Russian outbound tourism hit new highs in 2024, with a 15–25% growth compared to the previous year. Below is the latest data and top destinations for Russian travelers in 2024–2025.
General Trends
According to the Russian Border Service, more than 29 million outbound trips were made in 2024, with 11.5 million classified as tourism — a 25% increase from 2023.
The Association of Tour Operators Russia (ATOR) estimates 17.4 million trips — up 15.4%.
After three quarters of 2024, outbound tourism grew by 23.2%, indicating a stable recovery and rising interest.
Top 10 Destinations (2024)
| Country | Trips | Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey | ~6.7 million | +6% |
| UAE | 1.99 million | +15.6% |
| China | 1.9 million | +96.5% |
| Thailand | 1.7 million | +17.8% |
| Egypt | 1.48 million | +15.3% |
| Abkhazia | 1.5 million | +7.1% |
| Vietnam | 232K | +84.9% |
| Maldives | 225K | +7.7% |
| Sri Lanka | 202K | +2.2% |
| South Korea | 195K | +25.9% |
These 10 destinations account for 88% of all Russian outbound tourism, according to ATOR.
Emerging Destinations
Japan is gaining traction fast. Tourist numbers may double in 2025 due to visa simplification and flexible entry rules.
Interest in CIS countries is rising: Georgia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan expand their tourism offerings.
Europe is returning as a top destination. Summer bookings in Italy, France and Spain rose 35–65% in early 2025.
Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic also draw attention — due to increased transit and relaxed visa policies.
Why Is the Outbound Market Growing?
- Economic stabilization: rising incomes fuel demand for travel.
- Easier visas: no visa with UAE and Turkey, simplified with India and Japan.
- Digital readiness: QR payments, crypto and online booking increase flexibility.
- Shift in preferences: tourists now seek culture, wellness and unique experiences.
- Interest in nature: safaris, eco-tours, mountains, lakes and jungles are rising in popularity.
How to Use These Trends
- Tour agencies: localize services, offer Russian-language support, integrate with digital platforms and crypto payments.
- Destinations: focus on history, food, wellness and creative routes to attract Gen Z and millennials.
- Marketing: visual content, photo spots and family-friendly packages work best.
Conclusion
Russian outbound tourism grew by up to 25% in 2024. Turkey remains the top destination, but China, Vietnam and South Korea are rising. Europe and the Americas are returning. With more mindful travel and tech-savvy consumers, the Russian market is evolving — and could reach $100 billion by 2035.
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