AZERBAIJAN TRAVEL

Tourism in Azerbaijan has been busy for centuries - just look at all the caravanserais that held travelers moving along the Silk Road. Azerbaijan today is a unique combination of the many cultures and empires that have passed through, as well as home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes of the Caucasus. Whether you want to explore the most modern corners of cities or escape into the mountains or beaches, Azerbaijan has something to offer. 

Baku is Azerbaijan’s capital and largest city, built around the fortified Icheri-Sheher. Walk through the narrow alleys and discover the many sights around every corner, or enjoy the broad promenades and world-class establishments of the more modern parts of the city. You’ll find for yourself that Baku is a charming city on par with many other world metropolises. Explore the history of Azerbaijan at the Palace of the Shirvanshahs, and climb the Maiden Tower to see Baku in full. And for something beyond tourist sites, try some shopping through Baku’s pedestrian streets or a meal at one of the fine restaurants throughout the city, serving both traditional Azerbaijani food and international classics. 

Head out of the city for even more of Azerbaijan. Be amazed by the detailed workmanship at the Palace of Shaki Khans, wander through the otherworldly mud volcanoes in the Gobustan Reserve, or climb the mountains to reach Khinalug, the highest village in Europe. Naftalan is home to petroleum spas, where there are unique oil baths, or spend some time relaxing on the beaches of the Caspian Sea or the slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. Shamakhi was an ancient capital of Azerbaijan, and today’s rebuilt buildings are great examples of modern Islamic architecture. 

Azerbaijan’s rich culture is on display at any of the country’s many museums, from the large museums of the country’s capital to the smaller regional museums, full of character. Learn about local and regional history, carpet making, nature, and more, and then head out and experience it for yourself. See how the patterns of nature ended up in the carpets of Quba, or how the flavors of southern Azerbaijan influenced the top restaurants in Baku. 

From 28 meters (92 ft) below sea level to 4,466 m (14,652 ft) above sea level, Azerbaijan’s nature has plenty to explore. In the north of the country are the Great Caucasus Mountains, home to the best ski resorts and extreme mountain landscapes. In the center of the country are rolling hills covered in forest and deserts, broad and open. And don’t forget the seashore. Even though the Caspian Sea is technically the largest lake in the world, there’s plenty of space for watersports and relaxing on the beach. 

Azerbaijan is all about extremes: ancient and modern, natural and man-made, minimal and intricate. You’ll definitely want to experience Azerbaijan for yourself, with a tour that fits your needs and allows you to explore your interests in this beautiful country. 

Historical Tourism

Azerbaijan is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, plus a number of other important places that have been considered for inclusion in the World Heritage Sites list. Right in the center of Baku is Icheri-Sheher, the walled city that once housed the entire population of Baku. Wander through the narrow alleys of the city to experience how it would have looked to the medieval residents who walked the same streets. The other site is Gobustan, home to hundreds of thousands of petroglyphs depicting ancient life. Go beyond the obvious with trips to Sheki, Khinalug, Ateshgah, or to the many fortresses and temples that were staples of life in the region for centuries. Azerbaijan’s rich history can be explored at the many historical destinations across the country. Sheki and Shamakhi were capitals of empires that existed centuries ago, and their former imperial glory lives on in the historical sites and their surroundings. 

Cultural Heritage Tourism

Baku is famous for its cultural life, but that’s not to say that the rest of the country doesn’t have its own charms. A visit to the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum and excursions to carpet workshops (Quba has a thriving workshop) will make anyone an expert of carpets and the various regional types found around Azerbaijan. Art lovers will appreciate the Museum of Modern Art or the National Museum of Art, and theater lovers will find plenty to do in Baku. Some famous historical sites also have a cultural aspect, such as the isolated and unique culture of Khinalug and the excellent craftsmanship of Sheki. UNESCO has recognized copper making in Lahic, silk scarves, carpet weaving, mugham and tar as Intangible Cultural Heritage, but this is only a start when it comes to exploring Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage. 

Food Tourism

Azerbaijan’s cuisine is a mix of a variety of sources from east and west. Be sure not to miss juicy, smoky kebabs or richly filled kutabs, stuffed with meat and greens and folded into a half circle. Some dishes can be found in other countries, like dolma (grape leaves stuffed with meat and rice) and baklava (layers of dough filled with honey), but even then, Azerbaijan adds its own spin and style to these more common dishes. People in Azerbaijan also love their teas and soups. Try a cold soup with yogurt (dovga) or a traditional hot lentil soup, followed by tea served with sweets and jams. Baku is filled with world-class restaurants, but head out of the capital to discover each region’s speciality dish and more traditional recipes. 

Adventure and Nature Tourism

From the shores of the Caspian Sea (which actually lie below sea level) to the heights of the Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan offers a variety of natural destinations. Summer is a great time to relax by the beach, with a variety of seashore resorts on the Caspian Sea, while winter is the perfect season for a stay at a ski resort in the mountains. There are also national parks that are great for hikes and even longer trips, while picnicking has long been a treasured tradition. Take care of your health, rest and relax, or try something new and exciting by heading out into Azerbaijan’s nature.

Full name of the country: Republic of Azerbaijan 
Area: 86,600 sq km. 
Population: about 9.6 million 
Capital: Baku 
People: 90% - Azerbaijanis, 2% - Lezgians, 1.3% - Russians, 5.1% - other nations
Language: Azeri 
Religion: Moslems, mostly Shiites. 
State system: republic 
Branches of national economy: natural gas and petrochemical, metallurgical, cotton cleaning. 
Major cities: Ganja, Sumgait , Mingechevir, Lankaran, Agdam, Nakhchivan, Khachmaz, Quba, Shamakhi 
Natural resources: oil, gas, copper, polymetals, alunites, gold 
Main agricultural crops: cotton, fruits, silk 
National currency - Azerbaijani manat. More...

History of Azerbaijan

The history of Azerbaijan as a state is approximately 5 thousand years old. The first state bodies on the territory of Azerbaijan appeared in late 4,000 - early 3,000 BC. In 1,000 BC there existed Manna, Iskim, Skit, Scyth and such strong states as the Caucasian Albania and Atropatena. These states played a big role in strengthening the culture of government, in the history of economic culture of the country as well as in the uniform nation formation.

In the 3rd century AD Azerbaijan was occupied by the empire of Iranian Sasanids and in the 7th century by Arabian Khalifat. The invaders populated the country with numerous Iranians and Arabs. With the introduction of Islamic religion in the 7th century there occurred the important breakthrough in the history of Azerbaijan . Islam greatly facilitated the formation of uniform nation, language, customs and etc. among Turkic and not Turkic peoples on the territory of Azerbaijan .

Azerbaijan witnessed new political development: on Azerbaijan lands united by Islam the states of Sadzhids, Shirvanshahs, Salarids, Ravvadidso and Sheddadids were established. It was the beginning of the Renaissance of Azerbaijan history. Late 15th - early 16th might be considered as the new milestone in the history of Azerbaijan . An outstanding statesman Shakh Ismail Hatai managed to unite all northern and southern Azerbaijani lands under hi rule. As result Sefevid state with capital in the city of Tabriz was created which later turned into one of the most powerful empires in the Middle East.

Nadir-shakh, an outstanding Azerbaijani commander who came to power after the fall of Sefevid state even more expanded the boundaries of the former empire. This Azerbaijani ruler in 1739 conquered Northern India, including Delhi. However, after the death of Nadir-shakh the empire collapsed. Thus, in the second half of the 18th century Azerbaijan broke up into smaller states - khanates and sultanates. In the end of the 18th century Iran was under the rule of Gadzhars, an Azerbaijani dynasty. They began to pursue the policy of placing all territories of the former Nadir-shakh empire and Azerbaijan khanates under centralized rule.

That was how the epoch of long wars between Gadzhars and Russia, which strived to conquer the southern Caucasus, began. As a result, on the basis of Gjuljustan (1813) and Turkmenchaj (1828) traeties Azerbaijan was divided between the two empires: Northern Azerbaijan was attached to Russia, and its southern part - to Iran.

This period marks the start of the genocide of Azerbaijanians from the part of Armenian neighbors. The fight for freedom in Northern Azerbaijan was very intense. Due to the assistance from Turkey the liberation movement won, and in 1918 the first democratic republic in the Orient right in Northern Azerbaijan - the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) was founded . 

