the investment process.

2- Investment Zones and Free Zones:

  • Strategic Zones: Turkey has designated specific investment zones with strategic importance, offering tailored incentives.

  • Free Zones: Foreign investors in free zones benefit from tax exemptions, simplified customs procedures, and reduced regulatory requirements.

3- Tax Incentives:

  • Tax Reductions: Certain regions and industries may qualify for reduced corporate income tax rates.

  • Customs Duty Exemptions: Exemptions or reductions on customs duties for specific imported goods used in production.

4- Employment Support:

  • Social Security Premium Support: Incentives related to employer social security premiums to encourage job creation.

  • Training Support: Financial support for employee training programs.

5- R&D and Innovation Incentives:

  • Tax Credits: Tax incentives for companies engaged in research and development activities.

  • Technology Development Zones: Specialized zones with additional incentives for technology-focused investments.

6- Energy and Environmental Incentives:

  • Renewable Energy: Incentives for investments in renewable energy projects.

  • Environmental Compliance: Support for environmentally friendly projects and compliance with green standards.

7- Real Estate Investment Incentives:

  • Urban Transformation Projects: Incentives for investors participating in urban renewal and transformation projects.

  • Affordable Housing: Support for developers involved in affordable housing projects.

8- Legal Support and Investor Protections:

  • International Arbitration: Legal mechanisms for dispute resolution through international arbitration.

  • Equal Treatment: Foreign investors are often granted equal treatment as domestic investors, ensuring a level playing field.

9- Infrastructure Support:

  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Opportunities for foreign investors to participate in infrastructure projects through PPPs.

  • Customized Incentives: Tailored incentives for investments in critical infrastructure sectors.


Istanbul presents a myriad of investment opportunities across residential and commercial real estate, tourism, and infrastructure development. Key residential areas such as the Bosphorus, Beyoglu, and Levent offer diverse options for property investment. Thriving commercial districts like Sisli and Atasehir, coupled with mixed-use developments, contribute to Istanbul's appeal for commercial real estate investors. The city's booming tourism sector, marked by historical attractions and cultural events, creates opportunities in hospitality, hotels, serviced apartments, and vacation rentals. Additionally, mega projects such as the Istanbul New Airport and Canal Istanbul significantly impact real estate values, providing potential for long-term investment growth.