Russian Travelers Flock Abroad This Summer: 25% Increase in Outbound Travel

Strategic Insights -

More than 6.4 million Russians are expected to travel abroad this summer, a significant jump from 5.15 million in the same period last year, according to Artur Muradyan, Vice-President of the Russian Tour Operators Association and CEO of Space Travel. The surge in travel includes both leisure and business travel, driven by a stronger rouble and lower airfares across many destinations. Emerging destinations such as Vietnam, Egypt, and China are gaining momentum, while perennial favourites like Turkey and Abkhazia remain in the lead.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 6.4 million Russians are expected to travel abroad this summer, a 25% increase from last year's 5.15 million.
  • The surge in travel includes both leisure and business travel, driven by a stronger rouble and lower airfares.
  • Vietnam has seen a demand surge of 2.5 times, thanks to the launch of new direct and charter flights.
  • Egypt's Red Sea is becoming a summer favourite due to expanded flight offerings from tour operators.
  • China has seen a 25% year-on-year increase in travel, largely due to increased flight availability.
  • Other emerging destinations gaining momentum include Malaysia, Morocco, South Korea, Japan, and the Seychelles.
  • Transit routes have opened up access to previously less-visited destinations such as Malaysia, the Philippines, and parts of Indonesia outside Bali.
  • Africa has seen a surprising surge, with South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania drawing unprecedented interest.
  • Neighbouring countries such as Belarus, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, and Kazakhstan are also gaining popularity.
  • Saudi Arabia is a new trend, with a luxury resort on the Red Sea attracting attention.

Statistics:

  • 6.4 million Russians expected to travel abroad this summer (2023 vs 2022: 5.15 million).
  • 25% growth in outbound travel expected by the end of the season (initially expected: 15% increase).
  • 96 flights per week between Russia and China (second only to Turkey).
  • Vietnam saw a demand surge of 2.5 times due to new direct and charter flights.
  • Egypt's Red Sea has seen a 45% growth in demand due to expanded flight offerings.
  • China has seen a 25% year-on-year increase in travel due to increased flight availability.
  • Several emerging destinations are gaining momentum, including:

+ Malaysia:

+ Morocco:

+ South Korea:

+ Japan:

+ Seychelles:

Sources:

  • Artur Muradyan, Vice-President of the Russian Tour Operators Association and CEO of Space Travel, quoted in KP.RU.
  • KP.RU.