Blog > We moved to Dilijan after the war in Ukraine started

In Yerevan nowadays for a forty square meter apartment you may pay up to 1300 dollars.

The war in Ukraine is creating unexpected consequences. What I can share, however, is what has been happening in Armenia these days, since I am still here. As we know, Western sanctions on Russia have disrupted banking transactions, leaving many Russian professionals unable to receive payments from Europe. This situation has triggered a massive migratory flow of Russian citizens to Armenia, many of whom are IT specialists or remote-working professionals. They arrive to open bank accounts and register companies.

Russian is widely spoken here, and Armenia is considered a friendly nation with strong ties to Russia. For those choosing to emigrate, it is arguably the most convenient destination.

But Yerevan has suddenly become overcrowded. It is difficult even to find a seat in an ordinary café. Rental prices have tripled. It is not uncommon for landlords to evict tenants or demand higher rents, even from those with existing contracts. A modest 40-square-meter apartment can cost as much as $1,300 per month.

At the same time, the influx of Russians has also brought new energy to the city. Many new businesses have opened — cafés, pubs, bars, cultural initiatives, concerts, and events organized by the newcomers. Some places have even been revitalized thanks to their presence.

We now live in Dilijan, in a detached house not too isolated, about 2 km from the nearest supermarket. Snow falls constantly here, and sometimes the roads become impassable for cars and taxis. Yet for now, this is what we need: a moment of peace to reflect on tomorrow. I believe Armenia has the potential to become a major hub for IT professionals, and thanks to its favorable tax system, the country could benefit greatly from this influx of highly specialized talent.

Russian developers are highly skilled, as are Armenian developers. This is a historic moment for the country, and we are all watching with curiosity to see how the situation will unfold.

Armenia’s economy has long struggled, but this moment could mark a turning point.