Tourists from Bahrain visiting Moscow are typically young couples with children, according to the Moscow City Tourism Committee.
“A series of business meetings in September analyzed tourist profiles from Turkey and Bahrain,” a committee representative stated. “Bahraini visitors are predominantly aged 25-44, often traveling as families — half come with spouses and children, with two-thirds of these families bringing children under six.”
The committee noted these tourists prioritize entertainment, dining and shopping, preferring 4-5 star hotels and stays of up to seven days. Key requirements include halal food options and Muslim-friendly services with family-oriented accommodations.
“While tour cost matters, on-site spending is high — averaging 285,300 rubles per person, mainly on dining and shopping following social media recommendations,” the committee emphasized. “Their spending exceeds Middle Eastern averages, and they highly recommend Moscow for food, shopping and family leisure.”
Bahraini interest in Moscow is growing rapidly, with 6,200 visitors in 2024 — 91% for tourism. E-visas introduced in August 2023 have significantly simplified entry procedures.
Turkish Tourist Profile
Turkish arrivals show different characteristics, with business travel driving about 40% of visits. Strategic partnership between Turkey and Russia strengthens this segment, keeping Turkey among Moscow's top overseas markets.
“Turkey and Bahrain represent distinct but complementary tourism segments,” the committee explained. “Turkish tourists prefer business travel and cultural sites connecting Russian and Turkish heritage, while Bahrain represents an emerging market where family travel and recommendations matter most.”
The committee sees this as Moscow's opportunity to build long-term strategy for Middle Eastern visitors.
China, India, CIS countries and the Middle East remain Moscow's primary tourist sources. The capital organizes business missions, participates in tourism exhibitions, and creates specialized events like the “Chinese New Year in Moscow” festival to strengthen international ties.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: step-svetlana/Pixabay
Based on materials from TASS