The UN Climate Change Conference COP31 is taking place in Antalya from 9 to 20 November 2026. The summit is held at the Antalya EXPO Center in Aksu, just a few minutes from the golf courses of Belek. For these two weeks, the world’s climate agenda will be set from Antalya. At Epos Golf, we have put together the opportunities and the practical points every golfer travelling to Belek during this period should know.
How COP31 Benefits Golf
Belek in the global spotlight. Thousands of delegates, journalists and business people are coming to Antalya for the summit, and a media centre for around 4,000 journalists has been set up at the venue. This attention presents Belek not only as a holiday resort but as a hub for congress and sports tourism. With the golf courses so close by, some of these international visitors may well come back to the region to play golf.
Sustainable golf takes centre stage. Climate is the core theme of COP31, which puts practices such as water saving, the use of recycled water, protecting native vegetation and energy efficiency on golf courses in the spotlight. Many courses in Belek have been investing in these areas for years. Epos Golf is committed to recommending environmentally responsible courses and hotels to its guests.
A longer season. November is one of the best months for golf in Belek: mild weather and courses in top condition. Local business leaders expect that, if the investments made for the summit are used well, tourism could extend across all 12 months. Golf is one of the strongest pillars keeping Antalya busy in autumn and winter, and at Epos Golf we expect demand for Belek to grow over the winter season.
Traffic: What to Watch Out For
During the first week of the summit, especially around the leaders’ segment, extensive traffic arrangements are in place between the airport and Belek. The main measures announced by the Antalya Governorate and Provincial Police are:
- Heavy vehicle restrictions (9–13 November, 06:00–22:00): On sections of the D-400, D-650 and D-685, vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, intercity coaches and minibuses are restricted. This may affect routes for large group transfers.
- D-400 between the airport and Belek (10–12 November): The road is not fully closed. On the roughly 18 km stretch between the Airport Junction and the Belek Shell Junction, the Serik-bound lanes are open to public traffic in both directions, while the airport-bound lanes are reserved for official convoys.
- Leaders’ Road (Liderler Yolu): Reserved for official convoys on 10–12 November and fully closed to all traffic on 11 November from 07:30 to 12:00. During these hours, right turns from the Belek Junction onto Belek Turizm Yolu are not possible and traffic is diverted through Serik town centre.
- Security checks in Belek (10–12 November): Vehicles and pedestrians are checked when entering and leaving the area. Only accredited persons can enter the summit security zones.
- Flights: There is no general flight restriction. The airport can be reached via alternative routes such as Lara Caddesi – Korupark Junction – Kardeş Kentler Caddesi.
Practical tips for golfers:
- Allow at least 45–60 minutes extra for airport transfers. During this period, Epos Golf adjusts its guests’ transfer times to the traffic situation.
- For the morning of 11 November, consider moving your tee times to the afternoon or choosing a course close to your hotel.
- If you plan to switch between courses, plan your route in advance and carry your ID or passport for security checks.
- Follow the Antalya Governorate’s official channels for the latest updates, as routes and times may change. For any questions, the Epos Golf team is happy to help.
The Value of COP31 for Türkiye
A stronger role in climate diplomacy. This is the first time Türkiye has hosted a UN climate summit. Bringing together representatives of more than 190 countries, it is a major opportunity to present Türkiye’s climate policy and green transition goals to the world.
Economic contribution. According to local business representatives, the summit is expected to generate around 2 billion US dollars of direct economic activity in Antalya, with total added value reaching 3–4 billion dollars. These are still estimates, but the accommodation, transport and service sectors are already feeling the impact.
Lasting infrastructure. Investments in the former EXPO 2016 site, improved transport links and permanent facilities will continue to serve congresses and fairs after the summit. This will help Antalya grow beyond sun, sea and sand into a stronger destination for congress, sports and golf tourism.
Long-term impact on golf tourism. Belek is one of Europe’s leading golf destinations. The international visibility, focus on sustainability and improved infrastructure that come with COP31 have the potential to grow Türkiye’s share of golf tourism. Serving golfers in Belek since 2010, Epos Golf will continue to be part of this growth.
Conclusion
COP31 calls for some careful traffic planning in the short term, but in the long run it is a big win for Antalya and Belek. If you are planning to play golf in Belek during this period, leave your transfers, hotel and tee times to Epos Golf, and we will find the best courses and times for you.