Its existence was brief, though. On April 28, 1920 it was announced about the creation of the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic (Azerbaijan SSR) on the territory of the ADR. In December 1922 Azerbaijan , Georgia and Armenia formed the Transcaucasian Socialist Federal Soviet Republic . In 1922 it became a part of the USSR , and in 1936 the TSFSR was dismissed, and Azerbaijan SSR joined the USSR as an independent republic which existed until 1991.

However, the modern history of Azerbaijan contains one more significant page - Armenia - Azerbaijan conflict over annexation of the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Republic . Having declared itself (on October 8th, 1991 ) an independent democratic state, Azerbaijan after the fierce military combat actions lost its 6 areas, including Nagorno-Karabah Autonomous Region. In 1994 the countries signed the cease-fire treaty.

On August 30th, 1991 Azerbaijan became an independent state.

Azerbaijan Sights

Every city, every corner in Azerbaijan has something special to offer. The centre of ancient Quba Khanate – city of Quba, is famous for its medieval fortresses and mosques. One of the oldest cities is Sheki that is well known for magnificent palaces some of which are today transformed into luxurious hotels.

Azerbaijan will amaze you with its natural conditions: there are seashore and rivers, mountains ranges and plains, semi-deserts and forests on the territory of the country. You will see the most beautiful sceneries, waterfalls and rivers, springs with crystal clear water, deep gorges, green lawns, thermal and mineral springs, and pure mountain air. Special attention should be paid to Tengi canyon, Afurjin waterfall and the Gobustan reserve included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Tourists rest in the resort areas of the Caspian Sea, enjoy diving, do waterskiing, biking and boating. Those who wish to improve and strengthen health may choose one of numerous sanatoriums of Azerbaijan. Through its unique microclimate, Lenkoran and Talysh are considered one of the best balneological resorts.

Azerbaijan sights will satisfy the most demanding traveler. You will see rock inscriptions and mud volcanoes of Gobustan reserve, The Maiden Tower and Primorskiy Boulevard in Baku, visit the shores of Absheron and the temple of fire-worshippers Ateshgah, be delighted of the richness of Sheki Khan Palace and the rigidity of Khinaliq settlement. As the memory of the trip to this unique country, you will have famous Quba carpets, inimitable Azerbaijan wine, high quality silk, gold jewelry and many other souvenirs.

Population and language of Azerbaijan

Population and language

The population of Azerbaijan exceeded 9.574 million as of November 1, 2014.
According to estimates 91,6% of the population of the Republic are Azerbaijanis, 8,4% are representative of other nationalities. Among them are Russians – 1,3%, Lezgins – 2,0%, Talysh – 1,3%. The rest of the population is made up of Avars, Turks, Tatars, Ukrainians, Tsakhurs, Georgians (Ingiloys), Kurds, Tats and representatives of other nationalities. 
Urban residents comprised 53,1% of the whole population as of 1 July 2013, with the rural population of 46,9%. Expected lifespan (2008) in Azerbaijan is 72,6 years, for men – 69,9 years and women – 75,4 years.

Azerbaijani language

The state language of Azerbaijan belongs to the Oguz sub-group (together with Gagauz, south coast dialect of Crimean-Tatar, Turkish and Turkmen languages) of the south-west branch of Turkic languages, but has features typical of languages of Kipchak area.

Modern Azerbaijani language has different dialects:

- Eastern group (Baku, Quba, Shamakhi dialects, also Lankaran and Mugan dialects);
- Western group (Ganja, Gazakh, Karabakh and Ayrum dialects);
- Northern group (Sheki and Zaqatala-Qakh dialects);
- Southern group (Nakhchivan, Ordubad dialects).

There are its own dialects in Azerbaijani language that are widespread in Iran, Iraq, Russia (Dagestan), Georgia and Turkey. According to various estimations, the general number of ethnic Azerbaijanis make up 35 to 50 mln people around the world.

The Day of Azerbaijani alphabet and language is annually celebrated on 1 August.

Azerbaijan Nature

Azerbaijan’s varied landscapes are home to an impressive variety of flora, fauna, and even just beautiful spots to discover. Azerbaijan’s nature is defined by the waters of the Caspian Sea, the peaks of the Caucasus Mountains, with the rich valleys and forests that lie in between. Despite some severe destruction during Soviet times, nature in Azerbaijan is now under the protection of the government, and nature reserves keep the most amazing sights safe for generations to come. The higher elevations are dominated by mountain peaks and thick forests, while the lower elevations are grasslands and desert.

The Caspian Sea is the world’s largest lake, home to numerous species of plants and animals. Sturgeons and sturgeon caviar from the Caspian Sea are popular in restaurants, as are other types of fish. Seagulls, turtles, and seals can also be found in the Caspian Sea, and in ancient times, dolphins used to live in the sea. The wetlands and rich shores around the Caspian Sea are beneficial for Azerbaijan’s nature, and the beaches and protected areas are perfect for visitors.

The Caucasus Mountains are known for their forbidding profile and spectacular landscapes. The lower slopes have thick forests, but at higher altitudes, the landscape is dominated by sparse plains and rocky peaks. Wolves, bears, deer, wild goats and large cats can be found in the more isolated areas, and though cheetahs, tigers and lions used to roam the slopes, they went extinct long ago. In the winter, heavy snowfall makes for great skiing, and there are several ski resorts in the high mountains. In the summer, people use the more calm parts of Azerbaijan’s nature and mountains for picnicking and hiking.

Central Azerbaijan is part of the drainage basin of the Kura River. This river starts in Turkey, then crosses Georgia before flowing through the broad valley between the Greater and Lesser Caucasus Mountains in Azerbaijan. At higher elevations there are meadows in this valley, whereas lower elevations can be semi-deserts. Though there used to be forests along the riverbanks, today there are mostly farms. There are also some important wetlands as the Kura reaches the Caspian Sea, home to birds and other wildlife.

The most important and fragile natural places in Azerbaijan have become state parks and national parks. Plane tree forests, mud volcanoes, glaciers, deserts, and lakes are all under the protection of the park system, including some of the most unique and interesting natural formations in Azerbaijan. In recent years, more areas have become state or national parks, and even existing parks have been expanded to protect more territory. Gobustan State Reserve and Absheron National Park aren’t far from Baku, whereas other parks are in deeper and more isolated parts, protecting more untouched areas.

Geography of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan’s geography covers a diverse collection of landscapes, from wetlands to high mountains, deserts to fertile valleys. The center of the country is taken up by a broad valley, centered around the Kura River. This valley is bordered to the north by the Greater Caucasus Mountains, and to the south by the Lesser Caucasus Mountains, and opens in the east to the Caspian Sea. The highest point in Azerbaijan is Bazarduzu Dagi, at 4,467 m (14,656 ft), and the lowest point is - 28 m (-92 ft), in the Caspian Sea.

The Caspian Sea is home to many species of fish, and the shores hold important wetlands, where numerous species of birds live. Even though the Caspian Sea is called a sea, it’s actually the largest lake in the world. Long ago, it was connected to other seas (like the Mediterranean), though plate tectonics separated it about 5 million years ago. Now, the Caspian Sea is fed by great rivers, including the Kura, which flows through Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan. This keeps water flowing in, though the only way for water to leave is by evaporation. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind any salts or minerals, which is why the Caspian Sea is salty (though it’s not as salty as the oceans). The Caspian Sea is also located below sea level, making Azerbaijan’s lowest point 28 meters (92 ft) below sea level. There are beaches and resorts on the shores that are especially popular in the summer, as people come to swim and escape the summer heat. The Caspian Sea is also home to large oil reserves, and the first offshore oil wells in the world were built near Baku.

Heading west from the Caspian Sea, the easiest route follows the Kura River. This river starts in the mountains of Turkey, then crosses Georgia, gains water from rivers in Armenia (without ever crossing into the country), before crossing Azerbaijan to flow into the Caspian Sea. There is a dam near Mingachevir, creating the Mingachevir Reservoir, the largest lake in Azerbaijan. The land around the Kura River is irrigated and relatively fertile, though there are also large semi-desert areas in the flatter parts of Azerbaijan.

The geography in Azerbaijan is dominated by the mountains. With the Greater Caucasus in the northern part of the country, and the Lesser Caucasus in the southern part, there are a variety of mountain landscapes. The Caucasus Mountains are part of a larger system that spans from Europe to Asia, and indeed the watershed of the Caucasus Mountains forms the official border between Europe and Asia. Lots of snow and rain falls in the Caucasus Mountains, with this precipitation being the source of much of the drinking water in the region. The lower slopes are home to richer deciduous forests (with oak, maple and ash trees), and higher slopes are home to more pine forests, and glaciers and open areas at the highest of elevations.

