FAQs

Relocating to Baku, Azerbaijan may become a thrilling and valuable experience. Being the cultural, economical and political centre of Azerbaijan, the city of Baku is an interesting mixture of old history and contemporary life. But as with any international relocation, it pays to be prepared. So, here is the realistic, detailed and practical guide with the main tips to those who are moving to Baku. Learn basic Azerbaijani (or Russian) English is popular, particularly among young generations, but the official language is Azerbaijani and Russian is popular among older local people. Knowing some simple phrases will not only provide you with the means of getting through your daily life but also demonstrate that you respect the culture of the place you visit. And please do not be surprised when people become much friendlier to you when you are speaking a foreign language. It works wonders in this country. Cost of living: Expect mixed costs Baku may be cheap or very expensive, it depends on the way you live. The rent in the central location such as the city center or at the Caspian Sea is usually expensive. Nevertheless, local markets offer groceries at low prices, and the public transportation is very affordable - metro and buses are as cheap as 12 cents per journey. Download ride-hailing applications, such as Bolt or Uber, or dial 9933 to order a local taxi, which is cheaper and more regular than street ones. Do not use the so-called London taxis and never pay without checking your fare. Enjoy the food, but know what to expect Azerbaijani cuisine is rich, hearty, and often quite oily and salty by Western standards, with signature dishes like plov, dolma, and kebabs. The tea culture is lively and friendly. Nevertheless, vegetarians might be a bit restricted in choices and some expats believe that food is too oily or dense. Eating out could be as cheap as in the local restaurants to expensive in the fancy restaurants. Always double-check your restaurant and taxi bills — tourists and expats occasionally encounter inflated prices, especially in highly touristic areas. Cultural etiquette and caution Azerbaijanis are very welcoming, friendly, and helpful people, yet the rules of privacy are altered. It would not be a surprise that a person would inquire about your salary or marital status in regular conversation. Do not talk about Armenia or about regional politics. This is a very personal topic and it is better to remain neutral or even avoid it. The social life is quite active and vibrant particularly in Baku but do build trust worthy relationships with time. Nice is not necessarily trusted- Friendly does not necessarily mean trusted- Be careful whom you trust at the beginning. Transportation tips and warnings The metro in Baku is fast, clean and cheap. There are also frequent buses and trains. Newcomers should not drive in Baku. The traffic is hectic, people do not follow the lane discipline, and pedestrian safety is not uniform. It is not unusual to have reckless and even drunk driving at night. When you have to drive, then memorize the traffic regulations and do not drive at night. Healthcare: Be prepared Private healthcare is generally good, especially for dentistry and cosmetic procedures, but expensive. Public hospitals are underfunded, and service can be slow and inefficient. Health insurance is essential. Choose a plan that covers private clinics and international hospitals. Explore the city and culture Take time to explore Baku’s rich history and modern developments: Old City (Icherisheher) – a UNESCO World Heritage site Flame Towers and Heydar Aliyev Center Seaside Boulevard – perfect for evening walks Theaters and museums – locals love performances, and the cultural scene is strong The city stays alive until midnight or later, especially in the summer. Though nightlife is active, Baku isn’t a “party capital.” The vibe is more relaxed and social than wild. Weather and environment The climate of Baku is mild four-season, however, be aware that it is called the “City of Winds.” Autumn and winter are the seasons of fierce winds which may turn everyday life unpleasant. There also can be a problem of air quality because of dust and pollution. Build a support network Participate in expat communities, language exchange events or clubs. It will allow you to feel more at home, meet friends and receive good local advice. Some of these spontaneous connections become the best memories many expats talk about. Final tips for moving to Baku Change money at banks, as there are no private exchange dealers. Stay alert when paying in cash — double-check bills and change. Keep an open mind, and be ready for both pleasant surprises and a few challenges. The people, food, and history will leave a lasting impression. Conclusion Relocation to Baku may be an enriching experience of exploration. A perfect combination of vibrant city life, friendly people, low cost of living, and rich history make Baku an ever more popular expat destination. Then simply be prepared, patient, and stay cautious - and you will probably fall in love with the pulse of life in this very special and most interesting capital.

