Russia is actively promoting its diverse tourism and education opportunities to a global audience, with a particular focus on visitors and students from Arab and Asian nations. This initiative was prominently showcased at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), where Ms. Sofia Malyavina, General Director of the National Priorities ANO, unveiled a meticulously curated catalogue of Russian tourist routes titled “Time to Travel.” This collection, a collaborative effort with experts from the Center for Strategic Research (CSR), forms a cornerstone of the broader “Discover Russia” national tourism brand.

Unveiling Russia’s Allure: The “Time to Travel” catalogue

The “Time to Travel” catalogue is an exquisitely designed compendium featuring 12 highly developed routes that traverse 13 distinct regions of the vast Russian landscape. Each itinerary is crafted to offer a rich tapestry of experiences, seamlessly blending visits to unique natural wonders with profound explorations of regional cultural landmarks.

For instance, a six-day sojourn to Kamchatka promises an unparalleled adventure, including an exhilarating helicopter tour of the renowned Valley of Geysers and active volcanoes. Guests will also experience the stark beauty of the black-sand Halaktyrsky Beach, engage in invigorating mountain climbing, enjoy serene boat rides, delve into local history at various museums, and savor the distinctive flavors of the local cuisine. Further east, the Khabarovsk Territory beckons with the rare opportunity to witness Greenland whales around the Shantar Islands, alongside world-class fishing and observations of diverse fauna, including seals, killer whales, bears, Okhotsk birds, and salmon.

Closer to European Russia, the town of Tver offers serene relaxation at Zavidovo, complete with pristine golf courses. Meanwhile, the republics of Tatarstan, Buryatia, and Mari El invite travelers to immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions of indigenous peoples and indulge in their authentic national dishes, providing a deep dive into Russia’s rich ethnic diversity. Beyond these highlighted experiences, the “Discover Russia” initiative also champions iconic routes such as the historical Golden Ring, the picturesque Silver Way, the majestic Lake Baikal, the ethereal Arctic and Northern Lights tours, and the culturally rich city of Kazan, alongside broader explorations of Russia’s captivating Far East.

Seamless access for international travelers

Malyavina also highlighted ways in which Russia has significantly streamlined the process for international visitors, fostering greater accessibility. Travelers from 72 countries can enjoy visa-free entry, while others can readily apply for an electronic visa online, with a minimum processing time of six days and an approximate cost of $50. A passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay is the primary requirement. Furthermore, Russia maintains direct air links with 32 countries, including key markets such as Egypt, Bahrain, China, Thailand, India, and the UAE, ensuring convenient global connectivity.

Russia: A growing hub for international education

Beyond its burgeoning tourism sector, Malyavina showcased how Russia is strategically positioning itself as a premier destination for higher education, with ambitious goals to increase its international student population from 389,000 in 2024 to half a million by 2030. The advantages for international students are manifold. Russian universities offer first-class academic programs across a wide spectrum of disciplines, complemented by affordable tuition and living costs that present a compelling alternative to many Western institutions.

To support this growth, a robust framework of scholarships and grants is in place. Annually, 30,000 scholarship spots are allocated, accessible through applications submitted to Russian embassies or Rossotrudnichestvo. Additionally, winners and runners-up of the prestigious “Open Doors: Russian Scholarship Project” international Olympiad can directly enroll in Russian universities with full scholarships. The government is further enhancing financial aid with a significant increase in grant support, projected to grow from 2,000 grants in 2025 to 10,000 by 2029. Moreover, state-funded spots are competitively awarded to citizens of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan residing abroad, as well as those with a Russian Federation residence permit from countries like Azerbaijan and Armenia.

International students also benefit from comprehensive support services, including assistance with visas and documents, access to medical and mental healthcare, tailored cultural adaptation programs, and invaluable employment counseling services. For those requiring language proficiency, preliminary courses, such as dedicated sub-faculties for learning Russian, are readily available, ensuring a smooth transition into academic life. These multifaceted initiatives underscore Russia’s commitment to becoming a welcoming and enriching environment for both global travelers and aspiring scholars.