Culture of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan culture is tightly bound with the history, religious beliefs, national traditions and values of the country. Its history goes back to primitive times, passes through pagan temples, monumental architectural constructions of the early Medieval Ages, relates to the Islamic culture, reflects the influence of Russian traditions and brings this legacy to the modern world.

Rock carvings

Gobustan petroglyphs describe an ancient Azerbaijan culture in manuscripts that reached us through millennia. Already in the Mesolithic Era, unknown artists captured significant moments of community life on stones. The drawings reflected hunting, environment, ritual customs, dances and others. Stone and ceramic figures of people and animals have been preserved dating back to the epoch of Neolithic. There are remains of the ceramic dishes of that period in the museum archives discovered on the territory of the modern Azerbaijan.

Islamic culture

Culture of Azerbaijan has also been formed under the influence of Islamic traditions. During the period of Arab conquest, many architectural constructions have appeared: mosques, mausoleums, minarets. Geometrically correct shapes of the buildings were adorned with exquisite patterns and arches. Later t regional schools were established; each region had its unique style. For instance, sculptors of Nakhichevan paid more attention to the finishing of the buildings using ceramics. Masters of shirvan-apsheron school would stand out with succinct combination of architectural forms and smooth walls.

Islamic culture of Azerbaijan flourished in the period of the Seljuk state. Today tourists enjoy the rich legacy inherited from the architects of that time: mausoleum in Juga, Momina-khatun mausoleum, Yusuf ibn Kesseyir mausoleum. Famous Maiden Tower in Baku was also constructed in the times of Seljuks. Few centuries later, the stone legacy was replenished by Nardaran fortress, round castle (Mardakyan), “Bail rocks” and others. Ceramic schools of Azerbaijan, namely Bailakan and Ganja, were born in that period. Classics of Persian literature and poetry had a great impact on the Azerbaijan art. Namely, Shirvani, Ganjavi and of course, Nizami with his well-known cycle of five poems “Khamsa”.

Applied arts

Azerbaijan traditions found its reflection in the décor interior: house walls of wealthy people were decorated with exquisite patterns with elements of planting motives. Carpets were indispensable attribute of each house regardless of the welfare of its owner. Azerbaijan carpets are still a signature of the country as well as the most spread local craft. Thanks to popularity of this applied art in Azerbaijan, there are several schools of carpet weaving known beyond the country. The best exhibits adorn private collections and halls of the famous museums of the world.

Azerbaijan national costume deserves a special attention. Clothing elements and range of colors differed from region to region. But in general, the costume highlighted modest charm of women and natural strength of men, as well as Azerbaijan customs. Jewelry art of Azerbaijan has elements of traditional Arab décor, but has distinguishing marks. They are mostly big in size and elegant with filigree articles, enamel and precious stones.

Music and Theater

Music culture of Azerbaijan is so significant that traditional mugams (folk musical compositions) are enlisted in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage and compositions of Azerbaijan authors are played in concert halls of the whole world. Development of Azerbaijan music is tightly connected to the history of Azeri literature and poetry. As mugam is an art that combines epics of eastern poets and a musical improvisation in a particular local way.

A special highlight of Azerbaijan culture is theatrical art. Its history encounters many centuries, originating as a folk theatre. Simple scenes showed life of working people mixed with Azerbaijan traditions and customs. On public holidays and outdoor merrymaking, theatrical groups organized small satirical staging that reflected moral values. It is no surprise that with such a rich history, Azerbaijan theatre today offers plays in different styles and outstanding performance.

Diversity of Azerbaijan culture is just a small part of the great legacy that this beautiful Land of Fire conceals. In the journey, make sure to touch spiritual piece of Azerbaijan to get a deeper insight into its history, values and life. 

Azerbaijan Traditions

Azerbaijan’s traditions cover all the phases of life, from birth to death, plus annual holidays and other general practices. These traditions dictated how to meet guests, join families in marriage, spend free time, and how to present one’s self in society. Even though some traditions have been lost to time, and some are only practiced at large events or during holidays, Azerbaijani traditions are still important to people and their lives.

There are a variety of influences on Azerbaijan’s traditions. Several religions have long histories in Azerbaijan, including Zoroastrianism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, both Sunni and Shi’a. Azerbaijan has also been influenced by the many merchants who passed through on the Silk Road, as well as the ever-changing waves of empires and conquerors.

The traditions in Azerbaijan make for an interesting trip, full of unique experiences and impressions of this rich country. Even if you don’t travel during a holiday or attend a celebration, Azerbaijan’s traditions can still be felt when traveling through the country.

Hospitality

Guests are given places of honor in Azerbaijani traditions, and treated with the utmost respect. If you have the chance to meet or stay with a family in Azerbaijan, you’ll definitely be able to experience this for yourself. Hospitality traditions in Azerbaijan go back a long ways, but there are also modern ways that families today welcome guests. Read more...

Wedding

Traditionally, Azerbaijani weddings are a long affair, from matchmaking to courtship, engagement, to wedding. Weddings were an important time, when to families came together, and so there are plenty of rites and ceremonies that were part of traditional weddings. Even modern weddings incorporate Azerbaijani traditions, though they have a modern and international feel. Read more...

Novruz

Novruz (or Nowruz) is the biggest holiday in Azerbaijan, taking up almost a whole month in the spring. If you want to visit and experience the most traditions in Azerbaijan at the same time, Novruz is an excellent time to book your trip. The biggest celebrations are on March 21, the spring equinox, but there are plenty more traditions to learn about and see for yourself. Read more...

Gulesh

Beyond celebrations and food, gulesh is another important part of Azerbaijani culture. This type of wrestling includes music and dances, plus important ceremonies before beginning a bout. Gulesh today is one of the more popular traditions in Azerbaijan, with wrestling gyms around the country. Read more...

Clothes

Although most people today wear modern clothing, traditional Azerbaijani clothing can still be seen at festivals and other events. There are a lot of different items of mens and womens clothing, all designed to be comfortable yet flattering. The types of patterns, cloth and colors are all important parts of Azerbaijani traditions, and can tell a lot about the culture and history of the country. Read more...

Dances

One of the most energetic and vivid parts of traditions in Azerbaijan, dances are created to tell stories, be performed at ceremonies, and impress audiences. Azerbaijani dances are sure to be full of life and energy, and will remain one of the most vivid memories of your time in the country. Read more...

Childbirth

Bringing a new life into the world is a big life event, and childbirth in Azerbaijan is no exception. There are plenty of Azerbaijani traditions related to childbirth, especially traditions that are meant to ensure the health and success of the mother and child. Read more...

Handicrafts in Azerbaijan

Nearly every city in Azerbaijan could be called a city of craftsmen. In the past, each city was a center for artisans and masters, with weavers, jewelers, blacksmiths, carvers and embroiderers setting up shop and developing their crafts. Azerbaijan was in the perfect location for artisans, with travelers and merchants coming from far and wide. Azerbaijan was right on the Silk Road, between Russia and Iran, so there was a rich trade and plenty of movement. Azerbaijan’s artisans and craftsmen could learn new techniques from their neighbors and trade for new materials.

Even though professional artisans took Azerbaijani handicrafts to new heights, many products were originally made at home. Carpet designs, embroidery patterns, and metalworking techniques were first learned at home. Different regions developed their own patterns and styles, which were then passed down through generations. Daughters often learned how to make carpets and other textiles from their mothers, and from a young age they would start making items for their new homes, whereas sons would receive carpets made by their mothers after their wedding. Homes would be richly decorated with carpets and embroideries, which would not only make them more comfortable but would keep rooms warm during the winter. Azerbaijan’s carpets and textiles are full of so much history and culture that they have been designated a Masterpiece of Intangible Heritage by UNESCO.

Though many Azerbaijani handicraft traditions were lost in the Soviet era, they are being brought back in the modern day. Places like the Quba Carpet Workshop have revived techniques used to make traditional carpets, plus designs that were used centuries ago and lost to time. Lahij is once again filled with the hammering of copper masters, as it was during the height of the Silk Road. Many traditional handicrafts also make good souvenirs, since they feature so many unique colors and patterns, and souvenir shops around the country are full of Azerbaijani handicrafts.