Yes, despite the obvious negative factors in life in Azerbaijan, there exist numerous real and practical benefits too, as a local resident, student, expatriate or a foreign investor. Between its amazing cultural heritage and its diverse landscapes, high literacy rate and its strategic position, Azerbaijan is one of the most undervalued jewels in the region. In this piece we discuss the best reasons why Azerbaijan can be a great place to live in. High literacy and strong education culture Azerbaijan has one of the highest literacy rates in the world, consistently above 99%. Azerbaijani society values Education. The Azerbaijanis are well informed in mathematics, geography, history and many Azerbaijanis speak Azerbaijani and Russian, and in urban areas, some also speak Turkish and English, though English is less widely spoken outside major cities. Azerbaijan is a chess powerhouse, producing multiple Grandmasters and consistently ranking high in international team competitions. This focus on intellectual development makes it an excellent choice for families with children who are growing up and students who are looking to get good learning facilities. Multicultural and tolerant society Azerbaijan is one of the most secular countries in the Muslim world, where religion does not interfere with politics or public life. It is home to various ethnic minorities such as Lezgins, Jews, Talysh, Avars, Georgians, and others — all living in peace and without significant discrimination. Notably, Azerbaijan has long been a safe haven for Jews, unlike many neighboring countries. It was also one of the first countries to grant equal voting rights to women, back in 1918 — well before many Western nations. Safety and social stability Azerbaijan is a secure country and regarded as one of the safest ones in the region. Such cities as Baku, Sheki and Ganja are characterized by the low level of crimes and rather peaceful environment. Though Azerbaijan borders some of the regions of previous conflict (such as Nagorno-Karabakh), life in the big cities is peaceful and undisturbed. The nation is also well endowed with family values and respect to parents and elders similar to the Mediterranean societies. Natural beauty and diverse climate Although it is a small nation, Azerbaijan has 9 out of 11 world climate zones -subtropical coasts to alpine mountains. This suits it to people who like variety in outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking and relaxation at the sea shore. Popular destinations include: Gabala, Sheki, and Guba for nature and mountain views. Lankaran and Masalli for subtropical forests and tea plantations. Baku for urban lifestyle mixed with historical charm. Job opportunities and economic potential In sectors like oil & gas or multinational firms, expats may receive salaries in foreign currencies such as USD or EUR, though most local jobs pay in Azerbaijani manat. Higher salaries in foreign currencies are more common in sectors like oil & gas or with multinational firms. The energy sector, particularly in Baku is developed and the country keeps on investing in infrastructure, tourism and education. Some expat packages in the oil & gas sector may include hardship allowances due to regional proximity to conflict zones, though daily life in cities remains peaceful and unaffected. Cuisine and tea culture Azerbaijani cuisine is a blend of Persian, Turkish, Russian, and Caucasian influences, featuring rich dishes like: Plov (saffron rice with meat), Dolma (stuffed grape leaves), Kebabs, and Dushbara (dumplings in broth). The tea culture is exceptional — locals drink black tea with jam, served in pear-shaped glasses. The dining experience is warm, social, and an integral part of daily life. Affordable transportation and living costs Transport in general is very affordable in Baku, and a metro journey costs approximately $0.20, whereas a short-distance taxi ride can cost as little as $1, especially within city limits. Bolt and Uber are popular. Accommodation, food and entertainment tend to be cheaper than most western nations, but luxuries may seem costly when considering the local economy. Strategic location and global access Azerbaijan’s location between Europe and Asia allows easy travel to nearby hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, and Moscow. Azerbaijani citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several regional countries such as Turkey, Russia, Georgia, and Iran. The citizens of this country also get to enjoy visa-free entry into countries such as Russia and Turkey and students usually have access to scholarships and foreign exchange programs. Conclusion: Is living in Azerbaijan worth it? Yes, Azerbaijan is a rare combination of tradition and modernity, safety, economic opportunities and real hospitability. It’s a great destination for families, professionals, and students alike. It can be either its vibrant culture, stunning nature, inexpensive lifestyle, or kind people that attract you to Azerbaijan, but in any case, you will find that this country is a place where diversity, intelligence, and history can coexist so well.

