Financial Times: Tourist Flow from Gulf Countries to Russia Quadruples
Russia is rapidly emerging as a popular new travel destination for tourists from the Persian Gulf. As reported by the British Financial Times, Moscow has been actively diversifying its international ties, particularly with the Arab world, following years of Western sanctions, with tourism playing a crucial role. Experts suggest that the appeal of Russia for Saudi, Emirati, and Kuwaiti visitors stems from a combination of affordability, novelty, exotic experiences, and effective social media marketing.
Russian authorities have significantly eased visa requirements for citizens of several Arab nations and are actively engaging influential Arabic-speaking bloggers to promote travel within the country. These initiatives are yielding tangible results. Data from the Association of Tour Operators of Russia indicates that the total number of visits from Gulf countries surged more than fourfold between 2019 and 2024. The growth from Saudi Arabia is particularly remarkable, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stating that Saudi tourist numbers have increased sixfold.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to further streamline entry regulations, with Russia and Saudi Arabia reportedly close to signing a visa-free travel agreement, which is expected to boost tourism significantly. Air travel connections are also expanding: a Saudi budget airline now operates three direct flights weekly from Riyadh to Moscow, with the national carrier planning to launch flights in the autumn. An Emirati airline will also introduce seasonal flights from Abu Dhabi to Yekaterinburg in October.
For residents of the Gulf region, who traditionally favor destinations in the Middle East, Egypt, Turkey, or Western Europe, Russia offers a fresh and unusual alternative. Tourists themselves admit that aggressive social media marketing by Russian tour operators, portraying the country as an exotic and affordable vacation spot, played a significant role in their decision-making.
The Russian winter holds a particular fascination for visitors from the desert region. Experiencing freezing temperatures becomes a genuine adventure for many. Saudi doctor Hasan al-Kattan, who visited Russia in February, described bundling up in warm clothes at -10 degrees Celsius as an `unforgettable experience.` Beyond climatic contrasts, `military tours` are gaining popularity, offering guests the chance to fire Kalashnikov assault rifles, ride in tanks, and even try their hand at launching grenades.
Gulf tourists are known for their high purchasing power, spending on average 30% more per night than European visitors, with nearly 80% opting for four- or five-star hotels. However, sanctions pose certain inconveniences: the inability to use Visa and Mastercard necessitates carrying large amounts of cash, and GPS navigation issues in central Moscow complicate the use of familiar services like Google Maps and ride-hailing apps.
Despite these challenges, the overall impression of Russia among Arab visitors remains positive. They praise the high level of safety due to visible police presence in tourist areas, the availability of halal food, and a wide array of traditional souvenirs, from delicious chocolates to painted Matryoshka dolls. This burgeoning tourist influx further underscores Russia`s gradual shift towards new markets and the development of alternative economic and cultural ties amidst its relative isolation from the West.
