A significant number of Turkish entrepreneurs have established businesses in Montenegro, particularly in Kotor, although official statistics on their numbers are lacking. Many are concentrated in the Old Town, where they rent commercial spaces to sell leather goods, clothing, carpets, and souvenirs, and increasingly, they are taking over restaurants and hospitality businesses that are already operating successfully.
Serdar Dikyol, originally from Kusadasi, Turkey, shared with Pobjeda that his move to Montenegro was politically motivated, following the 2016 coup attempt in Turkey. He believes many of his compatriots came for similar reasons.
“After the coup in 2016, I moved to Kotor in early 2017, found a business space, and started working. We quickly realized how beautiful it is to live and work here. I’ve been in Kotor for eight years now,” said Dikyol, who operates a leather shop in the Old Town.
He mentions that many Turkish nationals from cities like Antalya and Istanbul also came for work opportunities. However, for those from Kusadasi, the political situation in Turkey is likely the main driving factor.
Dikyol praises the relaxed lifestyle in Kotor, describing it as a city where there is no pressure and people live and work peacefully. He contrasts this with his experience in Turkey, stating that he feels more at home in Kotor than he does in his native country.
“Kotor is completely relaxed; there’s no pressure, life is normal here. If you live and work in Turkey for ten years, then you’d understand what I’m talking about. People are good, there’s work because of the Port of Kotor and the cruise ships bringing many tourists. It’s a city that is alive, cultural and beautiful. No one looks at you differently because you’re not from here. We’ve been accepted, and I feel like this city is my home,” Dikyol shared. He adds with a smile that his strong connection to Kotor may also stem from his roots, as his grandfather was from Prijepolje, Montenegro.
He has learned the local language, embraced the culture and religion, and believes that mutual respect has helped him build a harmonious life in Kotor. “I found my second home here, a peaceful haven. It’s not just about work and earnings, but about the people, the city, and the freedom to live. I respect others, and they respect me. It’s like heaven. I’ve lived and worked in Cyprus, England, and Turkey, but after eight years in Kotor, I can say this city and country are paradise. When I enter Montenegro, I breathe easier. I hope this remains the same for the next 100 years. I want to stay here,” he concluded.
As for the number of Turkish nationals in Kotor, Dikyol estimates that around 30 of them are based in the Old Town. He emphasizes that every city has its share of both good and bad people, and it’s up to the individual to choose how they behave. “I always choose to be a good person, kind to everyone. That’s my life motto,” Dikyol added.
In response to inquiries from Pobjeda regarding the rental of municipal properties in Kotor, the Municipality’s Property and Legal Affairs Secretariat stated that they have not leased any of their properties to Turkish nationals.
