Official Decision: Free Public Transportation for Ramadan Bayram
Istanbul, Turkey – A significant decision has been made regarding public transportation in Istanbul during the upcoming Ramadan Bayram holiday. According to a decree published in the Official Gazette with the signature of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, several public transportation lines will be free of charge from Thursday, March 19, until Sunday, March 22, 2026.
This initiative aims to facilitate travel for citizens during the religious holiday, which is a time for family visits and celebrations. The decision, which came into effect on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, was widely anticipated and welcomed by residents.
Which Lines Will Be Free?
The decree specifies that the following public transportation services will be free during the four-day Bayram period:
- Başkentray
- Marmaray
- İZBAN
- Sirkeci-Kazlıçeşme Rail System Line
- Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport-Arnavutköy Metro Line
These lines are crucial arteries of Istanbul’s public transport network, connecting various parts of the city and its surrounding areas. The free service is expected to ease traffic congestion and provide a more convenient travel experience for millions of people.
Background and Previous Practices
The practice of offering free public transportation during major religious holidays like Ramadan Bayram and Eid al-Adha is not new in Turkey. It is a recurring measure implemented by the government to support citizens and encourage participation in holiday traditions. This year’s decision reaffirms the commitment to making public services accessible during festive periods.
The announcement comes amidst other news related to the holiday, including increased market inspections to prevent price gouging and additional flights by AJet for the Ramadan Bayram and mid-term break, indicating a comprehensive approach to managing the holiday period.
Impact on Citizens and Tourism
The free transportation will undoubtedly benefit both Istanbul residents and tourists visiting the city during the Bayram. It will allow families to travel more freely to visit relatives and friends, and it will also make it easier for people to access various cultural and recreational sites without the added cost of transportation.
The decision is also seen as a move to stimulate local commerce and tourism, as easier access to different parts of the city can encourage more people to engage in shopping, dining, and sightseeing activities.
Looking Ahead
As the Ramadan Bayram approaches, Istanbul is preparing for a period of heightened activity and celebration. The free public transportation is a key element in ensuring that the holiday is enjoyable and accessible for everyone. Authorities will likely monitor the impact of this measure on traffic flow and passenger numbers to assess its effectiveness.
