Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism led a roadshow to Moscow and St Petersburg recently joined by tourism stakeholders and partners to capitalise on the dramatic surge in visitors into the emirate from Russia in the first eight months of this year.

From January to August this year, Russian hotel guests jumped by 49% compared to the same period in 2016 with these guests delivering 102,926 guest nights.

Sultan Al Dhaheri, Acting Executive Director, Tourism Sector, Department of Culture and Tourism, said: “Since visa restrictions were lifted on our Russian visitors at the start of the year into the country visas now granted on arrival, we have witnessed a dramatic upsurge into the emirate, both from Russia and from counties within the Commonwealth of Independent States, with both markets together showing significant double-digit growth.

“Russia is an increasingly important market to us, as travellers from Russia are among the top three longest-staying visitors to Abu Dhabi with an average stay of 5 nights. Our roadshow aims to build more bridges and increase both guest arrivals and length-of-stay for the rest of the year by showcasing the appeal and attractions across our diverse emirate.”

Joining the tourism delegation to meet with leading Russian tour operators, travel agents and trade partners were representatives from key partners in Abu Dhabi, including hotels, travel agents and key attractions.

The delegation included national airline Etihad Airways, Rotana Hotel Group, Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Intercontinental Abu Dhabi, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Hilton Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace, St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Sheraton Abu Dhabi, Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, Yas Viceroy, City Season, Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi and Gromaxx Hotel Management.

Julia Dziakhtsiar, Marketing Manager, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, said: “With striking, contemporary architecture, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr offers the highest level of comfort with unrivalled views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This city oasis is where Arabic culture meets contemporary style. We believe that tremendous opportunity lies in the Russian market and we are very keen to penetrate the market and secure a fair share. Our product fits perfectly for the needs of Russian travellers and we would like to introduce ourselves to the travel agent’s audience so they can confidently spread the word and promote us.”

Abu Dhabi has witnessed 7% growth in hotel guests so far this year to more than 3.1 million, following a record-breaking 2016.

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