Since the launch of e-visas for Indian nationals in August last year, travel has been streamlined, with roughly 9,500 e-visas issued to Indian travelers—about 6% of all foreign e-visas granted for Russia. Moscow tourism officials expect the first visa-free tourist groups from India to arrive in the Russian capital by spring, as reported by the Economic Times.

Evgeny Kozlov, chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, highlighted a pending agreement set to significantly boost Indian tourism to Moscow. He noted the steady rise in Indian visitors: in the first half of 2024, arrivals from India hit 28,500, a 50% increase year-over-year. In 2023, over 60,000 Indian tourists visited Moscow, representing a 26% growth from 2022, with many visiting for business and work-related reasons.

Kozlov emphasized Moscow’s appeal as a hub for festivals, exhibitions, and conferences, enhancing its status as a major destination for event and business tourism. He added that plans are underway to draw more Indian weddings to Moscow.

Moscow’s long-term goal includes adding 25,700 hotel rooms by 2030, strengthening its hospitality offerings for international visitors.

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