On February 25, President Vladimir Putin met with Amiran Mutsoev, the chairman of the board of the "Ostrava Dream" entertainment complex, to discuss the impact of the facility on tourism and the future of family-oriented attractions in Moscow.
At the Kremlin, Putin and Mutsoev addressed the notable increase in family tourism, with Mutsoev reporting a 30% rise in the number of families visiting Moscow. Previously, tourists typically stayed for three days, primarily for business, but this duration has expanded significantly. "Tourists are now spending up to six days, planning one of those days dedicated to visiting 'Ostrava Dream'," he noted.
Putin added some light-heartedness to the discussion, saying, "Initially – the Kremlin, and then 'Ostrava Dream'"—a playful nod to the ideal itinerary for visitors to the capital. This sentiment reflects the growing importance of leisure activities alongside cultural heritage sites like the Kremlin.
Opened on February 29, 2020, 'Ostrava Dream' has emerged as not only the largest indoor entertainment park globally, spanning 100 hectares but also as a cultural hub with numerous events and attractions. Since its inception, the complex has welcomed over 19.6 million visitors, including large-scale theatrical shows and concerts which have drawn millions more. The park has hosted around 2,000 theatrical performances, engaging over 5 million attendees, alongside 400 concerts viewed by approximately 1.1 million individuals.
Mutsoev emphasized the need for such developments, pointing out, "I believe the entertainment market in Russia is the most underrated segment of the industry." He elaborated on the relatively new concept of theming parks as something unfamiliar to the Russian audience, stating the market is ripe for growth as cultural preferences evolve. "People are just beginning to incorporate these types of experiences as regular leisure activities," he suggested.
At the meeting, Mutsoev highlighted the strategic decision to locate 'Ostrava Dream' within the urban promises of Moscow, which offers substantial advantages, such as reducing travel time for visitors and enhancing urban infrastructure. Increased tourist spending, job creation, and heightened tourism revenues are seen as primary benefits of the complex’s operation. This development reflects broader trends identified by Mutsoev about urban centers becoming pivotal locations for entertainment complexes.
Looking to the future, construction is already underway for an outdoor park within the 'Ostrava Dream' framework, which is expected to be completed by 2026. This expansion is likely to draw even more visitors and diversify the offerings available. The Kremlin meeting served to recognize the success achieved so far and the potential this entertainment hub holds—for both Moscow and the larger Russian market.
Mutsoev’s insights shed light on the changing dynamics of family tourism and entertainment, showing how governmental support and private investment can work hand-in-hand to shape cultural experiences for both residents and tourists. This partnership is expected to sustain the increased influx of visitors to Moscow and possibly set trends for other regions as they look to replicate such successes.
The conversation emphasized not only the accomplishments already made with 'Ostrava Dream' but also the strategic visions for making Moscow a significant player on the international entertainment stage. The focus remains not just on numbers but on cultivating vibrant experiences reflecting the modern Russian lifestyle and leisure preferences.