Moscow's official tourism portal, Discover Moscow (discover.moscow), has expanded its language support in 2026 — with a full Arabic version launched on 2 July 2026 and a Vietnamese version added in mid-July 2026. The portal now works in six languages, chosen around the fastest-growing sources of visitors to Russia. Here is what it offers, which languages are actually supported, and how to use it alongside our guides.
What is Discover Moscow?
Discover Moscow is the official tourism information ecosystem run by the Moscow City Tourism Committee. Unlike a booking site or a private blog, it publishes city-verified information: curated routes, an events calendar, attraction and museum listings, seasonal highlights, and practical visitor tips. It is a useful first stop for checking official opening details and what is on during your dates.
Six languages — a pivot to fast-growing markets
As of July 2026 the portal is available in Russian, English, Chinese, Arabic, Turkish and Vietnamese. Notably, that list does not currently include Spanish, French or German — the city has prioritised the markets sending the most new travellers:
- Arabic (launched 2 July 2026) targets the Gulf — the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain — and is backed by Gulf-focused services such as information on prayer rooms and halal dining.
- Vietnamese (added mid-July 2026) reflects rising demand from Southeast Asia; Vietnam sent tens of thousands of visitors to Russia in 2025.
- Turkish serves one of Russia's largest and most established inbound markets.
The expansion follows a broader tourism rebound: foreign arrivals to Russia rose sharply in the first half of 2026, helped by new visa-free deals and an expanded e-visa scheme. The Russia–Saudi Arabia visa-free agreement took effect on 11 May 2026; if you are travelling from the Gulf, start with our guide to Saudi Arabia to Moscow visa-free travel for the entry rules. Travellers from Vietnam, meanwhile, can apply for a Russian e-visa that is typically processed in around four days.
What you can do on the portal
| Feature | What it's good for |
|---|---|
| Curated routes | Ready-made walking and themed itineraries around the city |
| Events calendar | Festivals, exhibitions and shows during your travel dates |
| Attractions & museums | Official listings with locations and highlights |
| Seasonal highlights | What's worth seeing right now, by time of year |
| Six languages | RU, EN, ZH, AR, TR and VI interface |
How to use it with our guides
Think of the official portal as your source for city-verified basics and event dates, and our articles as the practical, visitor-tested layer on top — how to pay, what things really cost, and how to avoid tourist traps. For timing your trip, see our guide to the best time to visit Russia, and if it is your first trip, essential tips for first-time visitors to Moscow and Moscow's best museums for first-time visitors.
When you land, a pre-booked airport transfer with a meet-and-greet driver is the easiest way to reach your hotel, especially if you are still finding your feet with the language.
Frequently asked questions
What is Discover Moscow?
It is the official tourism portal of the city of Moscow (discover.moscow), run by the Moscow City Tourism Committee, publishing city-verified routes, events, attractions and visitor tips.
What languages does Discover Moscow support?
As of July 2026 it works in six languages: Russian, English, Chinese, Arabic, Turkish and Vietnamese. The Arabic version launched on 2 July 2026 and the Vietnamese version in mid-July 2026. Spanish, French and German are not currently among the official six.
Is it an official source?
Yes. It is run by the Moscow City Tourism Committee, so it is a reliable place to check official opening details and the events calendar — though prices and hours can still change, so verify close to your visit.
Do I still need a visa to visit Moscow?
It depends on your nationality. Several countries now have visa-free access — including Saudi Arabia since 11 May 2026 — and many others qualify for the Russian e-visa. Check the rules for your country before you travel.
Does the portal replace a travel guide?
Not quite. It is excellent for official listings and event dates, but practical detail — real costs, payment tips, how to get around — is where dedicated guides add the most value.
Language availability and portal features may change over time. Sources: reporting on the Arabic Discover Moscow launch and the official portal at discover.moscow.
