# Didim international tourism development initiatives

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/didim-international-tourism-development-initiatives
> Updated: 2026-10-31T08:02:00.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 3.

In late October 2026, the Didim district of Aydın, Turkey, hosted several international events focused on expanding its tourism sector.

At the World Sister Cities and Tourism Summit, Mayor Hatice Gençay presented a vision for the municipality centered on a ‘3T model’ that integrates history, tourism, and agriculture. Gençay emphasized the need to preserve historical sites such as Miletus and the Temple of Apollo while improving local infrastructure, cleanliness, and transportation to support sustainable growth.

Following this, the 9th International MICE and Wedding Tourism Forum (IMWF 2026) convened industry professionals from 45 countries. The three day program facilitated more than 3,500 one on one business meetings among agency owners, hotel managers, and decision makers. The forum reached record levels for both exhibitor numbers and geographic diversity.

During the event, industry experts discussed the future of global tourism and the competition between established and emerging destinations. Sabbas Joseph, co-founder of Wizcraft Group and the International Indian Film Academy, emphasized the importance of creative approaches and strong partnerships. Erkan Yıldırım, CEO of Rixos Egypt Hotels, highlighted the necessity of offering diverse experiences beyond luxury accommodations to build traveler trust and ensure repeat visits.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-31: International MICE and Wedding Forum held in Didim

The 9th International MICE and Wedding Forum in Didim hosted over 3,500 business meetings with participants from 45 countries to discuss global tourism trends.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/international-mice-and-wedding-forum-held-in-didim

### 2026-10-29: Didim hosts 9th International MICE and Wedding Tourism Forum

The 9th International MICE and Wedding Forum in Didim, Turkey, gathers industry leaders from 45 countries to discuss global tourism trends and destination wedding opportunities.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/didim-hosts-9th-international-mice-and-wedding-tourism-forum

### 2026-10-25: Didim Mayor outlines international tourism vision at global summit

Didim Mayor Hatice Gençay presented a new ‘3T model’ for tourism at the World Sister Cities and Tourism Summit, focusing on integrating history, agriculture, and sustainable urban development.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/didim-mayor-outlines-international-tourism-vision-at-global-summit

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Cite as: Didim international tourism development initiatives. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/didim-international-tourism-development-initiatives