The recent removal of visa requirements between Russia and Jordan is expected to increase the number of Russian tourists visiting Jordan, especially among independent travelers, according to the Russian Tour Operators Association (ATOR).
“Tour operators agree that visa-free travel will have a positive impact on tourism to Jordan,” ATOR said.
Experts at Russian Express noted that while package tours already include free visas on arrival handled by the tour operator, the visa waiver will encourage more independent travelers to choose Jordan.
Corona Travel experts agree, adding that although obtaining a visa on arrival was usually straightforward, it sometimes served as a psychological barrier. The visa exemption reinforces Jordan’s image as a welcoming and safe destination.
“That said, a sudden surge in visitors isn’t likely in the short term. The biggest hurdle used to be the lack of direct flights, which has now been addressed. The visa exemption is an additional convenience, and together these factors could increase tourism by 10-15% over time,” they explained.
Growth Potential for Jordanian Visitors to Russia
Russia is also aiming to attract more visitors from Jordan, where tourism numbers remain low but promising.
“Last year, fewer than 2,000 Jordanians traveled to Russia for tourism. The visa waiver is a powerful incentive that could multiply tourist exchanges between our countries. I’m confident it will lead to a significant increase in Jordanian visitors to Russia,” said Alexander Musikhin, ATOR Vice President and CEO of tour operator Intourist.
The bilateral visa waiver agreement signed by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister Ayman Safadi allows tourists from both countries to travel without visas for up to 30 days per trip, with a maximum of 90 days in any 12-month period. Previously, Russians could obtain a visa on arrival in Jordan for up to one month at a cost of 40 Jordanian dinars (about $56).
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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Based on materials from TASS