In a move to strengthen ties, Jordan and Russia officially signed an agreement on August 20, 2025, allowing citizens of both countries to travel visa-free for short stays. The deal, inked by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi in Moscow, aims to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges amid growing bilateral relations.
Key Details of the Agreement
The new pact eliminates visa requirements for tourist trips lasting up to 30 days, with a total stay not exceeding 90 days in any 180-day period. This replaces the previous system where Russians could get a visa on arrival in Jordan for a fee.
Officials from both sides highlighted how this step simplifies travel and encourages more people-to-people connections. The agreement comes after months of preparations, including approval from Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in May 2025.
How the Signing Unfolded
The ceremony took place during talks in Moscow, where Lavrov and Safadi discussed broader cooperation in trade, economy, culture, and humanitarian efforts. The meeting underscored the friendly relations between the two nations, built over years of diplomatic engagement.
Photographs from the event showed the ministers shaking hands after signing, symbolizing a new chapter in their partnership. This event aligns with Russia’s push for similar visa-free deals with other countries to expand its global reach.
Safadi emphasized the need for political solutions to regional conflicts, while Lavrov reiterated Russia’s commitment to supporting stability in the Middle East.
Changes to Visa Policies
Before this agreement, Russians visiting Jordan had to obtain a visa upon arrival at airports or borders, valid for one month and costing about 40 Jordanian dinars, or roughly 56 US dollars. Jordanians, on the other hand, needed to apply for Russian visas in advance through embassies.
Now, the mutual waiver streamlines the process, making spontaneous trips easier. This is part of a trend where Russia has inked visa-free pacts with nations like Oman in July 2025, allowing up to 30 days of travel for business or tourism.
| Aspect | Previous Policy | New Agreement |
|---|---|---|
| Stay Duration for Tourists | Up to 30 days with visa on arrival for Russians; pre-approval for Jordanians | Up to 30 days visa-free for both |
| Annual Limit | No specific cap mentioned | Total 90 days per 180 days |
| Cost | 40 JOD (~$56) for Russians | Free |
| Purpose | Mainly tourism | Tourism, short visits |
Boosting Tourism and Trade Ties
Experts predict a surge in tourist numbers, with Jordan’s iconic sites like Petra and the Dead Sea drawing more Russian visitors. In 2024, Jordan welcomed over 100,000 Russian tourists, a figure expected to rise by 20 percent in 2026 due to easier access.
On the trade front, the deal could enhance business exchanges. Russia exports wheat and energy products to Jordan, while Jordan sends phosphates and agricultural goods back. Bilateral trade reached about 500 million US dollars in 2024, with potential for growth in sectors like technology and education.
- Increased flights between Amman and Moscow to accommodate demand.
- Joint cultural events, such as art exhibitions and festivals, planned for 2026.
- Opportunities for student exchanges and medical tourism.
This agreement also fits into Russia’s strategy to counter Western sanctions by building stronger alliances in the Middle East and beyond.
Broader Implications for Travelers
For everyday travelers, this means less paperwork and more flexibility. Families planning vacations can now book trips without embassy visits, saving time and money. Business professionals benefit too, as short meetings become hassle-free.
However, travelers must still follow entry rules, like having a valid passport and proof of onward travel. Overstaying could lead to fines or bans, so awareness remains key.
In a world where travel restrictions often change due to global events, this deal offers a positive shift, especially after the travel disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic and recent geopolitical tensions.
Looking Ahead to Stronger Relations
As both countries navigate regional challenges, including conflicts in the Middle East, this visa waiver serves as a bridge for dialogue and cooperation. It reflects Jordan’s efforts to attract more international visitors to revive its tourism sector, hit hard in recent years.
Russia, meanwhile, continues to expand its visa-free network, with plans for similar agreements with Bahrain and Myanmar in late 2025. This could reshape travel patterns across continents.
What do you think about this new travel ease between Jordan and Russia? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and spread the word by sharing this article with fellow travelers.