Azerbaijani Cuisine

Varied and distinctive cuisine of Azerbaijan

Pilaf with fragrant saffron, juicy kebabs roasted over coals, freshly-caught fish, and sweet fruit and honey for dessert - Azerbaijan’s cuisine is full of flavors and surprises. The cuisine in Azerbaijan is a vital part of the country and its culture. The flavors and ingredients used reflect the foods that can be grown or found in Azerbaijan, as well as the trading connections that brought new tastes to the Caucasus from far and wide. Even the cooking techniques used reflect the local lifestyle and customs, and the names of the dishes in Azerbaijani cuisine come from the terms used in Azerbaijani.

Hospitality is a large part of Azerbaijani culture, and cuisine is no exception. Guests are treated to an abundance of dishes, and turning down more and more servings can be seen as rude (even if you’re too full to eat more). Food holds a sacred place, and sharing food with another person creates a strong bond. Food culture is so rich that dolma (stuffed grape leaves) and its central place in Azerbaijani culture and families have been recognized in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Many dishes are delicious and healthy, which is why Azerbaijan is a country of centenarians. Beef and mutton are common, as are poultry, fish, fruits and vegetables. Spices include dill, coriander, mint, chives and basil can be found in many of the dishes, giving them full and rich flavors. The result is a wide variety of dishes that are substantial and nutritious, full of familiar and unusual flavors.

But don’t think that this is a whole list - there are endless foods to try in Azerbaijan. Whether you want a hearty soup (like piti) or a quick snack (kutab) or something to satisfy a sweet tooth (baklava), you’ll find plenty to explore. And the more you travel around Azerbaijan, the more you’ll discover, since each region (and each cook) has their own recipes that bring out new flavors and delights.

Azerbaijan Holidays and Memorial Dates

Azerbaijan Holidays and Memorial Dates Calendar

1 January - New Year
20 January - Martyrs' Day
2 February - Day of Youth 
26 February - Day of Remembrance for Victims of Khojaly massacre
8 March - International Women's Day
21 March - Novruz Bairam
9 May - Victory Day
28 May - Day of Republic
15 June - Day of National Salvation
26 June - Day of National Army
15 September - Day of Knowledge 
20 September - Day of Azerbaijani oil 
18 October - Independence Day
12 November - Constitution Day
17 November - Day of National Revival
31 December - International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis

Religious holidays – Ramazan Bairam, Gurban Bairam.

Main Azerbaijan Holidays and Memorial Dates

Azerbaijan is a multinational country with its ancient traditions where holidays play a very significant role in the people’s life. Furthermore, when Azerbaijan obtained the independence it established new memorable days and dates which became public holidays of the country. All the holidays in Azerbaijan can be divided into national, professional and religious ones.

The national holidays are official days-off in the country. They are as follows: New Year, International Women’s Day, Victory Day, Republic Day, National Salvation Day, Azerbaijan Armed Forces Day, International Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis. 

It should be noted that Independence Day of Azerbaijan, Constitution Day and National Revival Day though holidays are still working days.

Out of religious holidays of Azerbaijan, Kurban Bayram (a feast of sacrifice), Ramazan Bayram (a holiday after fasting), Novruz Bayram should be specially noted. Novruz is a holiday of the nature renewal and fertility. It is observed in Azerbaijan from ancient times, when its population professed Zoroastrianism. Religious holidays in Azerbaijan are public holidays and celebrated several days. Novruz is officially celebrated from 21 to 24 March.

In addition to the holidays, Azerbaijan also observes memorable days such as Martyrs’ Day, which is also a public holiday. Besides them, memorable days of special importance for Azerbaijan are: Day of Youth in Azerbaijan, Day of Remembrance for Victims of Khojaly massacre, Day of Knowledge, Day of Azerbaijani oil etc.

Azerbaijan holidays are celebrated in the bosom of relatives and friends. Public open air celebrations are held and fireworks are let off during the days of the national holidays.

Religion in Azerbaijan

Religions in contemporary Azerbaijan

According to the Constitution, Azerbaijan is a secular state, so the religious life is disestablished from the secular one. Many religious confessions co-exist there, since Azerbaijan is a multinational country inhabited by numerous ethnic groups. In spite of this fact, the prevailing religion in Azerbaijan is still Shia Islam.

Religious beliefs in the territory of Azerbaijan have a long history. Zoroastrianism, dominated in the territory of the country in the I millennium BC under Akheminids and Sasanids, was considered a state religion of the Persian Empire (Azerbaijan was a part of this state by that time). Even now Zoroastrianism is popular among the local people. One of the most respected holidays is considered Novruz Bayrami.

Islam is the main religion of Azerbaijan. 99.2 percents of the country’s population are Muslims. About 85 percents of Azerbaijani Muslims profess Shia Islam while 15 percents are Sunni Muslims. Such division is directly connected with the fact that for a long time a part of Azerbaijan was a member of Iran, the only country where the state religion is considered Shia Islam.

Religious movements and confessions in Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, there are three large Jewish communities: the mountain Jews, Ashkenazi Jews, and Georgian Jews. There are 6 synagogues operating in the Azerbaijan’s capital as well as in cities of Guba and Oguz, there are also Jewish cultural centers and religious organizations functioning in the republic. The synagogue opened in Baku city on 9 March 2003 is considered one of the largest in Europe.

The history of Christianity in Azerbaijan numbers almost 2,000 years and directly connected with the name of Bartholomew, one of the Jesus Christ’s 12 apostles. He was the first to read evangelical preaching in the lands of Azerbaijan that is why he was executed in 71 AD in the territory of modern Baku not far from the Maiden Tower. Over a period of two thousand years his death’s place has been a sacred space for all Christians.

Both orthodox and catholic churches operate in the country. At present moment Azerbaijan has 5 operating orthodox churches with three of them Holy Myrrhbearers Cathedral, Blessed Virgin Mary Church и Church of Michael the Archangel located in Baku.

Catholicism began spreading in Azerbaijan from the XIV century when the country was flooded with a stream of missionaries from different Catholic missions: Dominicans, Carmelites, and Franciscans. The foundation of the first Catholic church – Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary's Immaculate was laid in the beginning of the XX century. In 2002 Azerbaijan was visited by the principal of Catholic Church supreme pontiff John Paul II. At present time the Catholic confession in Azerbaijan is few – about 500 people. In addition to the orthodox and catholic Christians , there are 25 small communities of Protestant-Baptists in Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan National Currency

Manat – National Currency of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan firstly issued its own currency in 1919. Strive of young Azerbaijan Democratic Republic to introduce its national currency in the international arena was expressed that the highest denomination of 500 manats was written in international French language.

The next time the currency was issued in 1920 with the name of Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic, but later in 1923 Azerbaijan became part of Transcaucasian Soviet Federal Socialist Republic and the control over banking system of Azerbaijan moves to Moscow. In 1936, according to the Constitution of USSR, Azerbaijan joined the Soviet Union and ruble became the only currency.

The new page in the history of currency circulation in the country began upon restoration of independence of Azerbaijan. The President of Republic of Azerbaijan issued a decree on national currency on 15th of July, 1992.
National currency was put into circulation on 15th of August 1992, and from 1st of January 1994 the head of the country Heydar Aliev had made the national currency the sole legal circulating medium throughout the country.

Azerbaijan currently issues banknotes with denominations of 1,5, 10, 20, 50 and 100.
Manat is equal to 100 qapiks. There are metal coins in denominations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 20 and 50 qapiks. Designer of the modern Azerbaijani manat is Robert Kalina from the OeBS (Osterreichische Banknoten und Sicherheitsdruck GmbH), the developer of a modern Euro design. Technical parameters of a new generation banknotes are developed with technical assistance of National Bank of Switzerland. Banknotes of a new generation has four-pillar protection system, with Level I being determined by the population without any special equipment.

Banks in Azerbaijan work 09.00-09.30 to 17.30 with some banks working till late evening. Currency can be exchanged in banks, hotels and numerous exchange points. They are often open round-the-clock (in Baku, big cities and airports). Some shops have their currency exchange offices. The currency rate in banks and exchange offices differs insignificantly.

Azerbaijan Travel

Practical information for planning your trip to Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan attracts travelers with its Zoroastrian temples, numerous historical monuments and of course, its uniqueness. But before heading to the Country of Fire for adventures and impressions, make sure you familiarize yourself with useful Azerbaijan travel tips.

