OTOAI MOSCOW CONVENTION: CURTAIN RAISER — 6TH OTOAI CONVENTION IN MOSCOW SET TO BE A GAME CHANGER
Fast Forward Future – The Intelligent Travel
H. C. Gera | Bureau Chief
The 6th Convention of the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), scheduled to take place in Moscow from 10th to 13th July 2025, is poised to be a landmark event in India’s outbound tourism landscape. With a delegation of 205 registered members, including leading travel professionals, tourism stakeholders, and media representatives, the convention aims to explore new frontiers for bilateral tourism cooperation while reinforcing the growing Indo-Russia travel corridor.
OTOAI, a premier body representing India’s outbound travel trade, plays a pivotal role in shaping outbound tourism trends and connecting Indian travel operators with global partners. With a mission to facilitate knowledge exchange, market access, and destination awareness, OTOAI conventions have evolved into essential platforms for tourism promotion and strategic alliances.
The Moscow edition of the convention will spotlight Russia’s capital as a promising destination for Indian leisure travelers, luxury seekers, and MICE segments. Participants will experience a curated showcase of luxury hotels, world-class event venues, and exclusive cultural offerings that position Moscow as a dynamic new entrant in the Indian outbound market.
A significant milestone for this initiative was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Mr. Shravan Bhalla, Convention Chairman, and Ms. Anastasia Popova, the Head of Business Tourism Development, Moscow City Tourism Committee, solidifying a long-term commitment to destination promotion and tourism cooperation.
OTOAI Vice President & Convention Chairman Mr. Shravan Bhalla
“Post-convention, we are hoping for an increased number of direct flights from major Indian cities to Moscow and St. Petersburg, which will further boost demand for new destinations. We also anticipate that this convention will open new avenues for travel operators, help uncover unique cultural offerings, and give our members firsthand insight into Russia’s vast tourism potential. The Moscow convention is more than just a travel showcase; it’s a strategic move toward diversifying the outbound portfolio of Indian travelers. With Russia’s evolving tourism infrastructure and India’s growing outbound market, this is a timely partnership we are excited to lead.”
During the convention, the Moscow City Tourism Committee will present top destinations, cultural assets, and business opportunities to the Indian delegation, enabling meaningful B2B and G2B interactions that could lead to tangible growth in two-way tourism.
Prominent speakers from both countries, including Indian tourism industry leaders and Russian tourism and hospitality experts, will address the convention, sharing valuable insights on emerging travel patterns, current trends, and industry challenges.
Prominent Panelists:
- Mr. Dev Karvat – Founder & CEO, Asego
- Mr. Ankush Nijhawan – Co-Founder, TBO & Joint MD, TBO Tek
- Mr. Sharad Govani – VFS India (Regional Head, South Asia)
- Mr. Irshad Dadan – MD, One Above
- Ms. Anastasia Popova- Head of Business Tourism Development, Moscow City Tourism Committee
Following the convention, delegates will embark on an immersive FAM trip to St. Petersburg, Russia’s cultural capital. Highlights include a rich blend of architectural grandeur, historical landmarks, and the famous White Nights, a mesmerizing natural spectacle that draws travelers from across the globe.
OTOAI President Himanshu Patil remarked:
“New trends are emerging for collaborations with global partners. The travel industry is evolving rapidly, and this convention will offer a unique opportunity to explore synergies, forge long-term alliances, and tap into the growing interest among Indian travelers for offbeat yet premium destinations like Russia.”
With strategic dialogue, destination discovery, and strong bilateral intent at its core, the 6th OTOAI Convention in Moscow is expected to catalyze long-term cooperation and dynamic outbound growth, reinforcing Russia’s place on the Indian traveler’s map.
