This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the effectiveness of special economic zones (SEZs) in Russia. The study examines the approaches of Russian scientists to identifying the factors that affect the economic efficiency of various types of SEZs in the country. Individual aspects of creating favorable conditions for the successful operation of tourist zones in several countries (Turkey, the UAE, and China) are summarized. An analysis of international experience and economic indicators of Russian SEZs, primarily including investment volumes and the number of jobs created, led the author to conclude that differences in effectiveness between zone types (industrial and production, technology implementation, tourism and recreation, and port zones) are largely due to the adaptability of the preference packages provided to their development targets and industry specifics. Based on data from the Russian Ministry of Economic Development, statistical data from management companies, and regional case studies, a performance imbalance was identified: industrial zones demonstrate the highest macroeconomic indicators, while tourism and recreation zones, despite possessing significant recreational and social potential, lag in terms of attracted investment and contribution to gross domestic product (GDP). The conclusion proposes measures to optimize the preferential regime for the balanced development of all types of SEZs.