The Russian Federation’s Ambassador to Kuwait, H. E. Vladimir Zheltov, stated that Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Sochi are the most popular Russian cities for tourists from the Gulf, especially Kuwait. He highlighted Russia as one of the world’s top tourist destinations and noted that the introduction of direct flights between Moscow and Kuwait two years ago, via Al Jazeera Airlines, has contributed to a significant rise in Kuwaiti tourists visiting Russia, with the number reaching 15,000 last year, which is double the previous years.
In a statement to journalists, Ambassador Zheltov, speaking on the sidelines of the promotion of Sochi and the second anniversary celebration of Al Jazeera’s direct flights to Russia, noted that it has become a common sight to see Gulf tourists, along with their families, strolling through the streets of Moscow. The event was attended by Russian travel companies, Krasnodar authorities, and Al Jazeera Airlines.
Ambassador Zheltov highlighted that Sochi, a beautiful city on the southern coast of the Black Sea, is renowned for having hosted the Winter Olympics 11 years ago, further enhancing its popularity as a prime tourist destination.
Moreover, Ambassador Zheltov emphasized that, as the Russian Ambassador to Kuwait, he places great importance on tourism, noting that Gulf tourists have a unique preference. He highlighted that the southern coast of Russia is an ideal destination for them, offering a perfect blend of sea, highlands, and snow-covered mountains.
Ambassador Zheltov noted that there are currently 9 weekly flights between Kuwait and Moscow, with Jazeera Airways set to launch two weekly flights to Sochi starting June 27, with plans to increase the frequency over time. He also revealed that flights between Moscow and Kuwait will begin on May 1, 2025, and emphasized that travel to Russia has become more accessible with the introduction of electronic visas for Kuwaiti citizens.
Importantly, Ambassador Zheltov praised the growth of Russian-Kuwaiti relations across various sectors, highlighting tourism as the fastest-growing field of cooperation. He emphasized that Russia, the largest country in the world, offers a wealth of attractive destinations for Kuwaiti tourists, including St. Petersburg. Known for its rich history, culture, and imperial heritage, St. Petersburg is often referred to as the “Northern Venice.”
Ambassador Zheltov highlighted that the flight to Sochi is a quick three-hour journey from Kuwait via Al Jazeera Airways. He encouraged Kuwaitis not to miss the chance to explore this beautiful city, which serves as an attractive haven year-round, particularly during the summer months.
Furthermore, Ambassador Zheltov explained that Sochi’s selection as the host city for the 2014 Winter Olympics was no surprise, as the city has since become a popular international entertainment destination. He noted the increasing number of Gulf tourists adding Sochi to their Russia itineraries. Additionally, he emphasized that Russian laws allow foreigners to own real estate in the city.
As for visas, Ambassador Zheltov highlighted that Kuwaiti citizens can apply for a Russian visa online and receive it within three days, without the need to visit the embassy’s consular section. This visa allows a stay of up to 16 days in Russia. For stays longer than 16 days, applicants must visit the consular section to apply for a visa allowing them to stay for up to three months.
On the topic of Russian citizens visiting Kuwait, Ambassador Zheltov mentioned that while Kuwait offers 53 countries the ability to apply for an entry visa online or upon arrival, Russia is not currently included in this list. However, he noted that discussions are ongoing with Kuwaiti authorities to extend this privilege to Russian nationals.
Security Cooperation
Ambassador Zheltov discussed the growing security cooperation between Russia and Kuwait, particularly highlighting the recent visit of a Russian security delegation to Kuwait.
During the visit, the delegation participated in joint exercises with Kuwaiti Special Forces. Ambassador Zheltov noted that the Ministry of Interior regularly organizes a security competition for Special Forces, where teams from various countries compete. Last year, 26 teams took part in the competition, including a team from Russia.
Ambassador Zheltov further emphasized that Russia and Kuwait have reached an agreement to hold joint security exercises with the Special Forces, a collaboration that will be periodically welcomed. He reassured that all aspects of this cooperation are progressing positively. Regarding the use of Russian military equipment, he clarified that the agreement solely pertains to the joint security exercises, with no involvement of military equipment.
About the latest developments, Ambassador Zheltov highlighted the ongoing exchange of visits between officials from both countries, emphasizing the strengthening of diplomatic ties. He referenced the visit of Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya to Moscow, where he met with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, twice last year. He also pointed to Al-Yahya’s participation in the Russian-Kuwaiti bilateral dialogue meetings, underscoring the commitment of both nations to enhancing cooperation across various fields.
Source: Q8 Press
