Tuesday, June 17, 2025
In a historic move to boost tourism and strengthen bilateral ties, Russia and Jordan have officially signed a landmark visa-free travel agreement, allowing citizens of both countries to visit each other without the need for visas for stays of up to 30 days. This groundbreaking deal eliminates bureaucratic hurdles, making travel more accessible and efficient, while paving the way for increased cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and a surge in tourist arrivals. By removing visa requirements, both nations are not only enhancing the ease of travel but also solidifying their commitment to fostering closer ties, opening new opportunities for collaboration, and tapping into the growing tourism potential between them.
Russia and Jordan Sign Historic Visa-Free Travel Agreement to Boost Tourism
In a groundbreaking move to strengthen tourism ties, Russia and Jordan have officially signed a visa-free travel agreement, greatly simplifying short-term travel between the two nations. This new arrangement removes the need for typical paperwork, fees, and long airport queues, allowing citizens of both countries to visit each other without the hassle of obtaining a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The agreement promises to usher in a new era of tourism and cultural exchange between these two countries.
Easing Travel Barriers
Previously, Russian tourists visiting Jordan were required to pay a visa fee of 40 Jordanian dinars (approximately USD 56.42) for a visa-on-arrival, which permitted them to stay for one month. Similarly, Jordanian citizens heading to Russia had to apply in person at consulates, providing invitation letters and supporting documents to obtain a visa. This bureaucratic process often led to delays and additional costs, making travel more difficult for both sides.
Now, with the new deal in place, both Russian and Jordanian nationals can enter each other’s country for stays of up to 30 days without the need for a visa. The only stipulation is that travelers must not exceed 90 days of total stay within a year. This policy aims to enhance tourism flows and create more opportunities for people-to-people exchanges, strengthening bilateral relations between Russia and Jordan.
Positive Impacts on Tourism
The timing of the visa-waiver agreement comes as Jordan’s tourism sector is experiencing significant growth. In the first two months of 2025 alone, the country witnessed a remarkable 16.3 percent surge in tourism revenue, amounting to approximately USD 1.28 million, according to the Central Bank of Jordan. This increase was largely driven by an 18.5 percent rise in tourist arrivals, with notable contributions from international visitors, including a 15 percent growth in the number of American tourists compared to the previous year. Additionally, spending by Jordanian expatriates has also seen a 12 percent increase, indicating a robust recovery for the country’s tourism industry.
With the visa-free agreement in place, experts expect this trend to accelerate, as the removal of visa requirements will likely encourage more Russian tourists to explore Jordan’s cultural and historical sites, including the ancient city of Petra, the Dead Sea, and the Wadi Rum desert. The simplification of travel requirements will also make it easier for Jordanian citizens to visit Russia and experience its rich cultural heritage and landmarks such as the Kremlin, Red Square, and the Trans-Siberian Railway.
Russia’s Efforts to Modernize Tourism Infrastructure
Russia, on its part, is also taking proactive steps to modernize its tourism infrastructure to accommodate the expected influx of international travelers. As part of its efforts, the Russian government introduced a 1 percent tourist tax in 2025, which is set to increase to 3 percent by 2027. This tax will be used to fund the development of local tourism infrastructure, including the improvement of airports, transportation systems, and cultural institutions. The goal is to create a more seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors while supporting the growth of Russia’s tourism sector.
In addition to the new tourist tax, Russia is implementing a digital pre-arrival application process for tourists arriving without a visa. Starting June 30, 2025, travelers will be required to submit an application through the RuID mobile app at least 72 hours before their arrival. The app, which is a part of Russia’s digital infrastructure improvements, requires travelers to upload a photo, passport details, and information about their trip. Upon submission, the app will generate a QR code that travelers will need to present at the border. This system will also collect biometric data as part of the immigration process, streamlining the entry process and enhancing security measures.
Future Prospects
The visa-free travel agreement between Russia and Jordan is expected to have far-reaching effects beyond tourism. As travel becomes more accessible, there will likely be increased cultural exchanges, educational partnerships, and collaborative opportunities between businesses and governments in both countries. This will also create a favorable environment for further diplomatic relations, paving the way for additional agreements in other sectors.
With both countries prioritizing tourism as a key driver of economic growth, this partnership is a clear indication of their shared commitment to fostering international cooperation and strengthening bilateral ties. As more people take advantage of this visa-free travel opportunity, both Jordan and Russia stand to benefit from an expanded tourism market, increased cultural understanding, and strengthened connections between their citizens.
Russia and Jordan have signed a historic visa-free travel agreement, making it easier for citizens to visit each other without the need for visas for up to 30 days. This agreement aims to boost tourism, strengthen diplomatic ties, and foster cultural and economic exchange between the two nations.
The new visa-free travel agreement between Russia and Jordan is a historic development that promises to revolutionize short-term tourism between the two nations. With the removal of visa requirements for stays of up to 30 days, this agreement will likely spur a surge in travel, contributing to the growth of both countries’ tourism sectors. The timing of the deal, coupled with Russia’s ongoing investments in its tourism infrastructure, sets the stage for a new chapter in Russian-Jordanian relations. As more travelers are welcomed to both countries, this partnership will undoubtedly lead to greater opportunities for cultural exchange, tourism, and economic collaboration.
