ATM 2025: Middle East Fights for Russian Tourists

From April 28 to May 1, the Arabian Travel Market international tourism exhibition was held in Dubai, which once again confirmed its status as the main event in the tourism industry. The exhibition broke the attendance record: 55,000 guests - 16% more than last year.

ATM 2025 clearly identified a key trend: the Gulf countries, including not only the UAE, but also their neighbors, are increasing their efforts to attract Russian tourists.

«The activity of the Gulf countries is off the charts. Looking at the success of the UAE in attracting tourists, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain are picking up the pace. For all of them, the Russian market is becoming one of the priorities», - Taras Kobishchanov, Vice President of ATOR and CEO of Russian Express, noted.

There is practically everything to increase the Russian tourist flow to these countries – direct flights from Russia are already flying to Oman, Bahrain and Qatar. Flights to Saudi Arabia from Saudia Airlines are scheduled to launch this fall. The only restrictions are prices. So far, the Persian Gulf countries outside the UAE are a luxury product for the Russian tourist.

Photo: ATOR