Turkish Airlines organised the first Black Sea Tourism and Investment Summit (Middle East and North Africa Region) in Rize, Turkey on May 11.

Agencies from 14 countries and the region gathered together for a workshop that was held with over 700 people attending. The workshop also saw over 2,000 meetings between agencies that allowed the introduction of Trabzon, Artvin, Rize, Ordu, Giresun and Samsun cities.

A gala dinner was arranged that included ministers to reflect the importance of the event and to express their support to empower tourism for Turkey’s Black Sea region, thus attracting tourists from Middle East and North Africa (Mena). Delegates not only enjoyed Turkish hospitality but also visited the Black Sea's busiest ports and its must see attractions by attending a familirisation trip between May 12-14.

During the trip paticipants had a chance to tour Rize, a picturesque tea-growing area offering scenic natural views, beautiful historical artefacts and touristic attraction such as rafting, zip lining, among others, in the Firtina valley.

Additionally, particpating guests enjoyed the exquisite features and must-see attractions which the city of Trabzon has to offer like Uzungol Lake, Boztepe Hills, and much more, showcasing just why Trabzon is considered among the most attractive global touristic destinations and how it is able to attract thousands of visitors worldwide.

Turkish Airlines has regular flights to Trabzon, which has been an amazing tourist destinations in recent years. Thousands of tourists go to Trabzon to spend a week of relaxation, enjoy local delicacies, visit the city’s several monasteries, among other must-do activities.

Turkish Airlines also flies directly to Trabzon from the GCC region including Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam and Kuwait.

The airline is planning to operate charter flights from several destinations from the Middle East to Black Sea including Doha, Riyadh, Jeddah, Madinah, Al-Qassim, Taif, Beirut, to Trabzon and Al-Qassim, Riyadh to Ordu. - TradeArabia News Service