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Serbia is quickly turning into a new hotspot for Russian tech companies and their employees, with Belgrade emerging as a key destination for IT professionals — often referred to as “IT guys.” This influx of tech talent is reshaping the country’s technology landscape and creating new opportunities for both local and international businesses.
A Shift in the Tech Landscape
Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, many Russian tech firms have been seeking more stable environments to continue their operations. Serbia has risen as one of the top choices for relocation. According to Serbia’s Business Registers Agency, by February 2022, more than 2,000 companies led by Russian nationals had registered in the country, with about two-thirds of them operating within the IT sector.
Yandex Lands in Belgrade
One of the most high-profile arrivals is Yandex, often dubbed the “Russian Google.” The company has opened a significant office in Belgrade, where it provides workspace for around 700 staff members — a mix of those relocated from Russia and local hires. Yandex’s presence marks a major milestone in Serbia’s rise as a key destination for Russian tech firms seeking stability in the face of ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.
Luxoft Expands AI Operations
Luxoft, a global IT consulting and software engineering company, is another major player that has chosen Serbia as its base. Known for developing AI systems for high-profile clients such as BMW, Luxoft has moved approximately 1,000 engineers to Serbia and plans to expand even further. The company is in discussions with the Serbian government about building residential facilities to accommodate its growing workforce, further solidifying Serbia’s position as an attractive tech hub.
Game Developers Join the Trend
Gaming giant Wargaming, famous for its blockbuster PC titles, also recognized Serbia’s potential early on and shifted part of its team there. By moving operations to Serbia, Wargaming has not only taken advantage of a stable business environment but has also contributed to the country’s expanding role as a destination for the global gaming industry.
A Growing Russian Presence in Serbia
It’s estimated that between 50,000 and 100,000 Russians have relocated to Serbia since the war began. Many have settled in major cities like Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and Kragujevac. A significant portion of these newcomers is employed in the IT sector, where their expertise is helping to propel Serbia’s growing reputation as a thriving tech hub.
Meet the ‘Aitishniki’
As Russian tech professionals integrate into Serbia’s tech ecosystem, a playful new term has emerged — aitishniki. This term, blending the English abbreviation “IT” with the Russian suffix “-shniki,” is used to describe these incoming IT experts. It symbolizes both the cultural fusion of Russian and Serbian influences and the adaptability of the tech community.
In just a few short years, these “IT guys” have become a defining feature of Serbia’s tech landscape, bringing fresh energy, talent, and new possibilities to the region. The growing presence of Russian tech companies and professionals continues to transform Serbia into an exciting, dynamic environment for the tech industry.
