Direct flights from Russia to a country on the Red Sea to be offered: Tourist attractions, prices for tours and tickets detailed
In a significant development, direct flights from Moscow to Saudi Arabia are set to resume starting from August 1, marking a new chapter in tourism between the two countries.
Russian airline Nordwind will lead the way, resuming flights from Sheremetyevo every 12 days starting August 8, while Saudia, the national Saudi carrier, plans to launch flights between the capitals of Russia and Saudi Arabia, three times a week, starting in October.
The flight time from Moscow to Saudi Arabia's capital, Riyadh, is approximately 14 hours, offering Russian travellers a long but direct journey to this emerging destination.
Saudi Arabia is increasingly becoming a popular choice for tourists, with its pristine beaches, clear waters, and untouched underwater world drawing comparisons to the Maldives. The Red Sea, located in Saudi Arabia, is another such destination, renowned for its white, clean sand, transparent water, and secluded hotels with villas on private islands, accessible only by boat or seaplane.
The Saudi government is making efforts to attract more foreign tourists, simplifying visa procedures and diversifying its tourism offerings. Saudi Arabia is actively expanding its tourism sector beyond religious pilgrimages, hosting international sports events, business summits, exhibitions, and cultural festivals.
The strengthening of bilateral ties between Russia and Saudi Arabia, evidenced by high-level diplomatic engagements and mutual efforts to boost tourism, creates a favourable environment for increased travel. The direct flights are expected to not only facilitate tourism but also support business and cultural exchanges.
For Russian tourists, the benefits are numerous. With direct flights, travel to Saudi Arabia becomes more convenient, saving time and avoiding the hassle of transfers through third countries. Russian travellers gain access to Saudi Arabia’s rapidly developing urban centres, historical sites, and natural attractions, as well as the opportunity to participate in international events hosted in the Kingdom.
Saudi airports serve as major international hubs, offering Russians new connecting flight options to Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas, potentially making Saudi Arabia a gateway for broader travel itineraries. The new flight routes also benefit Russian business travellers and pilgrims, who previously relied on charters or complicated itineraries to reach the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
In the Red Sea resort, cultural exchange is fostered, offering Russian visitors a chance to explore Saudi heritage, cuisine, and contemporary culture. However, it's important to note that alcohol is not allowed in the Red Sea resort in Saudi Arabia.
Package tours for all-inclusive accommodation in a 3* hotel, including flights, start at 235,000 rubles for two people in Margarita Island. While Russian vacationers aren't currently rushing to Saudi Arabia for beach holidays, they are showing interest in visiting Riyadh, Jeddah, and the ancient city of Hegra.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia is emerging as a key destination for Russian tourists due to the launch of direct flights, easier access, a diversified tourism sector, and growing bilateral ties—all of which translate into significant benefits for Russian travellers seeking convenience, new experiences, and enhanced global connectivity.
- The new direct flights from Moscow to Saudi Arabia open up a opportunity for a novel lifestyle experience as Russian travelers can now easily visit Saudi Arabia's pristine beaches, clear waters, and untouched underwater world, notably the Red Sea, which is drawing comparisons to the Maldives.
- With the increased frequency of direct flights and the growth of Saudi Arabia's tourism sector beyond religious pilgrimages, it's possible that Saudi Arabia will become a popular travel destination for Russian tourists, offering access to new cultural experiences and connecting flight options to various international destinations.
