Ukraine's tourism sector was on the brink of collapse. But now rescue seems to have unexpectedly arrived – in the form of a sudden Saudi travel boom.

“We have won the lottery,” says Oleksandra Gagárina, assistant hotel manager at the four-star Premier Hotel Dnister in Lviv.

– These are the tourists that the whole world wants.

As their usual destination countries closed their borders during the pandemic, Saudi citizens have sought new vacation destinations. In June, Saudi airline Flynas launched direct flights between the Gulf state and Ukraine.

In the same month, around 14,000 Saudis made the trip, and the trade organization Visit Ukraine predicts that the July figures, once compiled, will show a doubling. And these are not just backpackers. Each Saudi traveler is estimated to spend the equivalent of 4,000 kronor per day.

In addition to the open borders, Saudis are said to appreciate the comparatively cool weather.

“We have finally found tourists to whom we can sell our famous rain,” jokes Oleksandra Gagárina.

Source:aftonbladet-TT-EFE