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Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar Tourists Transform Moscow’s Winter Scene: How Gulf Visitors Are Shaping Russian Tourism in 2026 – Everything You Need to Know
The ongoing shift in global alliances is bringing surprising benefits to Russia’s tourism sector, particularly in winter tourism. In 2026, Moscow is witnessing an influx of visitors from Gulf countries, especially Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar. Gulf nationals are flocking to Russia’s capital, seeking luxury experiences amidst snow-covered landscapes and high-end accommodations. This travel boom is being fueled by increased flights, new visa policies, and enhanced diplomatic ties, making Russia an emerging favorite for those from the Middle East. As Russian authorities roll out Arabic-language signage and specialized activities for Gulf travelers, Moscow’s tourism scene is shifting toward a more diverse international crowd, enriching both the local economy and the travel culture.
The Shift in Russian Tourism Dynamics
Over the past few years, Moscow has increasingly attracted visitors from across the Gulf States. While China has maintained its position as the leading source of tourists, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar have rapidly climbed the ranks. In fact, Saudi Arabia has become the second-largest contributor of foreign visitors, marking a staggering 36% year-on-year growth in 2025. This surge is more than just numbers; it signals a shift in Russia’s focus toward new diplomatic relationships following strained ties with the West.
These countries are not only bringing more tourists to Russia but are also contributing to a noticeable cultural change in the capital. In areas like Tverskaya Street, where luxury shopping thrives, Arabic-speaking tourists are becoming a familiar sight. The growing presence of these visitors is transforming the way businesses in Moscow cater to international travelers.
Gulf Tourists: Seeking Winter Adventures and Luxury
One of the major attractions for Gulf tourists is Russia’s winter tourism, which offers unique experiences. Skiing, hovercraft rides on icy lakes, and husky sledding in the Moscow region have become increasingly popular. A notable destination is Husky Land Park, where visitors from the UAE, Oman, and Qatar are indulging in traditional winter activities they rarely experience in their desert homelands. Arabic signage in many of these venues demonstrates the effort to make the experience as accessible as possible for Gulf tourists.
For those less inclined toward snowy adventures, other activities like hot air ballooning over Russia’s snowy landscape offer breathtaking views of the winter scenery. Tourists from Saudi Arabia have shared their excitement about these unique activities, which represent some of the best aspects of Russian tourism.
High-End Hospitality Meets Gulf Luxury
Luxury tourism has become a defining feature of Gulf visitors to Moscow. These travelers often stay in upscale hotels in the city center and frequent restaurants that cater to their tastes, including Russian-themed restaurants with elements familiar to Middle Eastern palates. Moscow’s tourism sector has catered to this luxury crowd by offering tailored services such as private guided tours, exclusive shopping experiences, and more.
Additionally, these tourists often spend significant amounts of money, typically in the range of 200,000-300,000 rubles ($6,523), on these luxury services. The high-end travel experiences not only boost Moscow’s economy but also reflect a broader trend of international visitors seeking refined luxury experiences while traveling.
Flight Connectivity and Travel Trends
The surge in tourism from Gulf countries is supported by increased flight connections. There are more direct flights between Moscow and key cities such as Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. These new air routes are a significant step forward for Russia, as they allow Gulf nationals to travel directly to Moscow, bypassing longer travel times and offering greater convenience.
New visa-free regimes also play a crucial role in the accessibility of Russia for Gulf tourists. These measures, combined with the region’s growing political influence, have allowed countries like Saudi Arabia to boost their tourist numbers in Moscow by nearly 15 times compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Moscow’s Emerging Role as a Middle Eastern Winter Destination
Moscow’s rise as a popular winter destination for Gulf tourists is part of a larger geopolitical trend where Russia is seeking to strengthen ties with the Middle East. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have played pivotal roles in brokering high-profile diplomatic deals, such as prisoner exchanges and the handover of children to Ukraine. These diplomatic actions have led to closer ties, contributing to more frequent travel and cultural exchanges between Russia and the Gulf States.
While Russian tourism has yet to reach pre-pandemic heights, it is growing steadily. According to the Russian Association of Tour Operators, the country welcomed 1.64 million tourists in 2025, a 4.5% increase from the previous year. However, this number still remains lower than the peak year of 2018, when the country hosted 4.2 million visitors during the World Cup.
Travel Tips for Gulf Tourists Visiting Moscow
- Be Prepared for Cash-Only Transactions: Due to Western sanctions, payment options like Visa and Mastercard are no longer available in Russia. Travelers should bring cash and be aware of the limit of $10,000 in cash without declaration.
- Embrace Winter Activities: If you are visiting Moscow in winter, don’t miss husky sledding or a hovercraft ride across frozen lakes for a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Stay in Central Hotels: For a luxurious stay, consider hotels near Red Square and Tverskaya Street where you’ll be close to high-end shopping and dining.
- Learn Some Russian Phrases: While Arabic signage is becoming more common, learning a few basic Russian phrases can make your trip even more enjoyable.
Other Must-Visit Russian Destinations for Gulf Tourists
- St. Petersburg: Known for its palaces, canals, and cultural heritage, St. Petersburg is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore Russia beyond Moscow.
- Lake Baikal: For those craving natural beauty, Lake Baikal offers stunning winter landscapes and unique wildlife, perfect for adventurous tourists.
