Overview
- The Russian government approved and published a draft agreement on mutual visa exemption with Saudi Arabia on the official legal-acts portal on November 27.
- The Association of Tour Operators of Russia says tourist flows could increase two to three times by next summer if a visa-free regime is implemented.
- Tourism executives from Space Travel and Intourist describe the approval as a strategically important boost for inbound travel to Russia.
- Experts cite expanding Saudi air links with two direct routes already operating and rapidly developing Red Sea resort infrastructure as key enablers.
- ATOR reports Saudi Arabia ranked among the top five source markets for visitors to Russia in the first nine months of 2025, with operators expecting stronger summer season utilization.