How to get to Azerbaijan

The easiest way to get to Azerbaijan is by plane. Direct flights to Azerbaijan are carried out by such companies as Azerbaijan Airlines, Aeroflot, UTair, S7 Airlines, Qatar Airways, airBaltic, Turkish Airlines, Air Astana and others. Regarding traveling by train, Azerbaijan has direct railway connections with Russia and Georgia (Tbilisi) only.

NOTE: Border between Azerbaijan and Armenia is closed. Besides, if you have visited Armenia, you have to consider before your travel to Azerbaijan, that you may be stopped and questioned on the border. Any tourist who has visited Nagorny Karabakh will not be allowed to enter the country.

Customs regulations

Import and Export of Goods

Travelers can import personal items and valuables up to a certain amount without filling out a customs declaration. Travelers can import up to $10,000 USD or the equivalent, 3 litres of alcohol, 600 cigarettes, and 20 grams of gold or jewelry without filling out a declaration. For amounts larger than this (including up to $50,000 USD), travelers should fill out a customs declaration. Medication for personal use can be brought into Azerbaijan without a declaration.

Weapons (except special cases for hunting rifles), narcotics, fresh fruits and vegetables, and live animals cannot be imported into Azerbaijan.

Customs Declarations

Visitors arriving through the Red Corridor at border crossings should fill out a customs declaration form. Customs forms can be filled out at border crossings or ahead of time using the electronic customs services. There are also kiosks at border crossing areas with more information about customs regulations and a place to fill out a declaration.

Souvenirs and Personal Items

Azerbaijan has restrictions put in place by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism that do not allow for the export of culturally-significant items and antiques. If the item was made before 1960, it may be taxed upon export. In order to ensure that souvenirs and items that you buy in Azerbaijan make it safely home with you, it’s best to ask for a certificate from sellers that confirms that the item is not an antique or significant item. These certificates can take several days to be processed, but will reduce any complications you may encounter.

Registration

All visitors staying in Azerbaijan for longer than 10 days must register, no matter where they are staying or how many times they move. Registration is free, and can be completed through the State Migration Service website or in person at ASAN Service Centers located throughout the country. Registration is valid as long as your visa is valid, or for 90 days in the case of those who arrived under a visa-free regime. If you change the place where you are staying, you should register again at your new address.

Please note that registration in Azerbaijan can take several days whether it is done in person or online. It’s best to start the process for registration immediately after arriving in Azerbaijan, to be sure that it is completed before you leave. Failing to register before leaving Azerbaijan can result in fines and major complications.

Items related to Armenia or Nagorno-Karabakh my be confiscated at the border when crossing into Azerbaijan. These items may include maps (especially those that show Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Armenia), alcohol, souvenirs with Armenian symbols, and more.

Money

Official currency of Azerbaijan is manat (AZN). It is preferable to take USD or Euro to Azerbaijan.

Banks and exchange offices

It is possible to exchange foreign currency in banks, hotels and exchange offices in Azerbaijan. The latter is easily found both in Baku and many other big cities, as well as in the airports and some shops that have currency exchange points. Most of the exchange offices work 24hours. It may be harder to exchange foreign currency in smaller cities.

Banks in Baku work from 09.00 or 09.30 to 17.30, though some of them are open till late evening.

Payment by credit card is possible only in big supermarkets of Baku, banks and international hotels; they are not in use in provincial cities. 

Vacation in Azerbaijan

10 Great Things to Do and See in Azerbaijan

"Azerbaijan Land of Fire" motto embellished uniform of Madrid football club "Atletico", football champions of Spain in 2013/2014. This touch demonstrates to what extent Azerbaijan cares about attracting tourists to their developing country. Vacation in Azerbaijan is discovering thousands of places that you can visit and hundreds of activities that you can have. We will share with you 10 things to do in Azerbaijan.

1. Hear the melody of magic Gobustan. (in Azeri – Land of ravines).Humans always lived here. Epochs, millenniums, centuries, civilizations changed, but a human being was born, he hunted, fought and created in these places. On the territory of the reserve with square of 1327 acres there were about 6000 rock drawings have been found left by humanity from the upper Paleolithic Age to the Medieval Age. Some life scenes: women at work, men hunting, boats and the sun, lions and gazelles, bulls and wild boars. Signature in Latin by Roman legionnaries of the Legio XII Fulminata. Inscriptions are in Arabic and Farsi. There is even their own Stonehenge in Gobustan. Gobustan is also famous for its "singing" stones – Gavaldash. Rocks from porous shell limestone is the reason of the sounds made by pebbles spread for few kilometers in the surrounding. The oldest rock music in the Universe. Cultural landscape of rock paintings of Gobustan is enlisted as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Take a photo in front of the Maiden Tower (Azeri – Giz Galasi). A photo with the symbol of Baku – a 92 feet high mysterious and beautiful Maiden Tower is inseparable part of a vacation in Azerbaijan. Anyone in the capital can tell you many legends and stories related to this amazing place. Up to now there isn’t unified opinion on the approximate timing of the origin, purpose and even the name of this unusual architectural monument. Icheri Shehera (an inner city) is included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the top of the tower you will see a wonderful view on the unique historical-architectural reserve in the centre of Baku.

3. Visit the Absheron shore. The Caspian Sea waters, the biggest lake in the world, are not too salty as in seas: it is pleasant to swim and it is healing. It is hard to imagine a vacation in Azerbaijan without visiting a resort zone Nabran with its numerous modern hotels and sanatoriums. In the centre of the beach tourism of the Near-Caspian region one can ride on boats, sail on yachts, fish and dive with aqualung.

4. Check the temperature of mud volcanoes. There is a posit that 350 out of 800 mud volcanoes in the world are on the territory of Azerbaijan: on the seashores, islands and in the sea. Tourists love taking pictures of mysterious "Marsian" views of frozen and cracked flows of mud. It is interesting to know that the flow of erupted mud is not too hot, and used as a valuable healing product. More notable volcanoes (and they make 23) are under the protection of the state. Mud volcanoes are from 20 up to 400 meters high. A chain of active mud volcanoes are on the road Baku-Alyat, 10 km to the south of the Gobustan village.

5. See the flame of Ateshgah, the Temple of Eternal Fire. The Ateshgah temple is 30 km away from Baku, in the village of Surakhany, where it is known for such unique natural phenomenon as burning natural gas outlets (underground gas coming onto surface contacts oxygen and lights up). Scientists say that there was a holy place of Zoroastrians in the beginning of our era. According to Zoroastrism Fire is reflected in both spiritual and everyday life. With arrival of Islam, the temple was destroyed. Restoration started only in the 18th century (1713) by Hindu-fire worshippers-merchants. Gradually they built chapels, cells and caravanserai. By the beginning of the 19th century, the temple had a present. Tectonic motions brought to cease of a gas outlet at the ground surface and by 1880 the temple was abandoned. These days the place of the ancient Zoroastrian temple is open for tourists, and there is a fire burning too, but an artificial one.

6. Feel yourself an Oriental Governor in the Palace of Sheki Khans. The Palace of Sheki Khansbuilt in 1761-62 as a summer residence of the Husseyn-khan Mushtad, is considered to be the top masterpiece of the medieval Azerbaijan architecture. The entire palace is constructed without a single nail. The secret of the ingredients of the solution that the builders used in constructing the palace to connect adobe, river stone, beams, columns and boards of sycamore and oak is unfortunately lost. You will be amazed to see stained glass windows made of Venetian glass (5000 colorful pieces on a square meter). The peculiarity of the palace is a miniature painting on walls and ceilings: scenes from hunting, mythical birds in paradise garden, elephants and dragons. The colors are still there and have not lost their brightness 250 years later. There are two huge sycamore trees remained from the garden of the Sheki Khan that are standing there in protection of the palace.

7. Discover the secret of kutabs. Kutab only seems a usual thin patty. Kutab is like a pizza in Italy or a croissant in Paris. In the old times, no one would marry a girl who could not bake a bread, weave a carpet and cook a kutab. Thin, crescent-shaped, traditional and popular kutabs may have different kinds of stuffing: greens, beef, lamb, pumpkin, cheese. The recipe to make this unusual dish varies from one city to another, from one restaurant to another. What unites them is that the dough is made on water and eggs, thinly rolled, stuffed in the middle, folded in two and crimp the edges. They are either pan fried, or baked in oven or tandoor. Oiled before serving. Usually there are 5-7 kutabs per person. Kutabs should be eaten with the hands. Kutabs with greens are served with matzoon (Caucasus local yogurt) and garlic, and the beef kutabs – with sumac (A sour spice popular in the Eastern Mediterranean made of dried barberry). Vacation in Azerbaijan doesn’t count if you haven’t tried kutabs:).

