1. Match Your Local Brand
If your business, project, or service is based in Istanbul, a .IST domain instantly communicates local identity. Use it to strengthen your connection with customers who value authenticity and location relevance.
2. Keep it Short & Easy
Choose simple, memorable names that are easy to spell. Examples:
- Food.ist for a local restaurant
- Taxi.ist for transport services
- Tours.ist for travel agencies
3. Use Keywords Strategically
Combine industry + location keywords for clarity.
Examples: Baklava.ist, Startup.ist, HotelDeals.ist.
4. Secure Multiple Variations
Protect your brand by registering both .COM and .IST versions (if available). This way, you cover both global recognition and local branding.
5. Think About SEO
While Google treats all domains equally, having a geo-specific domain like .IST can build trust and improve click-through rates with Istanbul-based audiences.
6. Act Quickly
.IST is newer and less crowded than .COM, meaning you still have a chance to grab premium one-word or two-word names—but competition is growing.
7. Don’t Forget Renewals
Like all domains, .IST requires yearly renewal. Set up auto-renewal to avoid losing your valuable brand name.
✅ Bottom Line: Register a .IST domain if your brand identity, products, or services are strongly tied to Istanbul’s culture, tourism, or business market. Pair it with a .COM for global coverage.