Who Is Pavel Durov? Age, Biography and Wiki
Pavel Durov, born on October 10, 1984, is a prominent Russian technology entrepreneur best known for founding the social networking site VKontakte (VK) and the instant messaging application Telegram. As of 2025, he is 40 years old. Hailing from St. Petersburg, Durov has made significant contributions to the tech industry, making him a key figure in digital communication and social networking.
Durov's journey in the world of technology began at a young age, with a passion for computing and programming. He graduated from St. Petersburg State University with a degree in philology but quickly shifted his focus to technology, leading to the creation of VK in 2006. His visionary approach has allowed him to remain relevant and influential in an ever-evolving technological landscape.
Occupation | Computer Scientist |
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Date of Birth | October 10, 1984 |
Age | 40 Years |
Birth Place | Leningrad, Soviet Union |
Horoscope | Libra |
Country |
Popularity
Pavel Durov's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While exact body measurements are often not publicly disclosed, Pavel Durov is estimated to stand at approximately 6 feet (183 cm) tall. His weight is typically around 165 lbs (75 kg). Durov maintains a lean physique, which can be attributed to his active lifestyle and focus on health and wellness.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Pavel Durov has always maintained a level of privacy regarding his personal life, which includes details about his family and relationships. As of 2025, Durov is reportedly single, with no confirmed public relationships. His dedication to his work often takes precedence over his personal life, although he remains open about the importance of friendships and connections in his life.
Durov's father Valery Semenovich Durov is a Doctor of Philological Sciences and the author of academic papers. Since 1992 he has been head of the Department of classical philology of the philological faculty of Saint Petersburg State University. In March 2022 Durov wrote that, "On my Mom's side, I trace my family line from Kyiv.
Her maiden name is Ukrainian (Ivanenko), and to this day we have many relatives living in Ukraine."
Net Worth and Salary
As one of the leading figures in the tech industry, Pavel Durov has amassed considerable wealth through his ventures. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around $4 billion. His income primarily stems from his ownership and development of Telegram, which has grown exponentially since its inception. Durov's innovative business strategies and dedication have positioned him as a multi-millionaire, making significant earnings every year.
Durov was listed on Forbes's billionaires list in 2023, with a net worth of $11.5 billion. His fortune is largely driven by his ownership of Telegram. As of 25 August 2024, Durov was the 120th richest person in the world, with a net worth of $15.5 billion, according to Forbes.
In 2022, he was recognized by Forbes as the richest expat in the United Arab Emirates. In February 2023 Arabian Business named him the most powerful entrepreneur in Dubai. Durov publicly stands for Internet freedom and criticises the establishment that tries to restrict it.
Since 2021, he has held citizenship in Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, the United Arab Emirates, and France.
Career, Business and Investments
Pavel Durov's career took off with the launch of VKontakte, which quickly became one of the most popular social media platforms in Russia and beyond. However, his most notable achievement came with the creation of Telegram in 2013. The messaging app emphasizes privacy and security, attracting millions of users globally. Under Durov's leadership, Telegram has evolved into a platform integrating various features like channels, groups, and bots, enhancing user experience.
In addition to his technology projects, Durov has shown interest in various investments, particularly in startups that align with his values of innovation and disruption. His forward-thinking approach keeps him at the forefront of the technology scene, making him a sought-after speaker and advisor in the industry.
Pavel Valeryevich Durov (born 10 October 1984) is a Russian technology entrepreneur best known as the founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of Telegram, a messaging platform launched in 2013.
Social Network
Pavel Durov is an active figure on social media, where he primarily communicates via his platforms, including Telegram itself. Although he maintains a distanced approach towards traditional social media, he uses it strategically to engage with users and promote his ideas. Through Telegram, he shares insights into his views on technology, privacy, and entrepreneurship.
During his university years, Durov created the highly popular forum spbgu.ru. In 2006, he met his former classmate Vyacheslav Mirilashvili in Saint Petersburg. Vyacheslav showed Durov the increasingly popular Facebook, after which the friends decided to create a new Russian social network.
Lev Binzumovich Leviev, an Israeli classmate of Vyacheslav Mirilashivili, became the third co-founder. Durov became chief executive officer (CEO) and attracted his older brother Nikolai, a multiple winner of international math and programming competitions including the International Mathematical Olympiad, to develop the site.
Education
Durov received his higher education at St. Petersburg State University, where he majored in philology. His academic background has influenced his approach to communication and user interaction in the tech space. Although he shifted focus away from traditional educational paths towards entrepreneurship, his education has played a foundational role in his success as a tech visionary.
Pavel Durov's grandfather Semyon Petrovich Tulyakov fought in World War II.
He served in the 65th Infantry Division of the Soviet Red Army, participated in battles on the Leningrad Front at Krasnoborsky and Gatchinsky, and was wounded three times, receiving the Order of the Red Star, the Order of the Patriotic War 2nd degree, and on the 40th Victory Day, the Order of the Great Patriotic War 1st degree.