Moscow sees surge in UAE tourists, plans to launch initiatives tailored for Gulf region

Moscow has witnessed a sharp increase in visitors from the UAE, rising from 18,000 in 2019 to 62,100 in 2024, according to Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. He emphasised Moscow’s growing appeal to Gulf tourists, with expanded halal dining options and Arabic-language services across the city. New tourist information centres—staffed with English and Arabic speakers—have opened at key locations, including Dream Island amusement park and river stations. A recently launched Muslim-Friendly Guide offers curated recommendations for hotels, restaurants, and activities. E-visas have also simplified entry procedures, boosting accessibility for international travellers. This summer, Moscow is hosting vibrant cultural festivals and events to entice Middle Eastern travellers to the city for a seamless holiday experience.