Tourist travel to Russia is gaining popularity in Saudi Arabia. Sergey Voytovich, head of the Russian Union of Travel Industry (RUTI) Committee for International Activities, reported this widespread trend among residents of the eastern country, according to RIA Novosti.

 

The expert explained that one of the main reasons for the growing popularity of travel to Russia is the Russian Foreign Ministry’s balanced policy regarding the Arab-Israeli conflict. Other factors attracting tourists include:

 

1) Simplified visa processing,

2) Comfortable climate,

3) Natural diversity,

4) High level of safety,

5) The availability of direct flights.

 

Sergey Voytovich also noted that previously, the majority of Arab tourists came to Russia from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), but after the launch of flights between the capitals of Saudi Arabia and Russia, the flow of visitors from Saudi Arabia has significantly increased.

 

In 2025, we were visited by approximately 50,000 tourists from this country, but we expect the number of guests in the coming years to reach 250,000 per year, Voytovich predicted.

 

 

He emphasized that one of the main challenges for travelers was the lack of reliable information, a problem addressed by the Visit Russia app. Together with the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI), the RST is developing this app, which will help users:

 

1) Purchase airline tickets,

2) Apply for an e-visa,

3) Search for and book accommodations,

4) Pay for excursions,

5) Use maps and navigation.