What is .ISTANBUL?

.ISTANBUL is a city-related domain extension intended for use by people, organizations, and businesses connected to Istanbul.

It is often used for local services, cultural projects, tourism information, and city-related content.

Who can register?

Registration rules can vary by registry and may include location or community-based requirements. Some names may also be reserved. It is best to review current policies before choosing a domain.

Why businesses/people/organizations choose .ISTANBUL

  • Clear association with Istanbul
  • Useful for tourism, culture, and local services
  • Relevant for institutions and community projects
  • Supports city-based branding

History and Background of the .ISTANBUL Domain

The .ISTANBUL domain extension was introduced as part of ICANN's new generic top-level domain expansion, which added new city and community-based domain options.

Its use was largely limited to organizations, businesses, and projects with a clear connection to Istanbul.

Why you might not choose .ISTANBUL

Before choosing a .ISTANBUL domain, consider name length and audience habits.

  • Length: The extension makes domain names longer.
  • Recognition: Some users may still default to .com.
  • Scope: It may not fit projects without an Istanbul connection.

Because of these factors, Website.com currently focuses on proven, widely recognized extensions such as .COM, .NET, and .ORG. .ISTANBUL domains are not currently available for registration through Website.com.

Similar alternatives available at Website.com

  • .COM – The most widely recognized general-purpose domain.
  • .NET – Often used for online platforms and services.
  • .ORG – Suitable for organizations and communities.
  • .INFO – Useful for informational websites.

FAQs

What is .ISTANBUL used for?

Istanbul-related businesses, tourism projects, institutions, and city information sites.

Are there restrictions on .ISTANBUL domains?

Rules can vary by registry and some names may be reserved. It is best to review current policies.

Is .ISTANBUL good for local identity?

It can help signal an Istanbul connection, but branding and audience habits still matter.