8. Visit a neighbour through a chimney. The old mountain village of Khinalug was mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman historians’ writings. A piece of Caucasian Albania, lost in time and on the height of 2100-2300m has not been accessible up to recent times, thus villagers – Kyats – have preserved their unique language that does not belong to any language family, or language group, traditions and customs found nowhere else, and consider themselves as a direct descendants of Japhet, the son of Noah. Kyats build their houses on one onto another, this way the roof one neighbor is a courtyard of another. There is a chimney in the ceiling of the house through which they visit each other. It is a beautiful and harsh land, simple food, distinctive home garments. They say there is even a snowman somewhere around. Your vacation to Azerbaijan will not be complete without traveling to the State historical-architectural reserve. All the more so when in 2006 the road to Khinalug village was constructed.

9. Take a stroll along the Baku seaside boulevard. Vacation in Azerbaijan will be unforgettable with a walk along the old (more than 100 years) and renewed (half a billion USD investments) Primorsky boulevard (seafront). The alleys, landscape design turned the park into the residents’ favourite place. There are two most beautiful singing fountains, numerous new and reconstructed attractions for children and adults, cozy cafes and teahouses, cinema, kids summer theatre, parachute tower and a yacht-club. The embellishment of the Boulevard is a sport-concert complex Baku Crystal Hall built for the event of Eurovision-2012. And if you wish some peace, take a walk up the stairs or use a cable-railway to Nagorny Park where you will get a panoramic view of the city with Baku monumentsand an amazing view of Baku Bay.

10. Bow to a great woman. There is a mausoleum of a exceptional beauty in Nakhichevan, built by a son, atabek Dzhahan Pehlivan, for his mother Momine-Khatun in April of 1186. She was smart and strong woman, together with her husband (the father of Dzhahan Pehlivan) she is considered to be the root of the Eldegyz dynasty and the founder of the Atabeks state. One of the most historical buildings of Azeri architecture, which assembles son’s love, the wise queen and art of architect Adjemi, adorns this country for more than eight centuries.

Azerbaijan Visa

General requirements for getting visa to Azerbaijan

Depending on the nationality, tourists have one of the following four cases:

- Visa-free entry;
- Visa upon arrival;
- E-visa;
- Visa at the Embassy.

Visa-free entry

Citizens of the following nine countries are eligible for visa-free entry to the territory of Azerbaijan up to 90 days:

Belarus
Georgia
Kazakhstan

Kyrgyzstan
Moldova
Russia

Uzbekistan
Ukraine
Tajikistan

Visa upon arrival

Citizens or residents of the following 13 countries have simplified and accelerated Azerbaijan visa obtaining process; they receive 30-day visa upon arrival at the airports of Azerbaijan:

Bahrain
Israel
Malaysia
Oman
OAE

China
Qatar
South Korea
Saudi Arabia
Singapore

Turkey
Kuwait
Japan

E-visa

MFA Azerbaijan has launched e-visa system for the citizens of the following 80 countries. Azerbaijan e-visa processing takes up to 3 days; the system accepts VISA and MasterCard for payment.

Albania
Algeria
Andorra
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Bahrain
Belgium
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brazil
Brunei Darussalam
Bulgaria
Canada
Chile
China
Costa Rica
Croatia
Cuba
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Guatemala

Holy See (Vatican)
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Iran
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Jordan
Kuwait
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macedonia
Malaysia
Malta
Mexico
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Morocco
Nepal
Netherlands
New Zealand
Norway

Oman
Pakistan
Panama
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
Republic of Korea
Romania
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Serbia
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
Spain
Sri Lanka
Sweden
Switzerland
Thailand
Turkey
Turkmenistan
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
United States of America
Vietnam

 

Visa at the Embassy

If your country is not in any of the lists provided above, then you need to apply for Azerbaijan visa at the Embassy in your country. If there is no Embassy of Azerbaijan in your country, then contact embassies in neighboring countries. 

Apart from that, there are different types of Azerbaijan visa: tourist, transit, student, humanitarian, business and guest visa. According to the type of visa the list of the required documents and terms vary, however the main document is still an invitation letter from Azerbaijan that should be sent via the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Embassies of Azerbaijan Abroad

Azerbaijan Embassies in Foreign Countries

Azerbaijan has diplomatic relations with over 100 countries. Currently, Azerbaijan embassies are established in more than 50 countries around the world. Find below addresses and contacts of the embassies of Azerbaijan abroad.

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Australia
Address: 5 Mialli Place O’Malley, Canberra, Australia
Tel.: +61262905600
E-mail: canberra_mission@mfa.gov.az
Website: www.canberra.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Austria
Address: 2 Hügelgasse Str., Vienna, Austria
Tel.: +4314031322
E-mail: vienna@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.azembassy.at

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Belarus
Адрес: 5 Starovilensky tract Str., Minsk, Belarus 
Тел.: +375173003759
E-mail: minsk@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.minsk.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Belgium
Address: 464 Moliere Ave, Brussels, Belgium
Tel.: +3223452660
E-mail: office@azembassy.be
Website: www.brussels.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Bulgaria
Address: 6 Charles Darwin Str., Sofia, Republic of Bulgaria
Tel.: +35928170070
E-mail: sofia@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.sofia.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Canada
Address: 275 Slater Str., Suite 1203, Ottawa, Canada
Tel.: +6132880497
E-mail: azerbaijan@azembassy.ca
Website: www.ottawa.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to China
Address: Qijayuan Diplomatic Compound, Villa B-3-3, Beijing, China 
Tel.: +861065324614 
E-mail: mailbox@azerbembassy.org.cn 
Website: www.beijing.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Croatia
Address: 104 Srebrnjak Str., Zagreb, Croatia
Tel.: 0038516438900
E-mail: zagreb_mission@mfa.gov.az
Website: www.zagreb.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Czech Republic
Address: 783/17 Na Zátorce Str., Praha 6, Czech Republic
Tel.: + 420246032422
E-mail: prague@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.prague.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Egypt
Address: 10 Maadi Sarayat Str., Villa 16/24, Cairo, Egypt
Tel.: +20223583761, +20223583783, +20223583790
E-mail: embassy.azerbaijan.cairo@gmail.com
Website: www.cairo.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Estonia
Address: 20t Pirita Str., Tallinn, Estonia
Tel.: +3726405050
E-mail: tallinn@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.tallin.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to France
Address: 78 d'Iéna Ave, Paris, France
Tel.: +330144186020 
E-mail: secretariat@azambassade.fr
Website: www.azambassade.fr

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Georgia
Address: 4 Vakhtang Gorgasali Str., Tbilisi, Georgia
Tel.: +995322242220
E-mail: tbilisi@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.tbilisi.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Germany
Address: 43 Hubertusallee Str., Berlin, Germany
Tel.: +490302191613  
E-mail: berlin@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.berlin.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Greece
Address: 13 Marathonodromon x Yakinthon, Psychiko, Greece
Tel.: + 302103632721
E-mail: embassy@azembassy.gr
Website: www.azembassy.gr

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Great Britain
Address: 4 Kensington Court, London, UK
Tel.: +4402079383412 
E-mail: london@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.london.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Hungary
Address: 14 Eötvös Str., Budapest, Hungary
Tel.: +3613746070, +3613746071 
E-mail: budapest@mission.mfa.gov.az, budapest@azembassy.hu
Website: www.budapest.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to India
Address: 41 Paschimi Marg Str., Vasant Vihar, New Delhi, India 
Tel.: +911126152228
E-mail: newdelhi@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.newdelhi.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Indonesia
Address: JL Karang Asem Tehngah, block C 5, No 20, Kuningan Timur, Jakarta, Indonesia
Tel.: +622125554408
E-mail: jakarta@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.jakarta.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Iran
Address: 16 Rastovan Str., 3rd Neyestan Str., Pasdaran, Tehran, Iran
Tel.: +982122563146/47, +982122554255, +982122559553
E-mail: az.embassy.tehran@gmail.com
Website: www.tehran.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Italy
Address: 1 Regina Margherita Ave, Rome, Italy
Tel.: +390685305557
E-mail: rome@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.rome.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Japan
Address: 1-19-15 Higashigaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Tel.: +81354864744
E-mail: info@azembassy.jp
Website: www.tokyo.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Jordan
Address: 13 Al-Awabed Str., Al-Kursi area, Amman, Jordan
Tel.: +96265935525, +96265933231
E-mail: amman@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.azembassyjo.org

