25 Sep 2024
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On September 24th, Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB), in collaboration with Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), hosted two key events aimed at further enhancing tourism relations between Azerbaijan and China. These initiatives mark a significant milestone in Azerbaijan’s commitment to fostering closer ties with the Chinese travel industry.
A press conference was held in Beijing, China gathering up to 30 representatives from prominent media outlets to provide the latest updates on Azerbaijan’s tourism landscape. Highlights included the recently introduced visa-free regime for Chinese tourists, activities of ATB’s representative office in China, and availability of direct flights between Baku and Beijing by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL). The visa-free policy, effective from July 20, 2024, to July 20, 2025, allows Chinese tourists to visit Azerbaijan up to three times within a year. AZAL is committed to providing a safe, comfortable and convenient travel experience for passengers, and this route connecting two capitals serves as a significant step toward further expansion of Azerbaijan’s global network.
“Starting in December 2023, Azerbaijan Airlines began operating direct flights between Baku and Beijing, connecting our two capitals twice a week. This new route creates an essential “air bridge” between our nations, symbolizing more than just a flight connection—it’s a bridge between our cultures, economies, and peoples," said Jamil Manizade, Chief Commercial Officer at Azerbaijan Airlines.
Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB), and Trip.com Group, leading online travel service provider, was formally signed. This MoU aims to strengthen tourism cooperation by leveraging Ctrip’s powerful platforms to promote Azerbaijan as a top destination for Chinese travelers. During the event, Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of Azerbaijan Tourism Board, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating:
“Tourism relations between Azerbaijan and China reached a new pinnacle, with increasing arrivals and expanding tailored experiences, further reinforced by today’s MoU with Trip.com Group, which strengthens our position in the Chinese market.”
These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to promote Azerbaijan’s tourism sector and highlight its appeal to Chinese travelers. The press conference provided an opportunity to discuss the country’s tourism potential and the strategic steps taken to increase Chinese tourist arrivals. The second part of the day saw a VIP networking dinner attended by 100 distinguished guests, including Rashad Nabiyev, Minister of Digital Development and Transportation of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Bunyad Huseynov, The Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the People`s Republic of China, Jamil Manizade, Chief Commercial Officer of Azerbaijan Airlines, Chingiz Mursalov, Head of Sales and Partnerships Department at Azerbaijan Airlines, embassy members, top OTAs and wholesalers, and media representatives from China.
The 24th of September also marked the completion of ATB’s roadshow in four key Chinese cities: Shenzhen, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Beijing, which ran from September 18-24, 2024. The roadshow successfully connected Azerbaijani tourism stakeholders with over 300 travel agencies, airlines, hotels, and DMCs, showcasing the best that Azerbaijan has to offer.
During the first eight months of 2024, Azerbaijan welcomed a record-breaking number of Chinese tourists, with 26,866 arrivals, more than doubling the figure from the same period in 2023. This rise is attributed to initiatives such as the one-year visa-free policy for Chinese visitors, direct flight routes, and targeted B2B and B2C marketing campaigns. Azerbaijan’s comprehensive tourism offerings, from its UNESCO-listed cultural heritage sites to luxury shopping and wellness experiences, continue to captivate Chinese travelers. With the China Ready Program now further developed, Azerbaijan ensures that Chinese tourists are catered to with personalized services, enhancing their travel experience.
For more information about Azerbaijan's tourism offerings, please visit www.azerbaijan.travel
For further information and interview requests, please contact:
Sabina Suleymanova
About Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB)
Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB) is the national promotion body established under the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Its main objectives are to support the growth of Azerbaijan’s tourism industry and encourage visitors to explore the country’s rich cultural offerings and experience its ancient heritage. For more information, visit Experience Azerbaijan Website and follow us on social media at: Experience Azerbaijan Instagram, Experience Azerbaijan Facebook, Experience Azerbaijan Twitter
