Russian Tour Operators Restricted From Selling UAE Flights

The Association of Tour Operators of Russia has requested that the Ministry of Economic Development allow the resumption of tour sales to the United Arab Emirates and other Middle Eastern countries. Russian Ministry of Digital Development has reportedly requested that operators limit international data traffic to 15 GB per user starting May 1. Operators would then charge 150 rubles for every additional gigabyte used. Experts note that active users of neural networks and media platforms often consume between 100 and 150 GB of international traffic monthly. The measure aims to address potential degradation of development tools and internal systems. Specific limits and tariffs have not yet been finalized. Tour operators are using budget funds to compensate clients for damages, according to Arthur Muradyan, Vice President of the Association of Tour Operators. Many clients are requesting to transfer their trips to the summer instead of receiving cash refunds. Russian tour operators are currently unable to sell flight products to the United Arab Emirates, according to Kommersant FM. While three out of four Arab airlines report near-full flights, operators can only use these flights for transit purposes. The Russian Ministry of Transport must lift its recommendation regarding threats to life and health to resolve the issue. High demand for the UAE is expected this summer if hotel prices remain stable and no further escalations occur.