Russia has recorded an unprecedented 570% increase in Saudi Arabian tourists, a remarkable rise driven by the streamlined electronic visa (e-visa) system launched in August 2023. According to Russian tourism officials, the number of Saudi visitors surged from just 9,300 in 2023 to over 52,400 in 2024, marking the Kingdom as one of Russia’s fastest-growing tourist markets.
The momentum has carried into 2025, with more than 9,900 Saudi nationals visiting Russia in the first half of the year alone, a 50% increase compared to the same period last year.
E-Visa Access Drives Growth
The surge in visitors is largely credited to the new e-visa program, which allows Saudi citizens to apply online without embassy appointments or excessive documentation. By mid-2025, Russian authorities had issued over 80,000 e-visas to Saudi nationals, second only to China in volume.
“Saudi tourists have strong spending power and a growing interest in Russian culture and natural landscapes,” a spokesperson from Russia’s tourism board said. Key destinations such as Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Sochi have emerged as top attractions.
Tourism Ties Strengthen
Direct flights between Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Moscow have further improved accessibility, while Russian tourism officials have stepped up marketing efforts across Gulf travel expos to promote the country as a unique and affordable alternative to traditional European destinations.
In Riyadh, travel agencies have noted a clear shift in preferences. “Russia is becoming a preferred summer destination,” one agent explained. “Affordable travel, scenic cities, and cool summer temperatures are a big draw, especially for families and youth.”
Tour operators are now designing custom packages to meet Gulf traveler preferences, including Arabic-language tours, halal dining options, and cultural programs tailored to Saudi visitors.
As Russia looks to diversify its tourism market amid ongoing global geopolitical shifts, officials see the Saudi market as a promising long-term opportunity.