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Kazakhstan
Address: Diplomatic city, B-6, Astana, Kazakhstan
Tel.: +7172241581, +7172241097
E-mail: astana@azembassy.kz
Website: www.astana.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Korea
Address: 63 Itaewon-ro 45-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
Tel.: +8227971765/66
E-mail: embassy@azembassy.co.kr, azembseoul@gmail.com
Website: www.seoul.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Kuwait
Address: Al Yarmouk area, block 2, 1 street, Villa 15, Kuwait
Tel.: +96525355247
E-mail: kuwait@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.kuwait.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Kyrgyzstan
Address: 183 F. Dzerjinskiy Str., Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Tel.: +996312376471
E-mail: bishkek@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.bishkek.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Latvia
Address: 2-5 Raina Blvd, Riga, Latvia
Tel.: +37167142889
E-mail: riga@mission.mfa.gov.az, office@azembassy.lv
Website: www.riga.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Lithuania
Address: 4 Algirdo Str., Vilnius, Lithuania 
Tel.: +37052195601/02
E-mail: vilnius@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.vilnius.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Malaysia
Address: Lot 589, Jalan 6, Taman Ampang Utarma, Ampang Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
Tel.: +60342526800, +60342534800
E-mail: kualalumpur@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.azembassy.com.my

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Mexico
Address: 1015 Virreyes Ave, Lomas de Chapultepec, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico D.F.
Tel.: +525555404109
E-mail: oficina@azembassy.mx
Website: www.mexico.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Moldova
Address: 64 Kogalniceanu Str., Chisinau, Moldova
Tel.: +37322232277, +37322214209
E-mail: chisinau@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.chisinau.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Montenegro
Address: 32 Skoja Str., Tolosi, Podgorica, Montenegro
Tel.: +38220281181
E-mail: podgorica@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.podgorica.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Netherlands
Address: 6 Andries Bickerweg Str., The Hague, the Netherlands
Tel.: +31703921939
E-mail: info@azembassy.nl
Website: www.hague.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Pakistan
Address: Plot 1 D and 1E Diplomatic Enclave II, Islamabad, Pakistan
Tel.: +92512600703/04
E-mail: islamabad@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.islamabad.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Poland
Address: 12 Zwyciezcow Str., Warsaw, Poland 
Tel.: 0048226162188, 0048226176728
E-mail: warsaw@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.warsaw.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Qatar
Address: 66 Dafna Str., West Bay, Saha 41, Doha, Qatar
Tel.: +97444932450, +97444113706
E-mail: azembassy@qatar.net.qa 
Website: www.doha.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Russian Federation
Address: 16 Leontevski cross, Moscow, Russia
Tel.: +74956294332, +74956291649
E-mail: embassy@azembassy.msk.ru
Website: www.moscow.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Saudi Arabia
Address: 63 Prince Faisal Bin Saad Bin Abdulrahman Str., Al Uruba road, Al Worood quarter
Tel.: 00966114192382
E-mail: riyadh@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.riyadh.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Serbia
Address: 25 Pere Velimirovića Str., Belgrade, Serbia
Tel.: + 381113515101, + 381113515102
E-mail: belgrade@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.belgrade.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to South Africa
Address: 302 Albert Str., Waterkloof Ridge, Pretoria, South Africa
Tel.: +27123461018, +27123460829
E-mail: pretoria@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.pretoria.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Spain
Address: 38 Ronda de Avutarda Str., Madrid, Spain
Tel.: +34917596010
E-mail: madrid@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.madrid.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Sweden
Address: 3 Barnhusgatan Str., 4th floor, Stockholm, Sweden 
Tel.: +4686615850
E-mail: stockholm@mission.mfa.gov.az, azerembassy@gmail.com
Website: www.stockholm.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Switzerland
Address: 10 Kramburgstrasse Str., Bern, Switzerland
Tel.: +41313505040
E-mail: bern@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.bern.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Tajikistan
Address: 18 Zafar Nozimov Str., Dushanbe,Tajikistan
Tel.: +992372247028/29
E-mail: dushanbe@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.dushanbe.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Turkey
Address: 1 Baku Str., Diplomatic Site, Ankara, Turkey
Tel.: +903124911681/82/83
E-mail: ankara@mission.mfa.gov.az 
Website: www.ankara.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan
Address: 112 Ata Govshudov Str., Ashkabad, Turkmenistan
Tel.: +99312391102, +99312391447
E-mail: azsefir_ashg@online.tm
Website: www.azembassyashg.com

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Ukraine
Address: 24 Glybochitska Str., Kyiv, Ukraine
Tel.: + 380444846940
E-mail: kiev@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.kiev.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to United Arab Emirates
Address: Al Bateen Area, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Tel.: + 97126662848
E-mail: azembuae@emirates.net.ae
Website: www.abudhabi.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to USA
Address: 2741 34th Str., N.W. Washington, DC, USA
Tel.: +12023373500
E-mail: azerbaijan@azembassy.us
Website: www.washington.mfa.gov.az

Embassy of Azerbaijan to Uzbekistan
Address: 25, Sharg Tongi Str., Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Tel.: +998712736167
E-mail: tashkent@mission.mfa.gov.az
Website: www.tashkent.mfa.gov.az

Azerbaijan Airlines

• INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES
• AZERBAIJAN AIRLINES

Azerbaijan Airlines (Azərbaycan Hava Yolları), also known as AZAL, is the national air carrier of Azerbaijan. Company headquarter is based in Baku, next to the operating airport - Heydar Aliyev International Airport. Azerbaijan Airlines operates flights to destinations across Asia, the CIS, Europe, Africa and the USA. Its fleet consists of Boeing, including Dreamliner, Airbus and Embraer, small aircrafts of Brazilian production.

Azerbaijan Airlines Schedule Summer 2018

Azerbaijan Airlines International Flights

Ankara (ESB)

Dubai (DXB)

Frankfurt (FRA)

Istanbul (IST)

Istanbul (SAW)

London (LHR)

Moscow (DME)

Moscow (VKO)

Paris (CDG)

Tehran (IKA)

Tel Aviv (TLV)

Azerbaijan Airlines CIS Countries Flights

Astana (TSE)

Ekaterinburg (SVX)

Kazan (KZN)

Kiev (KBP)

Mineralnye Vody (MRV)

Novosibirsk (OVB)

Saint Petersburg (LED)

Tbilisi (TBS)

Azerbaijan Border Crossings

Azerbaijan border stretches for 3370 km, out of which 2657 is onland, and 713 is a shoreline that forms a natural boundary to the east. Azerbaijan borders with Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Turkey and Iran, as well as has naval connections with Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. The border between Azerbaijan and Armenia is currently closed. Most of the checkpoints work round-the-clock. Below is the list of open Azerbaijan border crossings:

International Border Crossing Points between Republic of Azerbaijan and Iran

# of c/p	Name of Crossing Points in Azerbaijan	Location in Azerbaijan	Name of Crossing Points in Iran	Location in Iran	Operating regime
1	Astara	Astara district, town Astara	Astara	North Gilan Province, city Astara	From 09:00 till 17:00
2	Bilasuvar	Bilasuvar district, town Bilasuvar	Ardabil	Ardabil Province	24 hours
3	Culfa	Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Julfa district, town Julfa	Jolfa	East Azerbaijan Province, town Jolfa	24 hours

International Border Crossing Points between Republic of Azerbaijan and Georgia

# of c/p	Name of Crossing Points in Azerbaijan	Location in Azerbaijan	Name of Crossing Points in Georgia	Location in Georgia	Operating regime
1	Red Bridge	Ganja region, Shikhly II town	Red Bridge (Tsiteli Khidi)	Kvemo-Kartli region, Mughanlo village	24 hours
2	Sadikhli	Ganja region, Sadikhli village	Vakhtangisi	Kvemo-Kartli region, Vakhtangisi village	Daylight
3	Tsodna	Shaki region	Tsodna	Kakheti region, Lagodekhi	24 hours

International Border Crossing Points between Republic of Azerbaijan and Russian Federation

# of c/p	Name of Crossing Points in Azerbaijan	Location in Azerbaijan	Name of Crossing Points in Russia	Location in Russia	Operating regime
1	Samur	Qusar Rayon, village Samur	Yarag-Kazmalyar	The Republic of Dagestan, Magaramkentsky District, village Yarag-Kazmalyar	24 hours
2	Xanoba	Khachmazsky district, Khanoba village	Tagirkent-Kazmalyar	The Republic of Dagestan, Magaramkentsky District, Tagirkent-Kazmalyar	24 hours

