Russian Tourists Lead Spending in Georgia’s Booming Travel Sector

Russian travelers have emerged as the biggest spenders in Georgia’s tourism industry, dropping nearly $387 million during visits in the first half of 2026. That’s according to data from Georgia’s tourism administration, cited by the Russian outlet Baza. From January through June, nearly 497,500 Russian nationals visited the country, making up about one in every four of the 2.3 million foreign tourists who came during that period.

The numbers show Russians aren’t just the largest group—they’re also the most generous with their wallets. While the average international visitor spends around $720 per trip, a Russian tourist typically leaves about $780. That extra spending adds up fast, and it’s helped Georgia’s tourism sector become a major economic driver. Since 2023, the country has been earning an average of $4.4 billion annually from visitors, with tourism now accounting for roughly seven percent of Georgia’s GDP.

The news comes amid a backdrop of heightened attention on Russian travelers in Georgia. Earlier this year, a high-profile incident involving an attack on a Russian woman at a hotel in Kakheti sparked concern. Russian lawmaker Vitaly Milonov urged citizens not to cancel trips, calling the situation “confusing” and stressing that an investigation is ongoing. Still, for now, the spending data suggests Russian tourists remain a cornerstone of Georgia’s travel economy.