For 70% of the population of Georgia, the arrival of Russian tourists in the country is not a problem - ACT

“A significant part of the population (84%) expects an increase in the flow of tourists from Russia (including resort areas) this year, which does not cause discomfort for 70%,” according to a study conducted by research and consulting company ACT.

From June 11 to June 16, 2022, ACT conducted a survey of the population on tourism issues. More than 800 Georgian citizens older than 18 years old took part in the study.

“According to the National Tourism Administration, in June 2022, 387,781 foreign citizens entered the country. Compared to the same period last year, this figure increased by 164.4%. 90,239 people came from Russia to Georgia, and 62,192 people from Turkey.

In June, 252,656 arrived by land, 131,534 by air, 2,122 by rail and 1,469 by sea.

The top ten countries include Russia (in first place), Armenia (in third place) and Belarus (in ninth place), with an increase in the number of visitors from these countries compared to the same period last year.
The increase in tourist flows from Russia and Belarus raises many questions among the local population. This process is especially dissatisfied with those whose personal or family economic situation does not depend on the growth of the tourist flow (does not own a rental area or other commercial facility). This part of the population is more negative than positive about the abundance of tourists. This is due to the fact that prices for products, services and rental housing are rising in resort areas, which makes rest even more inaccessible for many of our compatriots.

A significant part of the surveyed population (84%) expects an increase in the flow of Russian tourists to the country (including resort areas) this year, which does not cause discomfort for 70%. And for 3 out of 10 citizens of Georgia, the abundance of Russian tourists in resort areas creates personal discomfort,” the ACT study notes.