People often mention Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, for its futuristic buildings, the Flame Towers and the historical appeal of the Old City (Icherisheher). However, apart from the well-known places, Baku is home to some hidden treasures that let you discover new and intimate aspects of the city. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture or keeping distant from the groups, these locations make great visits in Baku. Teze Pir Mosque The Teze Pir Mosque is found in central Baku and it has undergone full restoration while preserving its original history. At the start of the 1900s, the mosque was finished, but before long it was changed into a cinema and barn during Soviet times. Afterward, it became a mosque once more in 1943. Thanks to its gold-plated minarets and calm setting, Teze Pir will be an escape from the city noise. Palace of Happiness The Mukhtarov Palace which is also known by this name, was built for Murtuza Mukhtarov’s wife in 1912 by the oil baron. Because of its romantic background and attractive design, it stands out as one of the most beautiful buildings in Baku. Candlelight is used in the city for registering marriages which adds to its special appeal. Baku Funicular Although many people prefer to go to the Martyrs’ Alley and Flame Towers in taxis, the Funicular ride gives a nice and nostalgic trip to the top. Starting at Neftchilar Avenue and moving towards the highest area in the city, it lets passengers enjoy the view of the Caspian Sea, the old town and the city’s striking skyline, especially at sunset. National Museum of History of Azerbaijan This national museum is less well-known to visitors, even though it is housed in a grand Renaissance-style mansion and contains over 300,000 historical artifacts. If you want to understand Azerbaijan’s history, this museum is the place to go, as it is the largest in the country. Azerbaijan State Opera and Ballet Theatre In 1911, the theatre opened and is currently acknowledged as a key symbol of Baku’s cultural history. Even without seeing a performance, you should visit this theater to admire its exquisite design and decorations. Mini Venice on Baku Boulevard Right by Baku Boulevard, visitors can enjoy several canals and rides on friendly gondolas. Besides the bridges, mini islands and corners where people are relaxed, it stands out by being gentle and far different from the modern feel of Baku. Ismailiyya Palace Designed by Józef Plośko in 1913, the Venetian Gothic palace is well known for its sad past. It was built by oil tycoon Agha Musa Naghiyev to remember his son. Today, it houses the Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan and is considered one of Baku’s most architecturally stunning landmarks. Nizami Museum of Literature Sitting at the end of Nizami Street, this museum preserves Azerbaijan’s literature. The outside of the place is impressive with statues of well-known poets and writers and inside you can admire a large collection of papers, paintings and objects from these writers. Bilgah beach To the northeast of Baku, only about 35 km away, is Bilgah Beach, acknowledged as one of the cleanest public beaches along the Caspian Sea. Unlike the city beaches with plenty of pollution, it is untouched by industry, so you get clean sand, cool water and relaxation that makes it perfect for a summer holiday. Final thoughts The major sights in Baku are certainly well-known, but the less known places give you a true glimpse into the city. If you look carefully, you’ll find that Baku is full of historical sights, charming buildings, calm beaches and pleasant surprises.

Described as the “Land of Fire,” Azerbaijan delightfully mixes incredible scenery, ancient history, unique traditions and a welcoming people. The nickname “Land of Fire” comes from the natural gas seeps and burning hills that have existed in Azerbaijan for millennia, inspiring fire worship in Zoroastrianism. If your trip to Azerbaijan lasts a few days or a few weeks, there are places and things you should discover. You can discover unique features no matter if you visit Baku or other remote regions. Explore the Flame Towers and Old City in Baku You should start in Baku because it is an exciting city by the Caspian Sea. It is obvious how different modern Flame Towers and the historical Old City are. Do not forget to explore Maiden Tower, Shirvanshah’s Palace and take a stroll along Baku Boulevard. Witness Eternal Flames at Yanar Dağ and Ateshgah The country Azerbaijan was named after its burning hills. Drive up to Yanar Dağ which has been continually burning for years as a result of gas emerging from underground. You can also visit the Ateshgah Fire Temple which was once important to followers of Zoroastrianism. These fire sites look even more mysterious when seen after dark. Taste traditional Azerbaijani cuisine Azerbaijani culture revolves around food. Delicious and special foods such as plov (rice pilaf), qutab (stuffed flatbread) and dolma (stuffed grape leaves), give the cuisine great taste. Sheki is famous for piti, a tasty lamb stew cooked in clay pots and often served there. Be sure to add fresh lavaş bread, local cheese and tea with jam to your meal. Celebrate the Goychay Pomegranate Festival Those visiting in October should go to Goychay for the annual Pomegranate Festival. During this event, you can enjoy presentations, sample fruit-based foods and see local cultural