Spotify makes move into Istanbul
Music streaming company Spotify is to open an office in Istanbul in June, with its new general manager for the region calling Turkey a “priority market”.
“Opening an office in Istanbul is not a symbolic step for Spotify, but a completely structural one,” Akshat Harbol said.
“Turkey is a priority market for us, and strengthening our presence here is a demonstration of our long-term commitment to the country’s music ecosystem, artists, content creators and culture.”
The office will help grow Spotify’s local operations and strengthen collaboration with senior management, the company said in a statement.
In 2025 52 million users outside of Turkey listened to at least one Turkish song, according to Spotify data. International listening to Turkish music increased by over 160 percent between 2020 and 2025, while listening to Arabic music alone increased by 150 percent during the same period.
Turkish songs were most listened to last year in Germany, the US, the Netherlands, France and the UK, while interest also increased in Azerbaijan, Brazil, Austria, India and Canada.
Spotify is to continue the Equal Turkey programme, which aims to support female artists and Radar Turkey, which backs rising talent.
The company will host its masterclasses initiative in Istanbul from the spring of 2026 to support and strengthen local artists.
In July Turkey’s competition agency launched an investigation into Spotify over concerns that it is limiting fair competition.
Further reading:
- Turkey targets Spotify over anti-competitive policies
- Spotify to set up Istanbul office next year
- Rising music streaming propels region’s artists into spotlight
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