Russia aims to welcome 6,5 million foreign tourists by the end of 2026, announced Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov at a government meeting dedicated to the tourism sector.
According to him, the first months of the year show encouraging momentum, with an increase of approximately 37% in arrivals over the first two months. However, he warned that these figures could be revised downwards from March onwards due to the closure of airspace over the Middle East, which is complicating international travel.
By 2025, Russia had already seen growth in foreign tourism, with 5,8 million visitors, representing a 13% year-on-year increase. Authorities hope to continue this momentum by diversifying their target markets.
Moscow is counting on Asian countries in particular to support this growth. China, India, and several Southeast Asian nations are now among the priorities of Russia's tourism strategy, in a context of reshaping international trade flows.
At the same time, measures are being taken to facilitate the entry of foreign visitors. A visa waiver agreement with Saudi Arabia is due to come into effect in May, while similar or simplified arrangements are being considered for countries such as India, Vietnam, Malaysia, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
Despite logistical and geopolitical obstacles, the Russian authorities are thus demonstrating their desire to strengthen the country's attractiveness and to sustainably revive international tourism.
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