acts. It is among the most special events that happen each year. Go Skiing in the Qusar Mountains Lovers of winter sports will enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the Shahdag Mountain Resort, just outside Qusar and surrounded by mountains. Although located in the remote northern mountains, Shahdag Resort is impressively modern and caters to all types of travelers. Visit Quba and Ismayilli in Spring Spring is an ideal moment to visit the lush northern areas of Azerbaijan. Beautiful forests, short rivers and small rural communities make Quba and Ismayilli picturesque and inviting. It is possible to hike, visit orchards for apples and breathe in fresh mountain air far from busy urban areas. Discover history in Sheki and the Caucasus Mountains The city is known for its cultural value, displayed by its ancient Caravanserai, Sheki Khan’s Palace and old cobblestone streets. In 2019, the historic center of Sheki along with the Sheki Khan’s Palace was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding architectural and historical significance. In 2019, the historic center of Sheki along with the Sheki Khan’s Palace was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding architectural and historical significance. Make sure you visit nearby Kish village, where an old Christian church built in the ancient Caucasian Albanian days can be found. Connect with Azerbaijani hospitality The people are one of the best parts of visiting Azerbaijan that you won’t forget. If you meet helpful people on your train or find yourself invited for tea in the countryside, the kindness of Azerbaijanis will stay with you. Regardless of differences in language, many locals will try extra hard to welcome tourists. Conclusion Azerbaijan mixes opposites such as fire and snow, history and present-day life and the East and the West. No matter if you enjoy traditional festivals, outdoor adventures, or visiting historical sites, Azerbaijan offers special experiences you won’t find elsewhere. When organizing your visit, include time to experience the diversity and tradition in Azerbaijan outside the capital.

The amount you spend on rent, food and other bills every month may change a lot based on your location, whether you’re a local, an expat or a tourist and how you live. Baku is usually more expensive than other places such as Ganja, Sumqayit and Lankaran. Outlined below are the living costs to expect in 2025. Cost of living in Baku (Capital City) Baku serves as the capital of Azerbaijan for politics, culture and business and it is more expensive than other parts of the country. Accommodation In central Baku, 1-bedroom apartments typically cost 800–1,200 AZN/month, though locals or long-term tenants may find options for less in non-touristy neighborhoods. In suburbs: 400–700 AZN. If you're renting, expect housing to be your largest monthly expense. Utilities & Internet Electricity, water, heating, garbage: 80–150 AZN/month Internet (unlimited, good speed): 25–40 AZN/month Food & Groceries Monthly grocery cost for a single person: 300–500 AZN Family of 4 with moderate spending: 600–800 AZN Prices rise significantly if you frequently buy imported goods, fresh meat, or dine out often. Transportation Public transport (metro, bus): 0.20 AZN/trip Taxi (short trip): 2–5 AZN Fuel: Around 1 AZN/liter, costing 200–300 AZN/month for car owners Dining & Entertainment Inexpensive restaurant meal: 5–10 AZN Mid-range meal for two: 40–60 AZN Entertainment for a family of 4 (weekly): 50–70 AZN A person can live modestly with 20–50 AZN per week for entertainment if needed. Cost of living in other cities (Ganja, Lankaran, etc.) Outside Baku, the cost of living is 20–40% lower. However, while expenses are reduced in cities like Ganja or Lankaran, employment opportunities—especially for expats—can be limited. It's important to balance affordability with realistic job prospects before relocating. Rent for a decent apartment: 200–400 AZN/month Groceries and food: 200–300 AZN/month Public transportation in smaller towns is very affordable, and in some cases, subsidized or free for certain groups such as students or seniors. Many locals in smaller cities live comfortably on 600–800 AZN/month, particularly if they own their home and avoid major luxury expenses. Realistic monthly estimates Lifestyle Individual (AZN) Family of 4 (AZN) Budget living 500–700 800–1,200 Mid-range lifestyle 800–1,200 1,500–2,200 Upper-middle/luxury 1,500+ 3,000+ Some expats earning 5,000–6,000 AZN/month report financial pressure, particularly due to high rents, international school fees, and the cost of imported goods in Baku. On the other hand, many local families survive on less than 1,000 AZN/month through careful budgeting. Families with children in international schools may spend 1,500–3,000 AZN/month on tuition alone, depending on the institution. Additionally, premium healthcare plans and imported consumer goods can add significantly to monthly expenses, especially for foreign residents seeking international-level services. Conclusion Depending on your salary, where you live in Azerbaijan and your lifestyle, your monthly expenses can differ a lot. Sure, Baku can be pricey, but most other places or living on a simple budget in Azerbaijan are relatively affordable for foreigners. Anyone—both locals, digital nomads and foreigners—can have a lifestyle that works for their budget by making the right plans.

