Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: Moscow Metro
From January to December 2025, the capital's transport system implemented a large-scale ticket system modernization program. Key priorities included the introduction of domestically produced equipment, the expansion of biometric services, and the launch of virtual solutions for eligible categories of citizens.
Moscow metro. Moscow ticketing.
World record in biometrics
Moscow has officially secured its status as the world leader in biometric fare payment coverage. By the end of 2025, the service will be available at 100% of metro and Moscow Central Circle turnstiles.
700,000 users are already registered in the system. 192 million trips have been made using biometrics since the project's launch. No other major city in the world has implemented this technology on such a large scale.
"Today, Moscow transport is a world leader in the number of convenient payment methods. In line with Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin's mandate, we are focusing on developing cutting-edge services. For example, in 2025, biometrics became fully operational at all metro and MCC turnstiles. We are also developing this technology on the Moscow Central Diameters," noted Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry.
Infrastructure Upgrade: Faster and More Powerful
In 2025, metro stations began to implement a new generation of Russian-made equipment:
Innovative terminals: Six new-type machines have been installed at Nizhegorodskaya, Kuntsevskaya, VDNKh, and Medvedkovo stations. Thanks to modern hardware, passenger service speed has doubled. Smart turnstiles: Seven compact turnstiles have been installed at Terminal No. 1 of the Nizhegorodskaya Moscow Metro. Throughput: 40%. Operating speed: 20%. Inclusiveness: Vibration feedback and color indicators have been added for the convenience of visually and hearing-impaired passengers.
Digital services for young people and comfortable travel
The past year has seen a shift towards fully virtual solutions:
Virtual Muscovite Card: Testing of smartphone payment for students has begun. The QR code-based service will be available to all students in the Moscow Metro app as early as 2026. Automatic activation: Now you don't need to look for yellow terminals to add funds to your card. The feature is currently available on 3,000 tram validators (almost 950,000 uses per year). The technology is being scaled up to include buses and electric buses.