Turkey issues decree for free public transport on Republic Day

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has signed a decree ensuring free public transportation in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir on October 29, 2026, to celebrate Republic Day.

In Istanbul, the free service will apply to the Marmaray line and the Gayrettepe-Istanbul Airport-Halkali metro line. In Ankara, the Başkentray line will also provide free travel for citizens on this day.

The decision was published in the Official Gazette on October 23, 2026, under Presidential Decree No. 11919. This decree also addresses the identification of individuals entitled to free or discounted goods and services from various public institutions and organizations.