In October 2022, the Moscow City Tourism Committee conducted its inaugural roadshow in Riyadh, marking a strategic move to promote Moscow as a premier destination for Saudi travelers. The event, held at the Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, attracted over 50 key players from Saudi Arabia’s tourism, hospitality, and aviation sectors. These engagements facilitated direct business negotiations, laying the groundwork for sustainable partnerships between Moscow and Saudi tourism stakeholders.
The increase in Saudi visitors is not an isolated phenomenon. In the first half of 2024, tourist entries from Saudi Arabia to Russia rose twelvefold compared to the same period in 2023. Saudi nationals now rank second in the number of electronic visas issued for travel to Russia, underscoring the growing interest in Moscow as a travel destination.
To accommodate this influx, Moscow has implemented several measures aimed at enhancing the travel experience for Middle Eastern tourists. A notable initiative is the introduction of the Muslim-Friendly Guide to Moscow in 2024, providing information on halal-certified hotels and restaurants, prayer facilities, and culturally significant sites. This guide reflects Moscow's commitment to offering culturally sensitive and inclusive services to its diverse visitors.
Infrastructure developments have also played a crucial role in facilitating travel between Moscow and Saudi Arabia. The expansion of direct flight routes and discussions around visa facilitation have made the Russian capital more accessible to Saudi tourists. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to position Moscow as a top-tier destination for luxury and cultural tourism.
The collaboration between Russia and Saudi Arabia extends beyond tourism. In May 2025, Russian Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov and Saudi Minister of Tourism Ahmed Al-Khatib held a virtual meeting to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector. The dialogue focused on improving the quality and recognition of tourist products, strengthening investment cooperation, and reducing visa barriers. These discussions are expected to culminate in a memorandum of cooperation by the end of 2024.
Moscow's appeal to Saudi tourists is further bolstered by its luxury offerings. The city boasts a range of high-end accommodations, exclusive shopping experiences, and gourmet dining options that cater to the preferences of affluent travelers from the Gulf region. Landmarks such as the GUM and TSUM department stores offer curated selections of haute couture and bespoke services, enhancing Moscow's reputation as a luxury destination.
Cultural attractions also contribute to Moscow's allure. Sites like the Moscow Grand Mosque provide spiritual solace for Muslim visitors, while venues such as the Bolshoi Theatre offer world-renowned performances. These cultural institutions, combined with modern amenities, create a unique blend of tradition and contemporary experiences for tourists.
Looking ahead, Moscow aims to attract six million foreign tourists annually by 2030, with a significant focus on visitors from the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and BRICS nations. This ambitious target aligns with Russia's broader goal of welcoming over 50 million annual visitors by the same year. To achieve this, the city plans to continue investing in tourism infrastructure, enhancing cultural offerings, and fostering international partnerships.
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