Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority has signed an agreement with Natalie Tours to introduce of twice weekly charter flights from Moscow the emirate.

Operating in partnership with Alpha Tours, the flights will run from October 2012 to the end of April 2013.

The charter flights will be the first to directly connect Moscow with Ras Al Khaimah and is expected to bring an extra 7,000 Russian tourists to the emirate over that time, which will translate into an anticipated increased demand of 17,000 room nights for Ras Al Khaimah hotels.

Commenting on the new charter flight service, Victor Louis, chief operating officer for the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said: “Since the establishment of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority in May last year Russia has always been a market set in our sights for further development in helping us reach our strategic goal of 1.2 million visitors by 2013.

“With its temperate climate, rugged terrain and superb beach facilities, Ras Al Khaimah offers an ideal getaway for visitors from Russia seeking sun, leisure, adventure and quality experiences with great value for money.

“Both our partner Natalie Tours and indeed ourselves are confident that our rising emirate will prove a popular new destination for many Russians as a standalone destination or in combination with other emirates.”