Russian tourists planning to travel abroad are being advised to purchase alternative currencies such as the UAE dirham and the Chinese yuan instead of dollars and euros.
Arthur Muradyan, Vice President of the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR), highlighted that UAE and Chinese currencies are freely convertible in other countries. He noted that Russians are accustomed to using dollars and euros, often overlooking the fact that other currencies can be just as convenient. Muradyan also mentioned that in Moscow, it is even possible to buy Thai baht for those planning to travel to Thailand.
As for the UAE currency, it can be purchased at a rate of 25-27 rubles per dirham, while the Chinese yuan is available at 12.8-14.2 rubles per yuan.
On June 13, 2024, the Moscow Exchange ceased trading in dollars and euros due to US sanctions. Despite this, many experts urge Russians not to panic, reassuring that no radical changes will occur in the Russian currency market. Both the US dollar and the euro will still be available from private dealers. Experts advise against purchasing dollars and euros impulsively due to panic, as there have been instances of unscrupulous exchange points selling dollars at exorbitant rates of 200 rubles.
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