Russia and Kuwait Discuss Visa Exemption Plans

Moscow is having a Kuwaiti moment! According to Yevgeny Kozlov, Head of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, 2024 has seen a record-breaking surge in Kuwaiti tourists. In just the first nine months of the year, around 13,900 Kuwaitis visited the Russian capital—that’s 10 times more than in 2019!

So, what’s behind this sudden travel boom? Let’s dive in.

Why Is Moscow a Hotspot for Kuwaitis?

It turns out 98% of Kuwaiti visitors are heading to Moscow purely for fun. Whether it's the luxury shopping, five-star hotels, cultural experiences, or vibrant nightlife—Moscow is ticking all the right boxes for Kuwaiti travelers.

And with eight direct flights per week between Kuwait and Moscow, getting there has never been easier!

Visa-Free Travel on the Horizon?

Right now, Kuwaitis can visit Moscow with an electronic visa, but there’s talk of a full visa exemption agreement in the works. If that happens, expect even more Kuwaiti tourists to flock to Russia’s buzzing capital.

Moscow Is Rolling Out the Red Carpet

The Moscow Tourism Committee isn’t stopping here. They’ve launched a strategic tour to strengthen ties with Middle Eastern countries, with a special focus on Kuwait. Recent meetings in Kuwait City highlighted exclusive events, cultural exchange, and tailor-made travel experiences to attract even more visitors.

Moscow’s tourism scene is expanding in all directions, catering to different travel styles, including:

• Family vacations (think fun museums, parks, and entertainment)
• Business tourism (networking with a view!)
• Medical tourism (top-notch healthcare facilities)
• Sports tourism (major events and world-class stadiums)

A Game-Changer for Gulf Travelers

Another big update—Moscow is testing a new money transfer system designed for Gulf tourists. This will allow seamless transfers between real banks, virtual banks, and credit cards, making payments smoother than ever. If the trial goes well, the system will officially launch next summer.

No Kuwait Airways Direct Flights… Yet

While travel is booming, Kozlov confirmed that there are no plans (yet) for a Kuwait Airways direct flight to Moscow. But with demand skyrocketing, who knows? A new route might be on the horizon.

One thing’s for sure - Moscow is becoming a top-tier destination for Kuwaiti travelers, and this is just the beginning!