The possibility of working in Azerbaijan varies, as it depends on your citizenship, skills, the work you hope to do and importantly, your local contacts. While jobs exist, applying for them is very difficult, especially for outsiders and highly educated people who lack important contacts. Economic overview: Limited job creation outside oil sector The economy in Azerbaijan relies a lot on oil and gas, so changes in international oil prices affect the availability of jobs greatly. Even when times are good, the job market in local Azerbaijani firms is highly competitive and based on who you know. Lately, lower state budgets, closed companies and job losses have made applying for work more difficult. Lots of jobs are being created in tourism, agriculture and IT, but the demand for skilled employees still outweighs what these sectors can offer. Local companies: Connections matter more than credentials Just having the necessary qualifications and experience may not guarantee success in local Azerbaijani business. Based on what both expatriates and locals who have returned say, having personal connections can really help you land a job. Finding employment in Baku was hard for a returning MBA in Texas with an outstanding CV—until she received help from her father’s associates and was appointed at SOCAR (State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic). She admitted that in many cases, especially in state-run or traditionally structured local firms, "nobody cares about your resume or degrees unless they know who sent you". While qualifications matter, personal connections often open the door first. This indicates that people are much more likely to be interviewed if someone recommends them, even without prestigious qualifications. Foreign companies: Secure the job before you arrive Landing a job in multinational or foreign-owned companies in Azerbaijan is typically more structured, but still competitive. Many of these companies give priority to: Internal candidates Referrals from existing employees Locals with relevant experience If you're an expat, it's highly recommended to secure a job offer before relocating to Azerbaijan. Walk-in applications rarely lead to results, and many roles are filled internally or through networks. Language skills are crucial Since local companies work in mainly Azerbaijani and Russian, customers there require staff who can speak these languages as well. This matters a lot in jobs dealing directly with the public or the work of an office. Local language skills are usually valued in international companies as well. Geographical limitations: Baku vs. The rest of the country Most candidates find work in Baku which acts as the country’s capital and economic hub. The number of jobs and earnings are much lower in areas of Azerbaijan apart from Baku. Visa and legal considerations Anyone living outside the country needs a work visa to begin working legally. There are professions that get approved fast and others might require extra effort or time. The company usually takes care of obtaining your work permit. Azerbaijan also offers short-term work visa options for foreign professionals with in-demand skills, particularly in sectors such as oil & gas, finance, IT, and engineering. However, these opportunities are limited and often subject to strict eligibility criteria and employer sponsorship. Competition is high, and candidates with niche expertise or multinational experience stand a better chance of success. Conclusion It’s important to know how jobs are secured in Azerbaijan. For the most part, it’s not easy—unless you already have a friend or job waiting for you or are familiar with the place. The workforce contains much competition, processes lots of paperwork and often rewards based on connections rather than achievements. But if a person is qualified and fits well into oil, tech or tourism, there are some career paths out there. Try to learn the culture, language and how to network in order to build a good base for yourself.

Besides its history and new architecture, Baku has a food scene that showcases a variety of dishes. No matter what kind of food you’re searching for, from affordable bites to upscale dining, Baku offers excellent value at every level. Have a look at this comprehensive list of recommended restaurants to try out in Baku, suggested by real experiences and popular spots. Sumakh Restaurant Address: 20/22 Khojali Avenue Why visit: A gorgeously designed spot, where you can enjoy classic Azerbaijani dishes such as pilaf, kebabs, qutab and bread baked in a tandoor oven. Ambience: The place is decorated elegantly and traces the modern identity of Azerbaijan, along with an open kitchen. Must try: Visitors should have some lamb kebab, mangal salad and Baklava. Muzey Shirvanshah Address: 86 Salatin Asgerova Street Why visit: Part restaurant, part cultural showcase – featuring antiques, carpets, and live mugham music. Ambience: Decorated with antiques, carpets, and live mugham music performances. Must try: Shah Plov (rice with lamb and dried fruits baked in a flaky pastry shell). Tip: Make a reservation, especially on weekends. Nakhchivan Restaurant Address: 8A Parlament Avenue Why visit: Offers authentic dishes from the Nakhchivan region of Azerbaijan. Ambience: A historical setting reflecting 19th-century Baku with luxurious interiors. Must try: Lula