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Russia is a land of striking contrasts. Glittering cities meet vast wilderness, imperial palaces sit alongside modern luxury, and winter landscapes unfold like scenes from an old world fairytale. With equal measures of magic, luxury, and culture, Russia is proving a popular destination with UAE travellers looking to escape the heat.

With accessible e-visas now available, direct flights from the UAE, and a growing number of halal-friendly dining options and Arabic-speaking guides, it’s easy to see the appeal of Russia. From the grandeur of Moscow’s Red Square to the northern lights of Murmansk, here are the country’s must-visit cities and best hidden luxuries.

Explore the elegance of Moscow

Russia’s dynamic capital is one of the world’s greatest cultural cities. The dramatic architecture of Red Square and the imposing walls of the Kremlin provide a hint at the city’s history and grandeur. Visitors can stroll down Tverskaya Street for a spot of high-end shopping, before taking in panoramic views of the city from one of the nearby luxury rooftop lounges like the O2 Lounge or Time Out Rooftop Bar.

As expected, Moscow has an excellent array of designer hotels and award-winning restaurants as well as a thriving contemporary art scene. There is no end to the city’s cultural offerings, take a tour of the iconic St Basil’s Cathedral, stop by one of the many museums, or enjoy a spectacular ballet performance at the regal Bolshoi Theatre.

Step into the imperial beauty of St Petersburg

North of Moscow is the city often considered to be Russia’s most picturesque. Built by Tsar Peter the Great, St Petersburg is home to pastel palaces, elegant architecture, endless canals, and some of the country’s finest museums.

The jewel in St Petersburg’s crown is the Hermitage Museum. Located in the Winter Palace, former home to the Romanov dynasty, the Hermitage Museum offers glimpses of a bygone era through its breathtaking architecture and decor. The palatial interiors include the marble Jordan Staircase and Romanov Portrait Gallery. In addition to showcasing the Winter Palace’s treasures, the museum is now home to other artistic masterpieces including Michelangelo’s Crouching Boy, several Rembrandts and historic treasures like the Koylan Vase.

Elsewhere, the city’s ballets, theatres, and classical concerts add to its impression of deep cultural elegance. With luxurious boutique hotels and a timeless European atmosphere, St. Petersburg is ideal for romantic escapes, special celebrations, or a culturally rich family trip.

Experience year-round adventure in Sochi

On Russia’s southern Black Sea coast lies Sochi, a destination that surprises many first-time visitors with its rare blend of coastal glamour and dramatic mountain landscapes. Often described as Russia’s Riviera, Sochi seamlessly combines winter ski escapes with sun-soaked summer beaches, offering two completely different holidays in one place.

In the colder months, travellers can venture deep into the Caucasus Mountains, one of Europe’s most spectacular alpine regions. Here, Olympic-standard ski resorts like Rosa Khutor and Krasnaya Polyana offer pristine slopes, modern lifts, chic après-ski lounges, and breathtaking views across snow-draped peaks. Even non-skiers will love the mountain cable cars, winter hiking trails, and cosy lodges framed by soaring, rugged summits.

Come summer, Sochi transforms again. Palm-lined boulevards, yacht-filled marinas, and sleek beachfront hotels create an atmosphere reminiscent of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventure or peaceful days by the coast, Sochi delivers a rare fusion of alpine drama and coastal luxury making it an ideal choice for active families and couples looking for something truly unique.

Step back in time in the Golden Ring towns

A short distance northeast of Moscow lies the Golden Ring, a collection of ancient towns that reveal Russia’s most traditional side. With onion-domed churches, wooden houses, peaceful monasteries, and cobbled streets, these towns feel like living museums of Old Russia.

Suzdal, often called an open-air museum, enchants visitors with its rolling meadows and white-stone churches. Vladimir and Yaroslavl offer architectural gems, while Rostov Veliky is known for its serene Kremlin and lakeside views. For UAE travellers seeking authenticity, photography opportunities, and a quieter pace, the Golden Ring provides a deeply cultural counterpoint to the country’s major cities.

Discover East-meets-West elegance in Kazan

For Muslim travellers, Kazan is one of Russia’s most compelling destinations. Capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, the city blends Islamic heritage with Russian culture, resulting in a harmonious and welcoming atmosphere.

Explore the impressive Qol Sharif Mosque, one of Europe’s largest, standing proudly within the Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander the pedestrian-friendly Bauman Street, and sample Tatar cuisine, much of which is naturally halal-friendly. With its modern infrastructure, warm hospitality, and strong cultural identity, Kazan is an excellent city for families and couples.

Chase the Northern Lights in Murmansk

For a once-in-a-lifetime winter adventure, continue your journey north to Murmansk — one of the world’s best regions for viewing the Northern Lights outside Scandinavia. From November to March, the Arctic sky often erupts in ribbons of green and violet, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

Travellers can enjoy husky sledding, reindeer encounters, snowmobile safaris, and ice fishing across pristine frozen landscapes. With specialist guides, winter-ready accommodations, and increasingly diverse dining options, Murmansk offers a magical finish to a Russian itinerary — especially for UAE travellers craving dramatic winter contrast. 

Discover Russia with DW Travel

At DW Travel, we design journeys that let you experience Russia’s extraordinary contrasts up close. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape along St Petersburg’s canals, a family adventure through historic towns, or a winter trip in search of the Northern Lights, our specialists will tailor every detail to your preferences.

We’ll take care of everything, from recommending halal-friendly restaurants and arranging private guides to booking tours and coordinating smooth transfers.

Experience Russia in all its beauty, with the comfort of knowing your journey has been expertly planned from start to finish.