Welcome to ICANN81 Annual General Meeting in Istanbul, Türkiye. This six-day Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be focused on showcasing ICANN’s work to a broader global audience, with more time dedicated to capacity building and leadership training sessions. The AGM is also where new members of the ICANN Board of Directors take their seats.
ICANN81 will be held 9 - 14 November 2024 at the Istanbul Congress Center (ICC).
Prep Week (Online Only): Monday, 28 October, Wednesday, 30 October and Thursday, 31 October
In-Person attendance registration remains open until 8 November. (On-site registration will not be available.)
To request an invitation letter for visa applications, please Register as an in-person participant for this meeting.
Turkish
Türkiye Time - UTC +03:00
59°F / 47°F (15°C / 8°C)
Turkish Lira (TL)
A 24/7 Health and Safety Center (HSC) will be available on site to assist with any safety, security, or health concerns during the event.
Local Emergencies:+90
When visiting any host country, it is the responsibility of each traveler to learn about visa requirements and stay informed about all information specific to any ICANN meeting location. Check with your local government bureau responsible for international travel for additional information on cultural considerations and local laws that may be different from your country or region of residence.
Many government bureaus responsible for international travel information publish traveler checklists (example here).
There are many great dining options nearby.
For booking assistance, email icann81@universaltravel-tr.com
As with all international travel, travelers have a responsibility to understand the entry and exit requirements of their travel and determine if they can meet those requirements before committing to the travel.
Travelers may review specific travel requirements by visiting https://apply.joinsherpa.com/map or their local government international traveler websites.
https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa
e-Visa: https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/
To request an invitation letter for visa applications, please REGISTER as an in-person participant for this meeting.
Istanbul is the biggest city in Türkiye that straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosphorus Strait. The Old City reflects cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here. In the Sultanahmet district, the open-air, Roman-era Hippodrome was for centuries the site of chariot races, and Egyptian obelisks also remain. The iconic Byzantine Hagia Sophia features a soaring 6th-century dome and rare religious mosaics.
Although petty crime does happen, Istanbul is one of the safest cities in Türkiye for travelers. Crime levels are similar with western European countries. Crime levels are low due to a highly visible police presence and a welcoming culture by locals. There is a low incidence of violent crime against travelers.
Participants should observe basic security precautions, especially avoiding the outward display of wealth. As with many large cities, smartphones are desired by opportunistic criminals, and they should be used discreetly in public.
While Istanbul is generally a safe city for visitors, you may encounter routine security checks at hotels, the conference center, and some shopping malls. These measures, which may include metal detectors, bag inspections, and vehicle checks, are in place to ensure public safety. It's also a good idea to carry a government-issued photo ID with you at all times, as it may be requested. As with any major city, be mindful of common tourist scams (for example shoe shine brush drop).
Istanbul Airport (Turkish: İstanbul Havalimanı) is the larger of two international airports serving Istanbul, Türkiye. It is located in the Arnavutköy district on the European side of the city, and is the largest airport in Türkiye.
Taxis are available for transportation from the Istanbul Airport.
A taxi service is available at Istanbul Airport 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. This service uses three different categories of taxis: the black 'E' type, the turquoise 'D' type, and the orange 'C' type taxis.
Guests requiring a taxi service can use the main stands at the Domestic and International Passenger exit doors at the Plaza Section, as well as the vehicles on the departure floor (2nd floor).
Taxis affiliated with the Istanbul Airport Cab Drivers Cooperative adhere to the taximeter tariff regulated by UKOME.
To address the demand for vehicles offering increased trunk space, increased passenger capacity (8+1), expanded seat pitch/legroom, and other similar features, UKOME has established different pricing tariffs for the turquoise and black upper-segment taxis, to improve service quality and promote zero-emission vehicles. In accordance with the UKOME-administered tariff, turquoise taxi fares are 15% higher than orange taxi fares, while black luxury taxi fares are 70% higher than orange taxi fares.
Additional intercity transportation options, including shuttles and metro are available here: https://www.istairport.com/en/airport/airport-transportation/
You can use the Uber app in Istanbul. Uber in Türkiye is limited to offering taxis only. Even though that's the case, it still provides a helpful way to order and pay for a ride. There are a few other ride-hailing options in Türkiye which are similar to Uber such as:
This local taxi-hailing app is widely used in Türkiye. To use BiTaski, simply register with your Turkish phone number and follow the verification process. The app also offers an English language option. You can select from different taxi types, such as standard yellow, air cabin, or blue taxis, each with varying starting prices. Payment options include both cards and cash. However, BiTaski's reach is limited, with services primarily in Istanbul and Ankara.
