Istanbul: A Global Attraction Center in the Making, Says Özak GYO
Istanbul, May 5, 2026 – Özak GYO, a leading real estate investment trust, shared its 2026 targets, ongoing investments, and predictions on Turkey’s regional potential during a recent press meeting. Ahmet Akbalık, Chairman of the Board of Özak GYO, highlighted a historic window of opportunity for Turkey, stating, “In this period of increasing global uncertainties, capital is now looking for a safe haven. Turkey, with its young population, urbanization needs, and depth in the real estate sector, is the strongest candidate in this picture. If we can combine our financial center identity with our transit trade center capacity, we can transform Istanbul into a global attraction center.”
Akbalık’s remarks underscore a strategic vision for Istanbul to leverage its unique geographical and demographic advantages to become a magnet for international investment and tourism. He emphasized that the current global economic climate, characterized by various uncertainties, makes Turkey an appealing destination for capital seeking stability and growth opportunities.
2026: A Year of Deliveries for Özak GYO
Fatih Keresteci, General Manager of Özak GYO, announced that 2026 would be a significant “delivery year” for the company. He confirmed that Özak Duyu Göktürk, Özak Dragos, and Hayat City Mahmutbey projects are scheduled for completion and handover this year. These projects are expected to contribute significantly to Istanbul’s urban development and real estate market.
The completion of these projects aligns with Özak GYO’s broader strategy to meet the growing demand for modern housing and commercial spaces in Istanbul, further supporting the city’s urbanization needs. The company’s commitment to timely deliveries reinforces its position as a reliable developer in the Turkish real estate sector.
Turkey’s Potential in a Global Context
Akbalık elaborated on Turkey’s inherent strengths, particularly its young and dynamic population, which provides a robust workforce and a continuous need for housing and infrastructure development. The country’s deep real estate sector offers a wide range of investment opportunities, from residential to commercial and hospitality projects.
The chairman also touched upon Istanbul’s potential to serve as a financial hub, a role that can be significantly enhanced by its existing capacity as a transit trade center. This dual advantage, he believes, can create a powerful synergy that attracts global businesses and investors, solidifying Istanbul’s status on the international stage.
Future Outlook and Strategic Initiatives
Özak GYO’s strategic outlook for 2026 and beyond focuses on capitalizing on these national advantages. The company aims to continue its investment in high-quality projects that not only meet market demands but also contribute to the sustainable development of Istanbul.
The emphasis on transforming Istanbul into a global attraction center is not merely an economic ambition but also a vision for enhancing the city’s cultural and social vibrancy. By attracting more international capital and talent, Istanbul can further enrich its diverse fabric and become a more competitive global city.
The press meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of Özak GYO’s commitment to contributing to Turkey’s economic growth and Istanbul’s urban transformation, positioning the city as a key player in the global economy. The company’s ongoing projects and future plans are set to play a crucial role in realizing this ambitious vision.
Source: sabah.com.tr
