MAKHACHKALA, May 10 – RIA "Dagestan." Emin Merdanov, Acting Minister of Tourism and Folk-Art Crafts of Dagestan, held an informal meeting with renowned UAE travelers Ibrahim Altehli and Muhannad Al Yahyai to discuss prospects for promoting Dagestan in the Middle Eastern tourism market.
The bloggers arrived in Dagestan at the invitation of Kamal Salmanov, founder of the agricultural project "Neskuchny Sad Salmanovykh" (Salmanovs' Fun Garden). Their combined online audience exceeds 1.8 million people. Ibrahim Altehli from Abu Dhabi, one of the most prominent Arab travelers, has visited 190 countries and has 1.5 million subscribers. Muhannad Al Yahyai from Sharjah, a doctor of law and travel blogger, has visited more than 160 countries and engages over 300,000 followers.
During their week-long stay, the guests explored key locations including Derbent, Sulak Canyon, Khunzakh, Botlikh and Lake Kezenoy-Am. During the discussion with Merdanov, the parties examined the specifics of hosting tourists from Persian Gulf countries and opportunities for targeted promotion of Dagestan's cultural and natural assets.
As to Merdanov, Dagestan's unique natural landscapes and rich ethnic diversity make it an ideal destination for visitors from Arab countries. He emphasized that regional authorities actively work to establish Dagestan as a recognizable and comfortable international tourism brand, with particular attention to meeting the expectations and preferences of guests from the Middle East.
Ibrahim Altehli noted that Dagestan had exceeded all their expectations, with special praise for the hospitality of its residents and the stunning mountain views. He also confirmed that he would recommend the region to his subscribers.
The meeting finished with an impromptu cultural program on Buynaksky Street in Makhachkala, where the "Dagi" ensemble performed national dances as foreign guests and city residents joined in, creating a lively celebration.