FAQs

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.

Azerbaijan combines beautiful nature, history and cultural appeal and the good news is that many top places to visit there are reasonable for travelers. Some of the best and cheapest great destinations in Azerbaijan are mountain villages, towns along the coast and old landmarks. Gabala (Qabala) Located further north, Gabala is next to fertile mountains and gorgeous scenery. You can enjoy the scenic mountains, local parks, and family-friendly attractions in Gabala during your stay. Since summer attracts more tourists locally, the prices may rise a bit, but cheap places to stay are still available. Don’t forget about the Gabala International Music Festival which is held outside each summer. There are nearby villages, such as Vandam and the Tufandag Mountain Resort area, where you can enjoy peaceful nature, small waterfalls, and local guesthouses in a relaxed setting. Sheki (Shaki) To the west is Gabala and Sheki holds a rich heritage of customs and culture. The Sheki Khan’s Palace is here, famous for its glass windows and skillful interior design. The Sheki Karvansaray is an ancient inn that traders and merchants used for centuries and visitors can spend time in it. Kish Temple, one of the Caucasus’ oldest churches, is an interesting place to see. Try some Sheki bakhlavasi which is a special type of baklava made here for both its flavor and texture. Lahij Village Lahij sits in the mountains and is well-known for its work in copper and its cobbled streets. Here, people continue to speak Tati, an old Iranian language. The area is perfect for visitors who want to stroll through the streets, purchase local gifts and hear about local Azerbaijani life—all without spending much. Nabran Nabran is a quiet village located at the entry point where the forest curves into the Caspian Sea in Khachmaz in the northeast. You should go to Nabran in summer; it’s inexpensive and away from the main cities. Note that services in Nabran are limited during winter and early spring due to cold weather and fewer visitors. You’ll notice that the area includes beaches, verdant nature and fresh air. Lankaran and Masalli They are famous for their subtropical weather, tea farms and warm springs.You’ll find that cheap wellness trips in Azerbaijan can include sulfur-rich mineral springs, especially around Masalli, where you can find hot mineral springs like Istisu. Yanar Bulag, known for its flaming spring, is located further south near Astara.. However, services may be limited without a private vehicle. Gobustan and Mud Volcanoes Just one hour from Baku, Gobustan has petroglyphs and mud volcanoes that cannot be found anywhere else. It’s rather surprising, but the clay is used for therapeutic purposes and the experience is unlike that offered elsewhere. Because tickets are so affordable, it’s easy to visit for a fun day out. Baku (the Capital) Baku can be costly in certain areas, although plenty of its attractions are easy to access at little cost. Roll through Icheri Sheher, amble down Baku Boulevard, stop by Qiz Qalasi or enjoy a day at Bilgah or Shikhov Beach, which are more budget-friendly public options than private beaches like Amburan. Taste local food at inexpensive restaurants and buy your items at nearby markets. To reach many of these scenic rural areas, travelers often use long-distance buses, shared taxis, or private cars, as public transport options may be limited. No matter if you love nature, history or are on a budget, Azerbaijan has lots of affordable things to explore.

If you’d like to take up Azerbaijani in Azerbaijan, you could ask if private language schools are open for this purpose. While some private tutors or small centers may offer Azerbaijani lessons, comprehensive and accredited programs are more commonly found at public universities. Public institutions offering Azerbaijani language courses Two well-known universities in Baku offer formal Azerbaijani language programs specifically for foreigners: Baku Slavic University (BSU) Has a 1-year program for international students to learn Azerbaijani. Tuition fee: 1000 AZN (approximately $588 USD). Students attending courses at BSU are granted a temporary residence permit in Azerbaijan for the duration of the program. At BSU, language and culture are priority learning areas, which makes it an excellent place for language immersion. Baku State University Also offers a one-year course in Azerbaijani, made to help non-native speakers learn the language. Tuition fee: $900 USD. Includes the right for students to live legally in Azerbaijan while they study. As one of the country’s oldest and most respected universities, it teaches in a structured and academic way. What about private schools? If you are looking for a private language center in Baku, most are concentrated on English, Russian, Turkish, or preparation for different tests. In public universities, it is common to learn Azerbaijani because it is a language of the country and most people don’t have a specific need for it. If, on the other hand, you’d like quick lessons from an individual teacher or small business, you can try looking for tutors in expat groups online, on classified ad websites, or through local newspapers. Unlike accredited institutions, private tutoring arrangements do not entitle learners to obtain a residence permit in Azerbaijan. Residence and legal stay Students in BSU or Baku State University have the legality to remain in Azerbaijan for the time taken to complete the course. This is usually different for private tutoring or informal education programs.

