Moroccans to travel visa-free to Russia

MOSCOW - The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed last week that Morocco was among eleven countries on the continent, alongside Tunisia and South Africa, that benefit from agreements allowing citizens to travel without visa requirements.

Tatyana Dovgalenko, Director of the Department for Partnership with Africa, said that Moscow was working to expand this list to promote tourism development.

This expansion of air travel puts Morocco in a favourable position among African destinations.

The Russian decision marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting tourism between the two countries. Morocco is now one of 11 African countries benefiting from Russia’s reciprocal visa-free travel agreement. This inclusion highlights Morocco’s increasing importance not only as a top tourist destination in North Africa, but also as a strategic partner in Russia’s foreign policy objectives on the African continent.

The visa-free agreement aims to facilitate easier and more efficient travel, which is expected to boost Moroccan tourist arrivals in Russia significantly.

From January 2026, the frequency of direct flights between Casablanca and Moscow will increase to seven weekly services, while Moroccan airline Royal Air Maroc will inaugurate a new route linking Casablanca to Saint Petersburg.

The increasing direct flight connections between Russia and Morocco are expected to position Morocco as a key gateway for Russian tourists who may also explore other parts of Africa. This development is part of Russia’s broader strategy to enhance its diplomatic ties and presence in Africa by leveraging Morocco's strategic location and stable political environment.

The cooperation between Russia and Morocco exemplifies the growing interconnectedness and partnership in the global tourism market, fostering mutual economic and diplomatic benefits.