ع
Qatar Tourism confirmed in a statement that the memorandum of understanding with TT-Travel LLC, which operates as FUN&SUN, was signed on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market 2026 in Dubai. The event continues through Sept. 17 and provided the setting for the agreement between the tourism promotion body and one of the largest tour operators serving Russian and CIS markets. The partnership centers on a specialized charter flight program designed to strengthen direct air connectivity and expand leisure travel from Russia to Qatar.
Under the arrangement, direct charter services will link the two Russian cities to Doha starting in October, according to Qatar Tourism. The program anticipates welcoming more than 22,000 Russian tourists throughout the 2026-2027 winter season. Integrated holiday packages will bundle these flights with hotel and beach resort accommodations, sightseeing excursions and a range of cultural experiences to give visitors greater flexibility while showcasing Qatar’s luxury hospitality, family entertainment, heritage landmarks and coastal attractions.
Joint marketing campaigns will target major Russian cities to build awareness and stimulate package sales, the statement added. Planned activities include virtual B2B training seminars for tourism companies, incentive programs aimed at travel agencies, familiarization trade tours and coordinated digital advertising directed at consumers. These initiatives will draw on FUN&SUN’s network of more than 600 partner travel agencies spread across Russia.
The agreement supports Visit Qatar’s strategy to diversify international source markets, broaden direct flight networks and grow its position in the luxury leisure segment from Russia and the CIS countries. Data from Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development showed mutual tourist flows between the two nations increased 26 percent in 2024 to around 120,000 trips, highlighting the scope for further gains through improved aviation links. Qatar has maintained regular air services with Russia, yet the new charter program addresses seasonal demand for winter sun destinations.
Both parties will focus on creating comprehensive travel products that combine transportation, lodging and activities into convenient offerings for Russian holidaymakers. The charters are timed to coincide with peak winter travel periods when visitors from colder climates seek warmer alternatives. This collaboration builds on prior discussions between Qatari and Russian officials aimed at expanding tourism cooperation.
Qatar Tourism noted that the partnership aligns with national objectives under the Qatar National Vision 2030 by promoting sustainable growth in the visitor economy. Similar initiatives in recent years have helped elevate Qatar’s profile among Russian travelers through targeted promotions and enhanced accessibility. The statement emphasized the role of such alliances in fostering long-term increases in arrivals from key emerging markets.
