Moscow, Russia – Russia is actively engaged in discussions with several African countries to explore the possibility of mutual visa abolition, a move aimed at fostering tourism and strengthening diplomatic ties.
The Russian Ministry of Economic Development’s press service revealed the ongoing negotiations, signaling Russia’s commitment to facilitating easier travel and enhancing international cooperation.
This initiative builds upon Russia’s earlier efforts to facilitate visa-free group tours with China and Iran, a policy implemented since August 2023. The scope of this program is set to expand further in 2024, with plans to include India, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Malaysia.
Russian Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Dmitry Vakhrukov, indicated in a recent interview that the first visa-free trips could materialize as early as the third quarter of 2024, demonstrating Russia’s proactive approach towards stimulating tourism and strengthening global partnerships.
Maxim Reshetnikov, Russian Minister of Economic Development, previously announced in September 2023 Russia’s proposal for the complete abolition of tourist visas for Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, and Malaysia. This move aims to attract a higher number of high-spending tourists from these countries.
Deputy Minister Vakhrukov provided further clarity, specifying that the abolition of visas for these countries is scheduled for 2024.
