Several Gulf states are preparing to allow visa-free entry for Russians as part of tourism development, according to bne IntelliNews.
The preparation was announced by Russian Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov on 12 June at the “Travel!” tourism forum in Moscow. He said that Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman were in the final stages of agreeing on visa-free entry for Russian nationals. He also mentioned ongoing negotiations with Malaysia and Myanmar in Southeast Asia.
Middle Eastern countries, including the United Arab Emirates, have been keen to gain a foothold in the growing Russian tourism market changed since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in 2022.
The minister noted that the country welcomed 400,000 foreign travellers since Russia had introduced an e-visa system in August, as well as existing visa waiver agreements.
Of course, we will further simplify the visa process and consider reducing the cost. In parallel, we have launched a mechanism for group entry with China and Iran. We are now working closely with our colleagues from India, also proposing and discussing with them the conclusion of an intergovernmental agreement on this topic.
The Russian government aims to increase the share of tourism in the country’s GDP to 5 per cent by 2030, up from 2.8 per cent in 2023. Reshetnikov also revealed that Russia was looking for partners in Saudi Arabia to help launch a payment card for foreign tourists visiting the country.
The project, called Tourist Card, will allow visitors to apply for the card in their home country, transfer funds and use it for purchases while in Russia. Moreover, any balance will be transferred back to their account when they leave. Reshetnikov called on Saudi financial institutions to assist with the project.
Tourism development in region
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has seen an increase in Russian visitors to popular Red Sea destinations, such as Jeddah and Yanbu in recent months. The country reportedly began promoting non-religious tourism.
The country is struggling to eliminate its hostile image by investing billions of dollars in various types of tourism infrastructure. Meanwhile, Iran has tried to promote its historical sites to Russian tourists, but has found it difficult to do so with its strict Islamic cover and dry country status.
Russians face a similar problem in Saudi Arabia, but not in Bahrain, which allowed alcohol in certain places.
However, despite the obstacles, interest in visiting Iran is increasing among Russians in 2024. The number of bookings for January-February increased by 30 per cent compared to the previous year.