MOBIETTFor those relying on public transportation in Istanbul, Mobiett is a must-have. This app details all bus, metro, and ferry stations, including real-time tracking and schedules. It also informs users about any cancellations on specific lines.
GETIRMore than just a taxi app, Getir offers a range of services, including food and grocery delivery. Its taxi service, GetirTaxi, is gaining popularity for its convenience.
YANDEX TAXITaxi provides a reliable taxi service across various Turkish cities. It’s appreciated for its quick service and transparent pricing.
ITAKSIThe Istanbul Taxi Drivers’ Association operates Itaksi, making it a trusted choice for many. It guarantees regulated fares and safe rides.
The alternative mode of transportation between Istanbul International Airport and your hotel is a pre-booked, private car service through ICANN's contracted Destination Management Company (DMC). For private car service bookings through ICANN's preferred DMC, email: icann81@universaltravel-tr.com
Make sure you confirm final costs, cancellation policies, and terms and conditions before booking.
While taxis are readily available at the Istanbul (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen International (SAW) airport(s), should you wish to confirm a private transfer, this can be arranged for you at the following rates:
| Vehicle (Capacity) | One Way Rate(s) |
|---|---|
| Mini Van (3 pax) | USD $95 |
| Van (10 pax) | USD $95 |
Please confirm final costs, cancellation policies, and terms and conditions prior to booking.
For Questions: icann81@universaltravel-tr.com
ICANN negotiates group rates for all official hotels to provide affordable housing options for attendees. Room blocks and rates are subject to availability and booking deadlines. In the event that ICANN room blocks are sold out, any remaining rooms will be sold at market rates set by the hotel. Please confirm deposit and cancellation policies directly with the hotel prior to booking.
Nestled amidst picturesque gardens, you’ll find an iconic Istanbul hotel with a storied 60-year history. Rooms and suites offer modern conveniences and private balconies overlooking the Bosphorus and the Old Town. Resort-style amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, fabulous dining, Turkish baths and spa, and dedicated children’s facilities.
Please note that the hotel is currently undergoing renovations. Interior upgrades are in progress between 10 am and 5 pm. Garden-view rooms are not affected. The outdoor pool is open during the summer, the fitness center and massage services are relocated, and wet areas, including the indoor pool, are closed.
Located at the beginning of a tree-lined boulevard leading to Taksim Square, Divan İstanbul Hotel is just a few steps away from the city center. This means that all the unforgettable historical and cultural sites that define İstanbul, as well as its most important businesses and commercial addresses are within minutes of the hotel. Adding comfort to convenience of the transportation, Divan İstanbul Hotel meets the needs of both the business travelers as well as leisure travelers.
Divan İstanbul Hotel welcomes its guests in its Divan İstanbul Spa, and in three gourmet restaurants: Divan Pub, Divan Lokanta and Maromi. With its large meeting rooms, foyer areas, Divan Bar and Divan Patisserie on the lobby floor, Divan İstanbul Hotel provides great gathering spaces for meetings and invitations as well as for those who want to just relax and enjoy the ambiance over a fine Turkish pastry or an expertly mixed cocktail.
ICANN will provide shuttle service between the Divan İstanbul Hotel and the Istanbul Congress Center (ICC). Please click here for the Shuttle Schedule.
Surrounded by peaceful gardens, Grand Hyatt Istanbul blends an exciting city life with a relaxing retreat in Istanbul. Explore historic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Embrace the past and discover the future of Istanbul during your stay at Grand Hyatt Istanbul.
ICANN will provide shuttle service between the Grand Hyatt Istanbul Hotel and the Istanbul Congress Center (ICC). Please click here for the Shuttle Schedule.
With views over the Bosphorus, InterContinental Istanbul offers a luxury home base from which to explore this historic city. Located in Taksim, our hotel puts you close to historic sites and cultural destinations including Dolmabahce Palace, Taksim Square, and the Nişantaşı shopping district. Enjoy exceptional on-site dining, serving gourmet breakfast buffets and traditional Turkish cuisine. After a day of exploring, indulge in a treatment at our acclaimed SPA InterContinental.
ICANN will provide shuttle service between the InterContinental Istanbul Hotel and the Istanbul Congress Center (ICC). Please click here for the Shuttle Schedule.
Registering for an ICANN meeting or event constitutes an acceptance of the Community Anti-Harassment Policy and Terms of Participation and Complaint Procedure, the ICANN Expected Standards of Behavior, Privacy Policy, and ICANN electronic Terms of Service.
CONDUCT
All participants are expected to conduct themselves on a professional level and will be held to the standards set forth in the ICANN Community Anti-Harassment Policy and Terms of Participation and Complaint Procedure and the ICANN Expected Standards of Behavior.
