How to Travel Safely to COP31 in Antalya, Turkey

How to Travel Safely to COP31 in Antalya, Turkey

The 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31) takes place in Antalya, Turkey from 9–20 November 2026, bringing together tens of thousands of delegates, government officials, business leaders, and climate activists. This guide provides practical security advice for executives and their protection teams based on current threat assessments and protective security best practices.

Antalya is a major tourist destination on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast with modern infrastructure and established security services. While Turkey presents certain political and operational challenges, these can be effectively managed through proper planning and adherence to protective security protocols.

Current Travel Advisory Status

• UK (FCDO): No restrictions on travel to Antalya; advises against travel within 10km of the Syrian border.
• US State Department: Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) for Turkey overall; Antalya is not subject to additional restrictions.

This guidance supplements your organization’s duty of care obligations and should be adapted based on individual threat profiles and operational requirements.

Quick Reference Guide for Executives

Before You Go

Documentation

• Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates.
• Most nationalities receive a 90-day visa on arrival.
• Register with your embassy before travel.
• Obtain comprehensive travel insurance including medical evacuation.

Security Preparation

• Review and delete any social media posts critical of Turkey (this can be a criminal offense).
• Update all devices and enable encryption.
• Plan VPN access for all internet usage.
• Share your detailed itinerary with your security team.

Travel Advisories

• UK: No restrictions for Antalya; warns against all travel to within 10km of the Syrian border.
• US: Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) overall; Level 4 for border provinces.
• Antalya remains a major tourist destination with no specific travel warnings.

In-Country: Key Security Rules

1. Transportation

• Use only pre-arranged vehicles from vetted providers.
• Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight.
• Allow up to three times the normal travel time during COP31.

2. Accommodation

• Prefer international chain hotels.
• Identify emergency exits immediately upon arrival.
• Use the room safe for passports and valuables.
• Assume room conversations may be monitored.

3. Communications

Important: Turkish law criminalizes criticism of Turkey, the government, or President Erdoğan. Foreign nationals have been prosecuted for social media posts.

• Use a VPN for all internet activity.
• Avoid hotel Wi-Fi for sensitive work.
• Do not post political commentary on social media.
• Avoid photographing government buildings or security forces.

4. Health

Counterfeit Alcohol Warning: at least 160 people reported dead and 230 hospitalized in 2025 due to methanol poisioning, with risk present even at legitimate-appearing establishments.

• Drink only sealed bottles that you open yourself.
• Avoid mixed drinks.
• Use hotel bars where possible.

Additional Health Advice:

• Drink bottled water.
• Know earthquake emergency procedures.
• Emergency medical services: 112.

5. Personal Security

• Maintain a low profile.
• Avoid demonstrations (illegal without permits).
• Do not discuss sensitive matters in public spaces.
• Keep electronic devices secure at all times.

If Something Goes Wrong

Detained by Police

• State clearly: “I want to contact my embassy.”
• UK Embassy: +90 312 455 3344
• US Embassy: +90 312 294 0000

Medical Emergency

• Call emergency services: 112
• Seek treatment at a private hospital (e.g., Medical Park, Memorial, or Liv Hospital).
• Contact your insurance provider immediately.

Encountering a Protest

• Leave the area immediately.
• Do not take photos.
• Seek shelter in a hotel or nearby building.

Cultural & Legal Compliance

Do Not

• Criticize Turkey or its government publicly.
• Overstay your visa.
• Possess drugs (cannabis is illegal).
• Photograph military or sensitive government sites.
• Join unauthorized demonstrations.

Do

• Dress conservatively for business settings.
• Respect local Muslim customs.
• Remove shoes when entering mosques.

When to Consider Professional Security

You may wish to arrange professional security support if you:

• Have a high public profile.
• Work in a controversial sector such as fossil fuels.
• Have been previously targeted.
• Are traveling with family members.

Emergency Contacts

• Police: 155
• Ambulance: 112
• Fire: 110
• Your Embassy: Add before travel
• Your Organization’s Security Team: Add before travel