Between November 29 and December 6, Azerbaijan Tourism Board hosted a familiarisation trip for more than 12 distinguished representatives from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland to explore Azerbaijan’s diverse tourism and travel offerings and foster meaningful connections.
The program featured a B2B workshop with around 40 local companies and Azerbaijani tourism stakeholders, providing a platform to explore potential partnerships and collaborations between the DACH region and Azerbaijan. These interactions underscore Azerbaijan Tourism Board’s commitment to promoting Azerbaijan as a premier destination for business events and leisure tourism in the region.
Participants experienced Azerbaijan’s rich cultural and historical heritage through visits to the Heydar Aliyev Centre, the Old City of Baku, and the Gobustan Reserve, renowned for its ancient petroglyphs and mud volcanoes. The itinerary also included wine tastings at Savalan Wine House, scenic walks through Highland Park, and explorations of Baku’s vibrant boulevard and local landmarks.
A key highlight of the trip was the introduction of Sheki and Gabala as prime tourism destinations, each renowned for its distinct charm. Sheki, with its UNESCO-listed heritage, captivated visitors with its rich cultural legacy, while the serene landscapes of Gabala offered a blend of adventure and tranquility, making it a versatile destination for all types of travelers.
The familiarization trip was organized with the support of Turkish Airlines from Germany and Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) from Austria, highlighting the collaboration of key aviation partners in promoting Azerbaijan as a leading tourism destination.
Between January and November 2024, a total of 25,599 tourists from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland visited Azerbaijan, reflecting a 26% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This rising interest is attributed to the country's simplified e-visa process and improved flight connectivity. Travelers from the DACH region can conveniently apply for an e-visa via evisa.gov.az, with standard processing taking as little as three days or 3 to 5 hours for urgent requests. The e-visa is valid for 90 days, allowing visitors to stay in Azerbaijan for up to 30 days. To further support the influx of tourists, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) operates direct flights to Vienna and Berlin three times a week, ensuring smooth and efficient travel for European visitors. These developments underscore Azerbaijan's commitment to enhancing accessibility and promoting itself as an attractive destination for international travelers.
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
For further information and interview requests, please contact:
Sabina Suleymanova [email protected]