If you want to attract customers from Russia or neighboring CIS countries, getting listed and optimized on Yandex.Business (Яндекс.Бизнес) is essential. Like Google Maps and Google My Business, Yandex.Business helps local users discover nearby services and shops—right when they’re ready to buy.
In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to optimize your business for Yandex’s local search, increase visibility, and drive more local traffic and leads in 2025.
What Is Yandex.Business?
Yandex.Business is the Russian equivalent of Google Business Profile. It powers Yandex.Maps, local pack results, voice assistant listings (Alice), and other hyper-local search features on Yandex.
Think of it as the tool that makes your business appear when someone in Russia searches for:
- “coffee shop near me”
- “digital agency in Moscow”
- “freelance SEO expert Russia”
If you're targeting Russian-speaking markets, listing on Yandex.Business is non-negotiable.
Recommended: When to Focus on Yandex SEO vs Google SEO?
How to Set Up a Yandex.Business Listing
Follow these steps to create and verify your local listing:
1. Create a Yandex Account
Go to passport.yandex.com and create a free account. This account will be used to manage your business listing.
2. Claim or Add Your Business
Visit Yandex.Business Manager and click “Add a company”.
You’ll be asked to provide:
- Company name (in Russian if possible)
- Business category
- Physical address (or region of operation)
- Phone number
- Website link (if available)
- Business hours
Use Russian keywords in your business description if you're targeting native speakers.
3. Verify Your Business
Yandex offers verification via:
- Phone call
- Postcard (traditional mail)
- Document upload (e.g., business license)
Choose the method that suits your setup.
Read More: What Makes Yandex Rank Websites Higher?
Optimization Tips for Local Visibility on Yandex
Once your listing is live, it’s time to optimize it for maximum visibility in local Yandex searches.
1. Complete Every Field
The more complete your profile, the better your chances of ranking.
- Add a business description using relevant Russian keywords
- Include high-quality images of your storefront, team, or workspace
- List your services or menu
- Make sure your business hours are accurate
2. Use Accurate Geo-Targeting
Yandex places huge emphasis on geographic relevance. If your business operates in Moscow, Yekaterinburg, or Kazan, make sure:
- You select the correct region during setup
- Your address is registered on Yandex Maps
- You set geo-targeting correctly in Yandex Webmaster Tools
Need help? Our Yandex SEO course walks you through geo-targeting setup, step by step.
3. Encourage Customer Reviews
Yandex’s local algorithm prioritizes reputation. More positive reviews lead to higher visibility.
Tips:
- Ask happy clients to leave reviews on your Yandex.Business listing.
- Respond to every review—good or bad.
- Keep your tone professional and friendly.
According to Yandex Support, businesses with consistent reviews see significantly better rankings in local packs.
4. Add Services and Categories
Yandex allows you to select your business category and list services. This helps the algorithm match your listing to local search intent.
Examples:
- “SMM продвижение” (SMM promotion)
- “ремонт бытовой техники” (appliance repair)
- массажист Москва” (massage therapist Moscow)
Pro Tip: Use Yandex.Wordstat to discover local keyword demand in your niche.
Read More: How Yandex SEO Differs from Google SEO
Advanced Tips for Yandex Local SEO
Want to go further? These bonus tips will give you an edge:
Use a .RU Domain
A Russian domain name builds trust and helps Yandex associate your site with the region.
Host Your Site in Russia
Yandex gives preference to Russian-hosted websites, especially in local search results.
Learn more about this in our guide: Where to Host Your Website for Better Yandex SEO →
Embed Yandex Maps on Your Site
Just like Google Maps, embedding Yandex Maps can enhance local relevance. Use their Maps Constructor tool.
Also Read: Why Yandex SEO Is Essential for Russian Market Entry?
FAQ's About Yandex.Business Optimization
Is Yandex.Business free to use?
Yes, it’s completely free to set up and manage.
Can international businesses use Yandex.Business?
Yes, but you’ll need a Russian address or service area to appear in local results.
Does Yandex show mobile search results differently?
Yes. Mobile-first results include business ratings, buttons to call, and directions via Yandex.Maps.
Final Thoughts: Be Seen by Local Searchers
Getting found locally on Yandex can drive serious traffic and trust—especially if you’re targeting the Russian market.
Whether you're a digital agency, eCommerce business, or local service provider, your presence on Yandex.Business is a key competitive advantage.
Want to rank higher and attract more Russian customers?
We show you how, step by step, inside our Yandex SEO Course
