Price Discrimination at Swimming Pool in Alanya Sparks Reactions

Differentiated Swimming Pool Prices for Turkish Citizens and Foreigners in Alanya Spark Reactions

While local citizens pay 180 TL per hour and 1,200 TL per month, foreigners are charged 360 TL per hour and 3,600 TL per month. The pricing policy has drawn criticism from tourism professionals and foreign residents, as well as harsh criticism from the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP).

The differential pricing at the swimming pool of Alanya Municipality's 100th Year Sports Complex has caused a stir in the public. A twofold hourly price and a threefold monthly membership fee — especially during a slow tourism season — has sparked concerns among both resident foreigners and tourism stakeholders.

While locals can use the pool for 180 TL per hour or 1,200 TL per month, foreigners must pay 360 TL per hour or 3,600 TL per month. In other tourism destinations such as Manavgat and Muratpaşa, no such discrimination is made in public facilities. The practice in Alanya is being described as a "double standard."

Some foreign residents who contacted the Yeni Alanya tip line expressed their frustration, saying, “This kind of discrimination is forbidden for shopkeepers — how can a municipality implement it?”

Harsh Reaction from MHP: This is Not Public Service, It’s Opportunism

Mustafa Sünbül, Head of MHP's Alanya District Branch, harshly criticized the municipality’s pricing policy.

He stated, “Since the day Alanya Municipality took office, it has imposed exorbitant fees for nearly all services. A price difference of 2-3 times in swimming pool fees has become intolerable.”

Sünbül emphasized that the municipality has strayed from the concept of public service:

“By making a distinction between locals and foreigners, they are targeting people's wallets — this does not align with the principle of serving the public. This city survives on tourism. Sector representatives and visitors, who are already experiencing a difficult season, should not be subjected to such discriminatory and excessive pricing.”

He concluded by saying that the MHP stands with the public:

“We call on the municipality to immediately reverse these unjust tariffs and to use public resources in the interest of the people.”