Top 10 Richest People In Turkey 2026 (Forbes): The Faces of Turkish Wealth

Turkey's economic landscape continues to evolve, fostering an environment where significant wealth is generated across diverse sectors. As of 2026, the nation's most successful entrepreneurs and business leaders have once again been recognized, reflecting both established industrial powerhouses and innovative ventures. Our publication presents the Top 10 Richest People In Turkey 2026, drawing on recent financial assessments from reputable sources.

This exclusive list provides insight into the individuals whose strategic vision and extensive business operations have positioned them at the forefront of the Turkish economy. We examine their primary sources of wealth and contributions to various industries, from food and beverage to defense and construction.

Our Evaluation Approach

To compile our ranking of the richest people in Turkey for 2026, we relied on publicly available financial data and established wealth assessments, notably those reported by Haberler.com, which references Forbes figures. Our criteria centered on verifiable net worth, examining primary business interests, market capitalization of their holdings, and reported asset values. This methodology ensures a consistent and evidence-based presentation of each individual's financial standing, reflecting their impact on the national and global economic stages.

The Top 10 Richest People In Turkey 2026 (Forbes) Turkish Billionaires:

1. Hamdi Ulukaya

Hamdi Ulukaya stands as the wealthiest individual from Turkey, with an estimated net worth of $13.5 billion as of 2026. He is widely celebrated as the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Chobani, a brand that revolutionized the yogurt industry within the United States. His entrepreneurial journey began with the purchase of an old Kraft Foods plant in upstate New York, transforming it into a leading name in the food and beverage sector.

Beyond his significant business achievements, Ulukaya is recognized for his strong advocacy for refugees, actively employing them in his factories and supporting integration initiatives. He also champions global food accessibility, aligning his company's mission with broader social responsibility goals. His success illustrates how innovation in consumer goods can lead to immense wealth while also promoting ethical business practices.

2. Murat Ülker

Murat Ülker holds the second position among Turkey's wealthiest, with a net worth reported at $5.3 billion in 2026. He serves as the Chairman of Yıldız Holding, a conglomerate that has grown to become one of the largest food companies in Central and Eastern Europe. Under his leadership, Yıldız Holding has expanded its reach significantly, acquiring well-known international brands and solidifying its presence in global markets.

Despite managing an expansive business empire in the food and beverage industry, Ülker maintains a reputation for a modest personal life. Sources indicate that his property ownership is primarily concentrated within Turkey. His consistent ranking among the nation's top billionaires underscores the enduring strength and strategic growth of Yıldız Holding.

3. Şaban Cemil Kazancı

Şaban Cemil Kazancı is a key figure in Turkey's energy sector, with his wealth reaching an estimated $5.1 billion in 2026. His financial standing is largely derived from his involvement with Kazancı Holding, a powerhouse in energy generation and distribution. The holding's extensive operations play a critical role in meeting Turkey's energy demands and supporting its industrial development.

Kazancı's consistent presence in the highest ranks of Turkish billionaires highlights the robust growth and strategic importance of the country's energy infrastructure. His company's investments in various energy projects, including power plants and distribution networks, contribute significantly to the national economy.

4. Erman Ilıcak

Erman Ilıcak's net worth is estimated at $3.7 billion in 2026, primarily through his founding of Rönesans Holding. This company has distinguished itself as an international construction and engineering giant, frequently ranked among the largest globally. Rönesans Holding is known for undertaking large-scale infrastructure projects, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities across multiple continents.

Although Ilıcak stepped down as Chairman in 2014, he continues to serve as an Honorary President, guiding the company's strategic direction. He is also deeply involved in philanthropic efforts through the Rönesans Education Foundation, supporting education and sustainability initiatives. His fortune reflects the substantial capabilities and international success of Turkey's construction industry.

5. Feridun Geçgel

Feridun Geçgel is another prominent individual on the 2026 Forbes list of Turkey's wealthiest, with an estimated net worth of $3.4 billion. While detailed public information regarding the specific origins of his fortune is less extensive compared to some of his peers, his consistent inclusion in these rankings signifies substantial and successful business ventures within the Turkish economic sphere. His wealth is a testament to shrewd investments and effective management across various undisclosed sectors.

6. Ferit Faik Şahenk

Ferit Faik Şahenk chairs Doğuş Holding, an expansive conglomerate with a net worth of $3.1 billion in 2026. His business empire stretches across a diverse range of high-value sectors, including luxury hotels, entertainment venues, and media outlets. Doğuş Holding's portfolio includes significant investments in tourism, automotive, construction, and finance, making it a multifaceted player in the Turkish economy.

Şahenk's strategic investments and sharp business acumen have been instrumental in establishing his standing among Turkey's wealthiest individuals. The holding's influence extends to various aspects of consumer life and economic development within the country.

7. Semahat Sevim Arsel

Semahat Sevim Arsel, with a net worth of $3.1 billion in 2026, is a significant figure within the Koç family, founders of Koç Holding. As the eldest daughter of Vehbi Koç, the visionary who established one of Turkey's largest conglomerates, her substantial fortune is intrinsically linked to her family's long-standing business legacy. Koç Holding operates across numerous industries, including automotive, energy, consumer durables, and finance.

Arsel is a prominent shareholder and an influential member of the Koç Holding board, contributing to the strategic direction of the diversified empire. She is widely recognized as one of the most influential female entrepreneurs in Turkey, embodying a rich history of business leadership.

8. Filiz Şahenk

Filiz Şahenk, another influential member of the Şahenk family, holds an estimated net worth of $2.9 billion in 2026. Her wealth is closely associated with the Doğuş Group, the diversified conglomerate also linked to her brother, Ferit Faik Şahenk. Her primary business interests are concentrated in the banking and retail sectors, where she maintains a strong presence within the Turkish business landscape.

The Şahenk family's collective impact on Turkey's economy is considerable, with Filiz Şahenk playing a key role in the group's financial and retail operations. Her contributions help shape consumer markets and financial services in the region.

9. Mustafa Rahmi Koç

Mustafa Rahmi Koç serves as the Honorary Chairman of Koç Holding, with a net worth of $2.7 billion in 2026. He played a crucial role in the expansion and modernization of the family business, transforming it into one of Turkey's largest and most diversified conglomerates. After serving as Chairman for nearly two decades, his continued influence shapes the company's strategic vision and long-term objectives.

His wealth is primarily derived from the Koç family's vast holdings, which span an impressive array of industries including automotive, defense, energy, finance, and tourism. Rahmi Koç is a respected patriarch of Turkish industry, known for his contributions to both business and philanthropy.

10. Selçuk Bayraktar

Selçuk Bayraktar makes a notable entry into the Forbes list of Turkey's richest people in 2026, with an estimated net worth of $2.7 billion. His significant wealth stems from the successes of Baykar, the defense company where he serves as Chairman of the Board. Baykar is renowned for its advanced military drones, which have achieved international recognition and have been exported to over 30 countries globally, seeing deployment in various conflicts.

Bayraktar is also known for his familial connection to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, being his son-in-law. His business achievements are further highlighted by the fact that he paid the highest income tax in Turkey in 2022, underscoring the substantial financial scale of his enterprises and their contribution to the national economy.

The individuals featured on the list of the Richest People In Turkey 2026 represent the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the Turkish economy. Their collective influence spans critical industries, demonstrating significant entrepreneurial drive and strategic investment. As Turkey continues its economic trajectory, we anticipate these leaders, and potentially new entrants, will continue to shape its future.