USE OF PHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGES
Registering for this meeting constitutes an agreement to ICANN’s use and distribution of image or voice of attendees in photographs and video, or audio recordings.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDING POLICY
Filming, photographing, and recording audio of open ICANN sessions is permitted, as long as the method of recording used is reasonable and not conducted in a manner that violates the ICANN Expected Standards of Behavior.
Registration and public participation in ICANN Public Meetings constitutes an agreement that all photography, video, or audio recordings of open ICANN sessions are permitted and can be posted in the public domain. Agreement does not constitute a waiver of the participant’s right to challenge any filming, photography, or audio recordings of an open ICANN session if it is being performed in a manner that violates ICANN's Expected Standards of Behavior.
The formal records of all open meetings will be those published on https://meetings.icann.org/en/calendar or icann.org.
No. There will be no onsite registration facilities, so you must register in advance. This provides the event organizers and venue the ability to get important information in advance in terms of expected numbers and capacity planning.
In-person, advance registration will close on Friday, 8 November 2024. After that point in time, only virtual participation will be open for continued registration. Walk-up and late registrations will not be accepted after the in-person advance registration closes. All walk-up and late registered attendees will only have access to virtual participation.
ICANN will have an onsite Health and Safety Center (HSC) at ICANN81 to support all registered onsite attendees who need medical assistance during the event. The attendee’s badge will include the HSC’s location, hours of operation, and contact information. Any attendee who desires medical assistance for minor-to-moderate illness or injury during the event is encouraged to contact the HSC for support. For medical emergencies, please dial 112 immediately from a local phone to reach emergency services.
If you feel unwell during the event, you are strongly encouraged to limit in-person activities and use virtual participation from your hotel room. Should you choose to engage in any in-person activities, either while unwell or after exposure to someone who is ill, you are strongly encouraged to wear a well-fitting mask to minimize risk to others.
Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 must not enter the Istanbul Congress Center (ICC) meeting spaces and is requested to notify the HSC. The HSC team will provide medical assistance, as needed, plus guidance to self-isolate and notify one’s close contacts of potential exposure to COVID-19.
ICANN org has modified several aspects of the arrival process with the return to hybrid meetings. All in-person attendees must be pre-registered by 8 November 2024 and show their registration confirmation email (requires a QR code) and government issued photo identification to receive an ICANN81 attendee badge.
To help reduce the queues, all attendees will be required to present their in-person registration confirmation emails (digital or printed), which will be scanned for entry. There will not be any onsite registration available. Accompanying persons and family members will not be permitted into the meeting space unless they are also registered as in-person attendees.
Badge Pickup Station hours on B1 Foyer of the ICC:
| Friday, 8 November | 9:00 – 16:00 (Early Check-in) |
| Saturday, 9 November | 8:00 – 17:00 |
| Sunday, 10 November | 8:00 – 17:00 |
| Monday, 11 November | 8:00 – 17:00 |
| Tuesday, 12 November | 8:00 – 17:00 |
| Wednesday, 13 November | 8:00 – 17:00 |
| Thursday, 14 November | 8:00 – 13:00 |
ICANN will conduct entrance scans of all attendee badges upon entry to ICANN81. The primary purpose is to enable email notifications to attendees of potential health or safety notifications.
Contact tracing will be implemented with digital badge scanners when entering the ICANN81 meeting space. Ushers will quickly scan a QR code printed on all attendee badges upon entry to the ICANN81 venue.
The printed badge QR code does not contain any personally identifiable information, and is a random generated identifier (ID) for each attendee. This ID can only be linked by ICANN org to a registration record for a health and safety notice notification report, which will allow ICANN to notify all on-site participants of potential exposures to COVID-19 or other safety notifications. Badge scanning upon entry is mandatory for all in-person attendees. Contact tracing will not be conducted for virtual participants.
We will use your data in accordance with our Privacy Policy and as explained in this FAQ.
ICANN org monitors local health and safety risks in addition to relevant advisories and guidance from governmental and related public agencies. We also work closely with our local partners supporting the event to develop and implement comprehensive event safety plans and procedures for a safe, healthy and productive meeting.
ICANN reserves the right to modify these plans if the situation prior to the meeting or during the meeting deems it necessary to curb an outbreak and/or reduce the overall risk to delegates.
As a reminder, adequate traveler and health insurance is the responsibility of the traveler, to ensure coverage of any costs incurred due to illness or injury while traveling.
This page contains information from third-party websites that are not under
the control of ICANN. Sources include both private and government websites. Any information included on this
page that is not directly related to ICANN or its operations is for informational purposes only and has not
been verified or reviewed by the ICANN organization.