New Horizons Visa-Free Travel To Russia For Bahrain ,Oman And Saudi Citizens Starting 2025

Written By: Dixita Baruah

Dixita Baruah

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September 11, 2024 10:52 AM

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Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi citizens will gain visa-free access to Russia by 2025, enhancing tourism and strengthening diplomatic ties.

Citizens from Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia will soon enjoy visa-free travel to Russia, starting in 2025, as confirmed by the Russian Ministry of Economic Development. This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening ties between Russia and these key nations in the Gulf region. The visa-free regime is part of a broader effort by Russia to enhance cooperation with strategic partners around the world, fostering both tourism and economic exchange.

Nikita Kondratyev, Director of the Department for Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects, highlighted that the visa-free regime will not only include Gulf states but also extend to other nations such as Malaysia, Myanmar, and several African countries, with Kenya being a prominent example. The introduction of visa-free travel is expected to facilitate greater economic collaboration, cultural exchange, and tourism between these nations and Russia, creating new opportunities for businesses and travelers alike.

The Russian Ministry of Economic Development, in coordination with the Foreign Ministry, is currently working on finalizing interstate agreements that will abolish visa requirements for citizens of these countries. These efforts are part of Russia’s larger strategy to simplify travel regulations with friendly nations and attract more tourists to the country, which could significantly boost its tourism sector. The planned visa liberalization aligns with Russia’s broader foreign policy aimed at deepening partnerships across diverse regions.

In Oman, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has witnessed a dramatic surge in Russian tourists, with arrivals increasing by over 308% in 2023. The number of Russian tourists rose from around 13,000 in 2022 to 53,145 in 2023, highlighting the growing appeal of Oman as a destination for international travelers. This increase is a testament to Oman’s efforts to position itself as a leading travel destination in the region, attracting visitors from key markets, including Russia.

As part of its long-term vision, Oman aims to attract 11 million tourists by 2040, with Russia, India, and China identified as key source markets. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has been actively promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and modern amenities to draw more international visitors. This visa-free travel agreement between Russia and Gulf countries further supports Oman’s broader tourism strategy, which is a cornerstone of the Oman Vision 2040 plan aimed at diversifying the economy and fostering sustainable growth in the tourism sector.