Why Russia’s Travel Warnings for the Middle East Are Here to Stay

Moscow — Russian tourists hoping for a quick end to travel restrictions in the Middle East may need to wait a while longer. According to Arthur Muradyan, vice president of the Russian Tour Operators Association (ATOR) and CEO of Space Travel, the government’s advisories won’t be lifted until the regional conflict is fully resolved and mutual commitments are locked in.

In early March, Russia’s Foreign Ministry urged citizens to avoid tourist trips to several Middle Eastern countries until active hostilities cease and air travel normalizes. The Economic Development Ministry followed suit, telling tour operators and agencies to halt package tour sales to the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

Muradyan explained the reasoning: “I fully understand why our ministries are keeping these recommendations in place. It’s like a smoldering ember — you never know when it might flare up.”

Despite the warnings, interest among Russian travelers remains strong. When aviation authorities lifted the ban on ticket sales to the UAE and allowed flights through Iranian airspace on April 20, many saw it as a green light. Airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai resumed operations even earlier. Aeroflot reopened ticket sales for UAE flights starting June 1.

But tour operators face a confusing imbalance: they can sell airline tickets, but not package tours. Meanwhile, travelers are free to fly and book hotels independently. Muradyan argues for a smarter system: “We need to match restrictions to the crisis phase — a full ban for acute danger, and simple warnings for simmering conflicts. That would make life easier for everyone: the authorities, the public, and the travel industry.”