The number of tourists from the United Arab Emirates visiting Moscow has seen notable growth, increasing from 18,000 in 2019 to 62,100 in 2024, according to Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee.
In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Kozlov highlighted the tourism offerings available in Moscow, especially those tailored for visitors from the Gulf region.
Moscow has introduced several initiatives aimed at making the city more accessible and comfortable for visitors from the Middle East. These include the availability of halal restaurants and Arabic-speaking support at key visitor centres across the capital. Five Tourist Information Centres have been opened at key locations, including the city centre, river stations, and Dream Island amusement park. These centres offer assistance in Arabic and English.
A new Tourist Information Centre has also been launched in collaboration with Sber, providing access to banking services and a Tourist Card that offers additional travel support.
To better guide Muslim travellers, a Muslim-Friendly Guide to Moscow has been published in 2024. The guide includes information on suitable restaurants, hotels, seasonal activities, cultural sites, parks, and shopping locations.
Kozlov also pointed to the introduction of electronic visas (e-visas) as a key factor in making travel to Moscow more convenient. The e-visa process is available to citizens of many countries, including the UAE, reducing the administrative burden of international travel.
This summer, Moscow has launched several city-wide festivals and outdoor activities. Highlights include:
- Moscow Estates Festival across over 40 heritage sites
- Theatre Boulevard with performances at 14 outdoor venues over 92 days
- Gardens and Flowers Festival, focusing on urban landscaping and floral displays
- Street. Dance and Street. Art sessions, offering music, art, and community workshops
In addition to these seasonal events, tourists can visit historical and cultural landmarks such as the Kremlin, Red Square, Bolshoi Theatre, and Alexander Garden. Attractions also include modern sites like the Moscow-City district with its observation deck, as well as the Moskino Film Park.
Moscow is recognised for its commitment to public green spaces, with more than 140 parks and nature reserves across the city. Projects like Zaryadye Park and Gorky Park focus on public access and environmental awareness, supported by smart lighting, ecological transport, and waste systems.
Visitors can also explore locally made products at 14 “Made in Moscow” pavilions and the Green Market, which features more than 700 brands.
Kozlov concluded by affirming the city’s goal of providing a comfortable and culturally aware environment for all international visitors, including those from the UAE and the wider Gulf region.