Turkey · Etiquette

Turkey — Cultural Etiquette

Hospitality culture but with strong gender-role expectations. Discretion paramount.

Cultural Dimensions (Hofstede)

PDI

IDV

MAS

UAI

LTO

IND

Source: Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com).

What This Means in Practice

Power Distance

· 66/100

Moderately hierarchical: respect for age and rank; formal address opens doors.

Individualism

· 37/100

Group-oriented: relationships and references matter more than transactional terms; warm small talk before business is normal.

Achievement Orientation

· 45/100

Balanced: assertiveness and care both valued.

Uncertainty Avoidance

· 85/100

High uncertainty-avoidance: expect detailed booking processes, written confirmations, and rule-following. Improvising or "playing it by ear" can read as unprofessional.

Indulgence

· 49/100

Mid-range: balance of restraint and expression; reading the room matters.

Quick Reference

Languages: Turkish; English in tourist areas
Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
Emergency: 112 (universal)

Cultural-dimension scores from the Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com); etiquette specifics curated from local sources, embassy guidance, and community contributions. Last verified April 2026.