Numerous changes in Saudi-Russian relations in recent years have demonstrated the two nations’ intention to deepen their relationship and expand their bilateral collaboration on several fronts, most notably in the travel and tourism and economic sectors.
Along with the establishment of a direct air link between Jeddah and Moscow, the provision of visa-free travel for Saudi nationals to Russia represents a major advancement in bilateral relations. This article will analyse what the two countries have done, especially from the Russian point of view.
Russian Visa Waiver Negotiations for Saudis
Russia’s visa waiver negotiations for Saudis have made significant strides, according to Yusuf Abakarov, the Russian consul in Jeddah. Depending on the completion of other formalities between the two parties, the consul anticipated that the system would go into effect in early 2026 when the last procedures were finished in the upcoming months.
The computerised platform has made it easier to obtain a Russian visa, according to the Russian consul. The application process takes no more than 20 minutes, and the issuance process takes three to four working days. This will enhance tourism collaboration between the two nations and improve travel between them.
According to the Russian consul, this move will signify a dramatic change in the two countries’ relationship. This is a result of both nations’ desire to make it easier for travellers and businesspeople to travel between them, as this will boost trade, investment, and cross-cultural interactions.
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Collaborative Jeddah-Moscow Air Bridge
In collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority and the flight Connectivity Programme, Flynas announced at a ceremony that a direct flight route connecting Jeddah and Moscow will begin operating on December 23, 2025.
The airline plans to run three flights per week, which will improve air connections between the two nations and provide more opportunities for investment and travel. According to the Consul, this route will help boost trade and tourism. He anticipates that more Saudi tourists will visit his nation in 2026—up from 15,000 in 2023 to 25,000 in 2025—as a result of the growth of air transportation alternatives and easier access.
The Saudi market is one of the most promising for Russian tourism, according to Russia, which hopes to attract travellers from the Gulf—especially Saudis—to places like Kazan, St. Petersburg, Moscow, and Sochi.
Read more: Saudi Tourism in 2023: Incredible Amounts & Massive Projects
‘Visit Russia’ & Unique Travel Opportunities
Moscow’s tourist organisations launched the Visit Russia programme, which took centre stage during the NAS announcement ceremony. To give Saudi and Gulf travellers a thorough and customised travel experience, this clever platform makes use of artificial intelligence solutions.
The travel experience is made smoother and more varied by this project, which provides interactive maps, a variety of lodging and hospitality alternatives, and tourism rewards programmes spanning different Russian cities.
As he wrapped up his remarks, Consul Abakarov emphasised that the opening of the Jeddah-Moscow route marks a new stage in the economic and tourism convergence between Saudi Arabia and Russia, paving the way for future collaboration in the areas of sustainable tourism, investment, aviation, and culture. All while advancing the two friendly peoples’ shared goal of increasing openness and exchange.
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