Morocco Emerges as the Fastest-Growing Destination for Russian Travelers This Summer

In the course of a summer, Russian citizens were able to travel to 159 countries which is a feat of extraordinary proportions. With all of that travel, Morocco has been able to skyrocket in tourism to the point of being the most captivating place for Russian travelers. In contrast to the previous year, air ticket sales for the astonishing site in North Africa increased by 70% which showcases a brand new shift in tourism. All of that serves to accentuate the point that Morocco is now the focal point of tourism.

Changing Travel Patterns and Price Sensitivity Shape Tourism Trends

The average cost of a two-person holiday in Turkiye climbed from 225,000 rubles ($2,925) in 2024 to 242,000 rubles ($3,146) this year, reinforcing the need for travelers to seek value without compromising on experience. This price surge, coupled with an appetite for cultural diversity and unique landscapes, has opened the door for Morocco and other destinations to capture the attention of Russian tourists.

Other Rising Stars: Japan, Sri Lanka, and China

Despite these shifts, established favorites like Turkiye, Egypt, and the UAE remain firmly on the radar of Russian tourists. However, the evolving landscape suggests that travel preferences are becoming more diversified, with tourists increasingly prioritizing authenticity and novelty in their holiday plans.

Domestic Tourism Continues to Thrive in Russia

While outbound travel is booming, domestic tourism remains robust within Russia. The Black Sea coast in Krasnodar Krai and Crimea, the Baltic coastline in Kaliningrad, and the Caspian shores of Dagestan continue to draw large crowds. City escapes are also in high demand, particularly to Moscow and Saint Petersburg, which together accounted for a substantial share of air and rail travel bookings. Resorts in the Caucasus Mineral Waters region and cultural hubs like Kazan further enrich the domestic tourism portfolio.

Why Morocco is Winning Over Russian Travelers

The Future of Russian Outbound Tourism

The uptick in bookings to Morocco and travel to advanced markets shows the shift occurring in Russian tourism; depicting value for money, curiosity, and tourism diversity. As connectivity improves, and new adventures beyond the classic sun-and-sea resorts beckon, places with a blend of value for money, challenge, and rich culture are bound to be in the limelight.

Morocco has already proven to be the fastest emerging travel destination, and its traditional tourism success remains central to understanding the international travel paradigm shift underway, suggesting the direction the next phase of travel might be.