From December 5 to 10, 2024, Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB) hosted a familiarization trip for 27 prominent tourism agencies from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. The trip, organized with the support of Flynas Airlines from Saudi Arabia, aimed to introduce the Gulf region representatives to Azerbaijan’s winter tourism opportunities as well as its natural and cultural tourism potential.
A series of B2B meetings were held, where around 45 Azerbaijani tourism stakeholders explored potential partnerships and cooperation with representatives from the Gulf countries. These strategic interactions play a vital role in enhancing Azerbaijan's position as a leading destination for international tourism and boosting commercial ties between Azerbaijani and Gulf-based stakeholders.
A key highlight of the visit was a day trip to Shahdag Mountain Resort, where Gulf delegates explored modern ski facilities and experienced the resort's potential for unique winter tourism. This immersive journey offered insights into Azerbaijan’s diverse tourism potential, showcasing its natural beauty, vibrant cultural heritage, and world-class amenities. The initiative aligns with Azerbaijan’s strategy to position itself as a leading destination for adventure, nature, and cultural exploration.
The growing interest from travelers in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Bahrain is supported by Azerbaijan's streamlined entry process and convenient travel connections. Citizens of these countries can obtain an Azerbaijani e-visa via the official evisa.gov.az portal, with standard processing within 3 working days or expedited processing in as little as 3 hours. Direct flights and extensive flight networks provide swift and seamless access, with flight durations averaging around 3 hours. This combination of fast visa processing, strong flight connectivity, and short travel time makes Azerbaijan an increasingly attractive destination for Gulf tourists seeking cultural, natural, and adventure-based experiences.
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