A journey to Russia can begin before you arrive in Moscow. If your flight takes you through the Middle East, why spend only a few hours at the airport? Break the journey for two or three days and discover Dubai, Muscat or Doha along the way.
The UAE, Oman and Qatar each offer a different kind of stopover, with direct flights onward to Moscow. We can help you fit a short visit around your Russia itinerary and arrange accommodation, airport transfers, private guides and sightseeing.
UAE: city sights and desert landscapes
Dubai packs a great deal into a short stay. Explore the lanes and souks of the older city, take an abra across Dubai Creek, then see the modern skyline around Downtown Dubai. If you have a second day, head into the desert for an evening among the dunes.
Abu Dhabi offers another option, especially if you would like to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and spend time by the waterfront. We can help you choose between a Dubai stay and a programme that includes both cities.
Oman: a slower pace in Muscat
Muscat is a lovely choice if you want a gentler break between flights. Walk along the Mutrah Corniche, browse Mutrah Souq and discover the city’s forts, museums and coastal setting with a local guide. With an extra day, you could travel beyond the capital to Nizwa or the pools and rocky scenery of Wadi Shab.
Oman rewards a little more time, but even two nights in Muscat can make the journey feel like part of the holiday.
Qatar: culture and the desert from Doha
Doha is easy to enjoy over a couple of days. Wander through Souq Waqif, visit the Museum of Islamic Art or the National Museum of Qatar, and take an evening walk along the Corniche. If you would like to see more than the city, we can arrange a guided trip into the desert.
Make the connection part of the trip
A stopover works especially well when you are already changing planes on the way to Russia. You can arrive, settle into a hotel, enjoy one or two days of sightseeing and then continue to Moscow on a direct flight. Routes and schedules vary by date, so we will check the practical options when planning your trip.
You do not need to organise each part separately. Tell us where you are travelling from, which Russia tour interests you and how many days you would like to spend in the Middle East. We can help put together the accommodation, transfers and guided visits that suit your journey.
Ready to turn your connection into a short holiday? Contact Go Russia to discuss a stopover in the UAE, Oman or Qatar, and explore our Russia tours.