kebab, xingal (Azeri dumplings), and pilaf varieties. Sky Grill & 360 Bar (Hilton Baku) Address: 1B Azadlig Avenue Why visit: You can enjoy amazing food and a fantastic view for romantic occasions or special events. Ambience: At 24 floors, the surroundings are chic and the view outside covers the city and nearby sea. Must try: Grilled meats, seafood and pairing them with wine. Bonus: You’ll enjoy more after-hours drinks and a sweet sunset at the 360 Bar on the top floor. Sehirli Tendir Address: 19 Kicik Qala, Icherisheher (Old City) Why visit: Best for a traditional Azerbaijani breakfast. Ambience: Cozy and rustic, located inside Baku’s Old City walls. Must try: Tandoor-baked bread with pomegranate jam, and pomidor-yumurta (egg and tomato dish). Derya Fish House Address: Seafood restaurant near Bibi Heybat Mosque Why visit: Fresh seafood by the Caspian Sea in a casual, family-friendly setting. Ambience: Laid-back beachside restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. Must try: Grilled sturgeon or catch-of-the-day fish with local vegetables. Firuze Restaurant Location: Near Fountains Square Why visit: Offers a mix of local Azerbaijani dishes at affordable prices in a traditional decor setting. Must try: Dolma, dovga (yogurt soup), and qutab (stuffed flatbread). Local dishes you should try in Baku Plov – Azerbaijani rice pilaf with meat and dried fruits Qutab – Thin stuffed pancakes (cheese, meat, or spinach) Dushbara – Tiny meat dumplings in broth Lavangi – Chicken stuffed with walnut, onion, and pomegranate Azeri Tea – Usually served in pear-shaped glasses with jam Azeri Baklava – Layered dessert with nuts and honey Təndir Çörəyi – Oven-baked bread best served fresh Final thoughts Whether you're seeking authentic street eats or refined culinary experiences, finding flavorful food in Baku is both easy and rewarding. At Sky Grill for classy cuisine, Muzey Shirvanshah for culture or Sehirli Tendir and Derya for true Azeri food, your experience of Baku’s food scene will be unforgettable.

Yes, Azerbaijan and Israel enjoy a strong connection, built on geopolitical interests, cooperation in energy, business in defense and links between their cultures. Even though most of Azerbaijan’s population is Muslim, Israel has forged a valuable and respected partnership there. Diplomatic foundations and high-level visits Azerbaijan received recognition of its independence from Israel very soon after the Soviet Union collapsed and Israel opened an embassy in Baku in 1993. Ever since, there has been steady growth in relations, largely because of visits by top leaders. Both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Shimon Peres have traveled to Azerbaijan and in 2009, Peres announced: “You bring the oil, we’ll bring the ability and technology.” Because of sensitivity about the Armenian conflict and pressure from some Muslim nations, Azerbaijan doesn’t yet have an embassy in Israel, but some top ministers there have visited in recent years. There are visits by officials from the energy, transportation, communications and emergency services areas. Strategic military and security cooperation One of the most significant areas of cooperation is in military trade and defense: In 2012, the countries finalized a deal for $1.6 billion of defense technology, including drones, anti-aircraft systems and missile defense. As a result of Israeli technology support, Azerbaijan now can build and take advantage of unmanned military systems on its own. Media reports in 2024 suggested that Azerbaijan and Israel reached an agreement on the acquisition of two military satellites, though no official confirmation has been released by either government. There are also persistent but unconfirmed reports that Israeli intelligence operates near the Azerbaijan-Iran border, a claim often denied but widely believed due to both countries’ shared concerns about Iran. Energy and economic ties Energy is a cornerstone of the Azerbaijan–Israel relationship: Each year, Israel uses about 40 percent of its oil from Azerbaijan. While Turkey remains an important transit country for regional oil exports, Azerbaijan’s direct oil exports to Israel typically rely on the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline, which connects through Turkey. SOCAR, the oil company from Azerbaijan, is taking part in oil and gas exploration off Israel’s coast for the first time outside the Caspian Sea region. Additionally, Israel has been one of Azerbaijan’s top five trading partners, showing the depth of their economic partnership. Cultural and community links Azerbaijan is also known for being a safe haven for Jews: The Jewish population in Azerbaijan which is about 20,000–25,000 people, has been living in Baku and Quba for more than 2,000 years. The community practises religious freedom and President Ilham Aliyev visits Jews regularly, wishing them happy holidays. Conclusion Azerbaijan and Israel have grown a practical relationship that benefits both sides by focusing on shared regional security issues, Iran and strong economic and military cooperation. Although privacy is important in certain parts of their relationship, it’s obvious that Azerbaijan is a secular country with a Muslim-majority population, and while it maintains a strong strategic partnership with Israel, it also balances its foreign relations with other regional powers.

