History and Vision of the University
Antalya Belek University was founded by the Antalya Culture and Education Foundation (AKEV) in 2015. Located in the Belek region of Antalya, known as Turkey’s tourism capital, the university emphasizes a student‑centred approach and innovative education. The university’s vision is to become an internationally recognized higher education institution by delivering world‑class education. It specializes in fields such as tourism, hospitality, gastronomy and sports sciences, and aims to combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The university also seeks to support cultural diversity and social interaction in line with the dynamic structure of the Mediterranean region and prepare its students for the global job market.
Education
Antalya Belek University offers a wide academic program spectrum at undergraduate, master and doctoral levels. The institution’s academic units include, among others, a Faculty of Tourism, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, and a Faculty of Engineering. The primary language of instruction is Turkish, and some programs are offered in English. For international students, there is an optional English preparatory program as well as Turkish language support. The university places special emphasis on practical education in tourism and sports sciences, with experienced faculty who have participated in international projects. Through programs such as Erasmus+ and other exchange schemes, students are given opportunities to study and intern abroad and to collaborate with the tourism sector.
Campus and Technological Infrastructure
The university campus is located in the Belek region of Antalya and is equipped with modern infrastructure: large lecture halls, computer laboratories, practical education areas and social facilities. Its library covers tourism, sports sciences, engineering and social sciences fields, with both printed and digital resources. High‑speed internet and digital learning platforms support easy access to course materials. Additionally, modern sports facilities, gastronomy laboratories and hotel‑practice areas enable hands‑on training for students in tourism and sports sciences.
Student Housing
Antalya Belek University does not own dedicated dormitories, but there are private dorms, student apartments and rental flats in and around the Belek area. These accommodation options typically offer internet, security, meals, laundry and study rooms. The university’s International Relations Office provides guidance to international students in finding suitable housing. Belek’s safe and tourist‑friendly environment enhances student living standards.
Social Life
The university supports an active campus culture with student clubs, social responsibility projects, cultural events and sports tournaments. Annual spring festivals, cultural festivals and sports activities make campus life vibrant. Sports halls, outdoor activity areas and recreation centres encourage physical activity. Given its location in Antalya, students also have access to a wide range of cultural and social activities beyond the campus: water sports, nature walks, visits to historical sites and festivals.
Cultural Adaptation for International Students
Recognizing the multicultural environment of the Belek region, the university offers a supportive environment for international students. The International Relations Office assists with registration, course selection, visa applications and residence permits. Orientation programs cover campus life, social activities and information about Antalya’s cultural structure and transport. Events such as cultural festivals, sports activities and social responsibility projects help students from different countries interact and adapt quickly.
Health Services and Safety
Student health and safety are priorities for the university. An on‑campus health unit offers basic health services and first aid; when more comprehensive care is needed, cooperation is in place with state and private hospitals in the Belek region. International students can benefit from Turkey’s General Health Insurance (GSS) system; the International Relations Office provides guidance in the application process. Campus security includes 24/7 surveillance cameras and security personnel; entry and exit points are closely monitored and security measures are strictly enforced.
Transportation
The university is located in the Belek region of Antalya, and campus access is facilitated by buses, minibuses and dolmuş‑lines. Students can use the AntalyaKart for discounted public transport. Belek’s position as a tourist area increases the variety of transport options. From Antalya Airport (approximately 30 km away) and from Antalya main bus terminal, there are regular connections to the campus. Because of its location, the campus enables easy urban mobility.
Student Support Services
The university provides comprehensive support services to assist students academically and socially. The International Relations Office handles the needs of international students (registration, visa, health insurance, residence permit). The Psychological Counseling and Guidance Centre offers individual and group sessions covering adjustment issues, exam anxiety, stress management and personal development. The Career Development Centre organises workshops on CV preparation, interview techniques and career planning, leveraging the university’s strong tourism‑sector links to provide internships and employment opportunities. Academic advising services support students in course selection, exam preparation and academic success.