Evgeny Kozlov, the first deputy head of the office of the mayor and the government of Moscow and the chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, in conversation with Aparajita Mukherjee talks about the cooperation between Qatar and Russia in the tourism sector, and how that can be furthered in the coming days.
BL: Tell us about the tourism relations between Qatar and Moscow.
Kozlov: Today, Middle Eastern countries, together with China and India, are the main sources of tourist traffic from non-CIS countries to Moscow.
Tourism from the GCC region to Moscow, especially from Qatar, is witnessing remarkable growth. In the first nine months of 2024, approximately 9000 Qatari tourists visited Moscow — three times more than in 2019 — the most successful year for world tourism. This increase is driven by visa-free entry and direct flights.
Moscow attracts Middle Eastern tourists with its convenient infrastructure, mild climate, combination of modern comfort and Russian traditions. The city offers cultural experiences, luxury shopping, and business opportunities, making it an attractive destination.
Moscow actively promotes tourism through international exhibitions and forums, roadshows and fam tours to Moscow for travel companies. We are confident that these promotional tools will also strengthen our relationship with Qatar and the broader Gulf region.
Moreover, the official tourist portal of Moscow — Discover Moscow, available in English, provides valuable guidance for foreign travelers. It features a curated list of attractions and essential information for visitors to the city. To enhance awareness about Moscow, an official Discover Moscow channel was recently launched on Snapchat, where tourists from the Middle East can explore in detail the cultural attractions that the city has to offer.
BL: What learnings do you take back from this trip to Qatar?
Kozlov: Qatar’s ability to blend modern luxury with deep-rooted cultural traditions is remarkable. The country excels in high-end hospitality, offering world-class hotels, seamless services, and curated experiences for travelers. Its focus on sustainability and innovation in tourism also stands out. Qatar’s investment in large-scale events, such as the FIFA World Cup, highlights the importance of international engagement. This approach offers valuable insights into attracting global audiences while preserving cultural identity.
The recent series of business meetings in the Middle East was a comprehensive and highly productive tour that took place from February 4 to 11, 2025. The itinerary spanned key cities such as Dubai, Kuwait City, and Doha.
Our meetings included business session with local tourism experts, reinforcing our commitment to deepening bilateral ties. During the meetings in Doha, Qatar, the delegation discussed various strategies to promote cultural exchange and tourism initiatives that could attract more visitors to both destinations. The Committee emphasised the importance of building strong partnerships with Qatari tourism stakeholders, aiming to create joint marketing campaigns and cultural programs that highlight the rich heritage and attractions of both regions. Overall, these meetings have significantly strengthened our connections within the Middle Eastern market, positioning Moscow as a vibrant and secure destination for both leisure and business travel.
BL: If you weren’t working in the tourism industry, what would you be doing?
Kozlov: The ability to shape international partnerships and promote destinations aligns with my passion for global outreach. I would have pursued a career that combines international relations, business, and cultural exchange. Investment promotion, or strategic consulting would have been natural choices. These fields also allow for engagement with different cultures, fostering economic and social connections on a global scale.
BL: If asked for advice by Qatar, what would you say to them to improve tourism in the country?
Kozlov: Qatar has already positioned itself as a luxury and cultural destination, but further diversifying tourism experiences could attract a broader audience. Promoting eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and niche cultural experiences can enhance visitor engagement. Strengthening ties with international travel agencies and hosting more global events can also increase visibility. Additionally, simplifying entry processes for more nationalities and expanding direct flight connections to key markets would further boost inbound tourism.
BL: What (in your view) can Qatar learn from Moscow in the field of tourism?
Kozlov: Moscow successfully attracts diverse tourist segments through cultural festivals, international business forums, and sports events. Moscow, in particular, benefits from major industry exhibitions. Qatar could implement similar strategies, organizing large-scale tourism expos and cultural exchange programs. Additionally, Moscow’s approach to seasonal tourism — such as winter activities in Moscow — demonstrates the value of year-round tourism development. By diversifying beyond luxury and business travel, Qatar can create a more dynamic tourism landscape appealing to various demographics.
Short takes:
- Best advice received: Adaptability is key to success.
- Best book read: The Master and Margarita, a masterpiece by Russian writer Mikhail Bulgakov, unfolds entirely in Moscow.
- Best unwinding method: To prepare dinner and invite close friends.
- Best holiday destination: Moscow is beautiful at any time of the year, and there’s always something new to discover without leaving the city.
- Best piece of music: Something classical, like Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake.
