Russian travellers eye UAE return as flight bans lift but hurdles persist
Russian travellers are showing renewed interest in visiting the United Arab Emirates after flight restrictions were lifted. The move has sparked optimism in the tourism sector, though some hurdles remain before full recovery.
Despite the positive shift, demand is not expected to reach pre-crisis levels until late summer at the earliest. Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsia) recently removed flight restrictions to the UAE. This decision has already led to a surge in interest among Russian holidaymakers. However, tour operators still face obstacles.
The Russian Ministry of Economic Development continues to advise against selling package tours to the UAE. Until this recommendation changes, organised tourism cannot operate at full capacity. Industry experts are now waiting for a review of the Ministry’s stance, though no timeline has been set.
Arab airlines, including flydubai and Etihad Airways, have almost fully restored their flight schedules to Russia. Yet Air Arabia is still dealing with delays in resuming its routes. The lifting of restrictions was seen as a crucial step for the market, but recovery has been slower than initially expected.
Earlier, the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR) predicted a quick rebound in demand by early summer. Instead, travellers have shifted their preferences due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Destinations like Egypt, Turkey, and parts of Asia are now more popular choices for Russian tourists. The removal of flight restrictions has given the tourism industry a much-needed boost. But until the Ministry’s recommendation changes, tour operators will struggle to meet potential demand.
With travellers still cautious, a full return to pre-crisis levels is unlikely before the end of August.
