One More African Country Plans to Launch Direct Flights to Russia and to Waive Visas for Russian Citizens

The growing interest among Russians in vacationing in Africa, Uganda has become even more active in promoting itself in the Russian tourism market. The DMCs are establishing contacts with Russian tour operators. Its national carrier, Uganda Airlines, is ready to consider launching direct flights.

At the MITT-2026 travel fair held in Moscow from March 11th  - 13th , Uganda had a separate and a quite large stand, featuring over 20 leading Ugandan tour operators, safari companies, and hotel brands.

«Our expanded participation in the exhibition demonstrates Uganda's interest in the Russian tourism market. Uganda wants to become not only an interesting country for Russians with a unique culture, nature, and wildlife, but also a convenient destination – visa-free and with direct flights. As for Russian-speaking guides, we have them, albeit in very limited numbers», - noted Ugandan Ambassador to the Russian Federation Mr. Moses Kizige.
Uganda intends to consider the possibility of waiving visa requirements for Russian tourists, as the country's authorities announced in late December 2025. Currently, visitors can apply for a 90-day e-Visa or visit the embassy.

«The Ugandan authorities are also exploring the possibility of launching direct flights to Russia. This, of course, will depend on passenger traffic; such a decision must be commercially feasible», - the ambassador said.
Additionally, Namibia, a visa-free country for Russians, participated for the first time at MITT-2026. Namibia is seriously considering expanding its presence in the Russian tourism market and is actively collaborating with tour operators, developing Russian-language services, and adapting programs for Russian tourists.

«We have seen growing interest from Russians in African destinations last years. By increasing our activity in the Russian tourism market, we are demonstrating a high interest in Russian tourists», - said Monica Nashandi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Namibia to the Russian Federation, opening a meeting with tour operators at the Namibian Embassy in Moscow.

Photo by MITT