International Border Crossing Points between Republic of Azerbaijan and Turkey

# of c/p	Name of Crossing Points in Azerbaijan	Location in Azerbaijan	Name of Crossing Points in Turkey	Location in Turkey	Operating regime
1	Sadarak	Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, village Sadarak	Dilicu	Eastern Anatolia region, Province Igdir	24 hours

Azerbaijan Phone Codes

International dialing code for Azerbaijan - 994
Emergency numbers:			Azerbaijan mobile phone codes:
Fire Service Police Ambulance	101 102 103		Azercell  Azerfon  Bakcell  Fonex Nakhtel CDMA  Nar Mobile	50, 51 70, 77 55 40 60 70

Azerbaijan city codes:
Baku	12,  123, 124, 125, 20, 88		Kakhi	2425
Absheron	1234		Kedabek	2232
Agdam	2632		Quba	23, 2333
Agdare	148		Kubatlah	133
Agdash	2023		Kusary	2338
Agdere	248		Kyurdamir	2025
Agdjabedi	2127		Lankaran	25, 2525
Adjikabul	2120, 21428		Lerik	2527
Akstafa	2222, 22428		Masally	2521
Astara	2522		Mingechevir	2427
Akhsu	2022		Naftalan	2235
Babek	36541		Nakhichevan	36, 36544, 36550, 60, 60540
Barda	2020		Neftchala	2126
Beilagan	2122		Oguz	2421
Belaken	119		Ordubad	36547
Belokany	2429		Saatli	2128
Bilasuvar	2529		Sabirabad	2123
Goygol	2220		Sadarak	36549
Gabala	2420		Salyany	2125
Hajigabul	140		Samukh	2227
Geokchay	2027		Siazan	2330
Geranboy	2224		Souza	26
Gobustan	2024		Sumgait	186
Guzanly	192		Tauz	2231
Ganja	22, 222, 22428		Ter-Ter	2223
Dashkesan	2221		Ujary	2021
Jabrail	2638		Fizuli	2631
Jalilabad	2524		Khachmas	2332
Julfa	36546		Khyzy	2331
Yevlakh	2233, 22428		Shabron	2335
Zakataly	2422		Shamkir	2230
Zardob	2029		Sharur	36542, 36552
Zengilan District	196		Shakhbuz	36543
Imishli	2124		Sheki	24, 2424
Ismailly	2028		Shamakhi	2026
Kazakh	2229		Shirvan	21, 2121
Kangerli	36548		Yardymly	2520

Updated: 13 February 2015.

Azerbaijan Events & Exhibitions 2018 and 2019

Capital city of Azerbaijan is a well-proven center of the largest exhibitions and conferences in the Caspian region. Exhibitions in Baku, which are officially supported by state agencies of Azerbaijan are a great opportunity for introducing own goods and services, as well as getting acquainted with products of local and international manufacturers, explore the world of new technologies and ideas. Every year, there are dozens of international trade shows held in Azerbaijan, which host entrepreneurs from all over the world and stimulates expansion of export and import in the region, raise the efficiency of manufacturing, and improve development of services sphere. The page provides a complete list of trade shows and exhibitions, which will be held in Azerbaijan in 2018 and 2019.

Advantour does not manage the events that are listed on this page and is not responsible for any changes in announcements. Though we always strive to deliver the most up-to-date and accurate information, plans can change abruptly and without notice.

Azerbaijan Events and Exhibitions July, August, September 2018

GIFT&PROMO FAIR Date: from 20-SEP-2019 to 22-SEP-2019 City: Baku  The 1st Azerbaijan International Gifts and Promotional Products Fair

AdPrint 2018 Date: from 20-SEP-18 to 22-SEP-18 City: Baku  The 1st International Advertising and Printing Exhibition

ADEX-2018 Date: from 25-SEP-18 to 27-SEP-18 City: Baku  The 3d Azerbaijan International Defence Industry Exhibition - ADEX-2018

Azerbaijan Events and Exhibitions October, November, December 2018

Career 2018 Date: from 11-OCT-18 to 13-OCT-18 City: Baku  The 12th Azerbaijan International Exhibition - Career 2018

Education 2018 Date: from 11-OCT-18 to 13-OCT-18 City: Baku  The 12th Azerbaijan International Exhibition - Education 2018

CIPS 2018 Date: from 23-OCT-18 to 26-OCT-18 City: Baku  The 11th Caspian International Protection, Security and Rescue Exhibition

BakuBuild 2018 Date: from 23-OCT-18 to 26-OCT-18 City: Baku  The 24th Azerbaijan International Construction Exhibition

Aquatherm Baku 2018 Date: from 23-OCT-18 to 26-OCT-18 City: Baku  The 11th International Exhibition for "Heating, Ventilation, Air - Conditioning, Water Supply, Sanitary, Environmental Technology, Swimming Pool and Renewable Energies"

Caspian MebelExpo 2018 Date: from 23-OCT-18 to 26-OCT-18 City: Baku  Caspian International Furniture, Interiors and Design Exhibition

BIHE 2018 Date: from 01-NOV-18 to 03-NOV-18 City: Baku  The 24th Azerbaijan International Healthcare Exhibition

Stomatology Azerbaijan 2018 Date: from 01-NOV-18 to 03-NOV-18 City: Baku  The 13th Azerbaijan International Stomatology Exhibition

Beauty Azerbaijan 2018 Date: from 01-NOV-18 to 03-NOV-18 City: Baku  The 12th Azerbaijan International "Beauty and Esthetic Medicine Exhibition"

Caspian Ecology 2018 Date: from 14-NOV-18 to 16-NOV-18 City: Baku  The 9th Azerbaijan International Environmental Exhibition

Bakutel 2018 Date: from 04-DEC-18 to 07-DEC-18 City: Baku  The 24th Azerbaijan International Exhibition and Conference “Telecommunications and information technologies”

Azerbaijan Events and Exhibitions January, February, March 2019

Caspian Realty 2019 Date: from 20-FEB-19 to 22-FEB-19 City: Baku  The 1st Caspian International Realty and Investment Fair Caspian Realty 2019

Caspian Franchise Forum 2019 Date: 01-MAR-2019 City: Baku  The 2nd Azerbaijan International Franchise Forum

Azerbaijan Events and Exhibitions April, May, June 2019

AITF 2019 Date: from 04-APR-19 to 06-APR-19 City: Baku  The 18th International Travel and Tourism Fair

HOREX Caucasus 2019 Date: from 15-MAY-19 to 17-MAY-19 City: Baku  The 13th Caucasus International Hospitality Exhibition

Worldfood Azerbaijan 2019 Date: from 15-MAY-19 to 17-MAY-19 City: Baku  The 25th Azerbaijan International Food Industry Exhibition

Caspian Agro 2019 Date: from 15-MAY-19 to 17-MAY-19 City: Baku  The 13th Azerbaijan International Agriculture Exhibition

Ipack Caspian 2019 Date: from 15-MAY-19 to 17-MAY-19 City: Baku  Caspian International Exhibition "Packaging, Tare, Label and Printing"

Caspian Oil & Gas 2019 Date: from 29-MAY-19 to 01-JUN-19 City: Baku  The 26th International Caspian Oil & Gas Exhibition - "Caspian Oil & Gas 2019"

Caspian Oil & Gas Conference 2019 Date: from 30-MAY-19 to 31-MAY-19 City: Baku  The 26th International Conference "Incorporating Refining and Petrochemicals" - "Caspian Oil and Gas 2019"

Caspian Power 2019 Date: from 29-MAY-19 to 31-MAY-19 City: Baku  The 9th Caspian International Power and Alternative Energy Exhibition "Caspian Power 2019"

TRANSCASPIAN/TRANSLOGISTICA 2019 Date: from 11-JUN-19 to 13-JUN-19 City: Baku  The 18th International Transport, Transit and Logistics Exhibition "Transcaspian 2019"

Road & Traffic 2019 Date: from 11-JUN-19 to 13-JUN-19 City: Baku  The 9th Caspian International "Road Infrastructure and Public Transport Exhibition" - "Road & Traffic 2019"

CIBS 2019 Date: from 11-JUN-19 to 13-JUN-19 City: Baku  The 6th Caspian International Boat and Yacht Show