India and Azerbaijan share a strong and steadily growing relationship. The two countries have enjoyed a friendly and cooperative tie since 1992 and in recent years, they have worked more closely in trade, culture, energy, healthcare and education. Diplomatic and political relations There is a good relationship between India and Azerbaijan, as the two countries often hold high-level discussions, diplomats meet and they take part together in international events. While officially neutral, India has historically maintained warmer ties with Armenia. However, this has not significantly impacted its constructive diplomatic engagement with Azerbaijan, and relations between the two remain positive. Economic cooperation India and Azerbaijan are collaborating more on energy, IT, the pharmaceutical industry and infrastructure. India is concerned with Azerbaijan’s rich oil and gas reserves and Azerbaijan receives Indian investment mostly in drugs and technology sectors. Some Indian businesses, particularly in pharmaceuticals and IT, operate in Azerbaijan to support sectors like healthcare and technology. In addition, Indian companies are known for building long-term partnerships, particularly in healthcare and education sectors, which supports their stable and consistent image in emerging markets. Because of this, India is an emerging economic partner, especially in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and technology, although its trade volume remains modest compared to Azerbaijan’s primary economic partners like Russia, Turkey, and the EU. Cultural and people-to-people ties India and Azerbaijan share a close and continually improving cultural relationship. Azerbaijanis are big fans of Bollywood, as there has been a link since Soviet times when Indian films were popular across the Soviet Union. Taking part in cultural events, student exchange programs and collaborative educational activities has helped improve links between people. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in Indian tourists visiting cities like Baku and Gabala, boosting Azerbaijan’s local tourism economy. Strategic interests India sees Azerbaijan as an opportunity to engage with the South Caucasus and Central Asia in energy matters and for joining regional projects. At the same time, Azerbaijan regards India as an important Asian partner that can expand its network of global partners. Conclusion The complexities of regional geopolitics do not upset the overall good relationship that India and Azerbaijan build on respect and increasing collaboration. Thanks to greater trade, friendship and diplomacy, their relationship is expected to grow over the next several years.

At the Fire Temple in Ateshgah, Surakhani, near Baku, Azerbaijan, there is a special connection to Zoroastrianism and Vedic Hinduism. Although often associated with Zoroastrianism due to its fire element, historical evidence shows that the current temple structure was built in the 17th–18th centuries by Hindu merchants and travelers from India. Shared roots in fire worship Both Zoroastrianism and the earliest Hindu religion focused their worship on important natural things such as fire (Agni). Long ago in Vedic times, people worshiped Agni, Vayu (air) and Indra (rain) before Hinduism began to emphasize Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. They are similar to Yagna Pooja in which lights are lit and offerings are deposited. Zoroastrians, the followers of the ancient Persian religion, regarded fire as a symbol of purity and divinity. While fire worship sites existed across the Caucasus. Although fire worship sites existed throughout the Caucasus and Zoroastrians revered fire, there is no archaeological confirmation that Ateshgah specifically was used by Zoroastrians for religious rituals. Hindu traders and Ateshgah Although trade links between Persia and India existed since ancient times, the existing structure of Ateshgah was built during the 17th–18th centuries by Indian Hindu merchants, primarily for their own religious practice. Although pressuring the people to be Zoroastrians was not forbidden. Information from the past and markings from the fireplace at the temple add weight to this view. Some of the markings show Sanskrit above and Persian below, meaning Hindus worshipped here. Recognizing the importance of the fire to their beliefs, these merchants prayed at Ateshgah just as they did at home. A unique spiritual site While not a traditional Hindu temple in a strict religious sense, Ateshgah displays architectural features typical of Hindu shrines, such as a mandapa layout and Sanskrit inscriptions, highlighting its historical use by Hindu—and occasionally Sikh—worshippers. Because of the burning temple flame, fueled with natural gas, Zoroastrians and Hindus, though following different faiths, both revered fire as sacred, creating a space of shared spiritual resonance at Ateshgah. Conclusion The Fire Temple of Ateshgah is a special place that shows just how different cultures met along old trade routes. People who consider fire holy among Hindus consider this temple a reminder of old beliefs in fire worship beyond India.