Reform of Hotel Classification Rankings: Nizhny Novgorod Region Emerges as a Leader
As of August 8, 2025, the status of the tourist accommodation classification reform in Russia, particularly in the Nizhny Novgorod region, remains unclear. Despite general efforts to modernize and simplify tourism-related regulations, no specific updates on the reform have been confirmed.
The reform, initiated to provide more tourist choices and fair business conditions, is expected to conclude by September 1, 2025. To legally operate, all accommodation owners must complete the first stage of classification - self-assessment. This involves inputting their own data through the registry's personal cabinet.
Key changes to the classification of tourist accommodation types occurred on January 1, 2025, and now include the mandatory classification of new types of accommodations such as campgrounds, vacation bases, and glamping sites. Accurate information is crucial for tourist trust and successful industry growth, according to Sergey Yakovlev, Minister of Tourism and Crafts of the Nizhny Novgorod region.
The Nizhny Novgorod region has been named a leader in implementing the classification reform. To combat illegal advertising, the region's Ministry of Tourism and Crafts uses website monitoring and has already issued 54 warnings. Regions began monitoring compliance from March 1, and unregistered accommodations providing services receive a notice to undergo self-assessment. Non-compliance may result in a fine.
Successful completion of self-assessment results in inclusion in the registry of classified accommodations, published on the Rosakkreditation website. From September 6, penalties for registry absence and inaccurate aggregator information will apply.
Hotels and sanatoriums can move to the second stage of the classification reform, which involves acquiring a category ("star") rating. Close cooperation with businesses, as noted by Maxim Reshetnikov, Russia's Minister of Economic Development, and State Secretary-Deputy Minister Alexei Khersontsev, speeds up and enhances the reform.
Developing tourism in Russia is a key task of the national project "Tourism and Hospitality", launched in 2025. The project aims to develop infrastructure, produce equipment, train personnel for the tourism sector, promote travel within Russia, and ensure quality service and safe, convenient trips.
In conclusion, while no specific updates on the tourist accommodation classification reform in the Nizhny Novgorod region or in Russia generally have been confirmed by August 8, 2025, the reform is ongoing and expected to conclude by September 1. Further specialized or local Russian government sources would be required for precise status updates on this specific reform.
- The tourist accommodation classification reform, aimed at enhancing business conditions and providing more choices for tourists, is not only happening in the Nizhny Novgorod region but also nationwide, as part of Russia's national project "Tourism and Hospitality."
- As the reform continues, it's important for all accommodation owners in the Nizhny Novgorod region to complete the self-assessment stage and ensure their accurate information is published on the Rosakkreditation website, to foster trust among tourists and promote successful industry growth.