According to the current rules, Turkish citizens can now travel to Azerbaijan for up to ninety days without a visa. Turkish citizens do not need a visa to spend up to 90 days in Azerbaijan over a 180-day period for tourism and business purposes. Sometimes, people are confused about visa rules because old knowledge is clouding the issue. Historical context Before, Turkish citizens were required to have a visa to enter Azerbaijan, though the visa was easy to apply for either online or when arriving at the airport. Such a requirement was set due to regular visa procedures, not political issues; in fact, these countries have a close political, cultural, and economic relationship usually called “one nation, two states". Visa-free travel agreement Last year, Azerbaijan and Turkey made an agreement that allows citizens of both countries to visit one another without a visa. Following the changes, people with a Turkish passport in any of these categories don’t need a visa to go to Azerbaijan. It mirrors the strong regional and strategic partnership existing between Azerbaijan and Turkey, especially after both countries stood together in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh crisis. Entry requirements for Turkish citizens While no visa is required, Turkish citizens must still: Ensure that your passport is up-to-date and is valid for at least 6 months after you enter the country. Travelers staying more than 15 days must register their place of residence with the State Migration Service or via their hotel — this is not a visa but a residency registration requirement. Follow all customs and health rules, paying special attention to COVID-19 regulations, if they are in place during your trip. Common misunderstanding Some travelers might believe that a visa is still required due to: Old online sources that have not been changed or updated since they were made. Third-party visa agencies that are still showing Turkish people how to get Azerbaijani visas, but you have to pay for this service. Confusion of visa rules when going through Azerbaijan to get to another country.

Yes, but with important caveats. It's essential to understand the political sensitivities and realities at the border when planning travel between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Border situation and travel routes You cannot enter Azerbaijan directly from Armenia. The land border between Armenia and Azerbaijan remains closed due to ongoing political tensions and occasional clashes. Travelers must transit through a third country — usually Georgia or Iran — to travel from one country to the other. Armenian stamp in your passport Entry is not guaranteed, as border officials have discretionary authority to assess each traveler’s case. While most travelers are admitted, occasional refusals may occur in specific contexts, especially if there are security concerns or unclear travel records. That said, entry is not guaranteed. Border officials in Azerbaijan have broad discretionary powers. Even in the absence of legal restrictions, an overzealous or nationalist officer may deny entry based on personal judgment. It’s rare, but it happens. High-risk factor: Nagorno-karabakh The real issue arises if your passport contains evidence (such as stamps or visas) showing a prior visit to Nagorno-Karabakh — particularly during the time it was under Armenian control (as the self-proclaimed Republic of Artsakh). Despite Azerbaijan’s full territorial control since late 2023, such visits are still considered illegal entry, and travelers may face permanent entry bans or extensive questioning. Armenia’s policy on Azerbaijani stamps On the flip side, Armenia is generally relaxed about travelers who have visited Azerbaijan. An Azerbaijani stamp may prompt a few questions from Armenian officers, but entry is typically smooth and hassle-free. Recommended travel order Given these realities, the safe and practical advice is: Visit Azerbaijan before Armenia, not the other way around. This minimizes the chances of entry problems or complications with customs officials in Azerbaijan.

Located in Baku – the capital city of Azerbaijan, Nigerians experience an unusual and diverse experience while they grow in culture, economy, and socialization.Although not commonly ranked among top African expat destinations, Baku has steadily attracted a growing number of Nigerians, particularly students and professionals. This is the life of a Nigerian in Baku. Community and social integration Many Nigerians living in Baku describe the city as peaceful and welcoming. The community of Nigerians though not large, is quite close-knit and maintains natural ties through informal channels, organizations of students and through social events. Most Azerbaijanis are very nice, curious as to foreigners’ cultures, and Nigerians usually receive warm gestures of hospitality, especially when locals learn someone is from Africa, particularly Nigeria. That said, language barriers might initially be an issue as Azerbaijani is the official language, and Russian is spoken in virtually all areas of Azerbaijan. English is confined outside academic or tourism circles, thus it takes time to adapt. Yet, lots of Nigerians claim they can conduct daily life with a combination of native communication abilities and translation apps as well as community help. Education and employment There are many Nigerians in Baku, studying abroad, at schools such as Azerbaijan Medical University, ADA University, or Baku State University. Compared to many Western territories, the state of Azerbaijan provides more affordable education and the cost of living is more or less reasonable. The job market in Baku is competitive for foreigners, especially outside high-demand fields such as IT, education, or energy. Any English-teaching jobs (or positions within NGOs and the oil industry) are very occasionally available, but work permits and local hiring preferences are a barrier. Many Nigerians in Azerbaijan engage in freelance or remote work, as student visas do not allow legal employment, and formal jobs are often limited to high-demand sectors like IT, oil and gas, or education. Securing a work visa requires employer sponsorship, which is rare for most foreigners outside specialized industries. However, obtaining work permits and formal employment can be difficult due to local hiring preferences and regulatory constraints. Many Nigerians rely on freelancing, online work, or pursue further education. Cost of living and lifestyle The price of living in Baku is much lower compared to most large European cities. Rent, food and transportation are cheap, by international standards. Nigerians typically rent apartments or student flats to ensure that the income goes as far as possible. While Azerbaijani cuisine differs significantly from Nigerian food, authentic Nigerian ingredients and dishes are hard to find. Some basic items can be sourced from Turkish or international markets, but many Nigerians prefer cooking at home or even bringing essential spices and condiments from abroad. Social life includes cafes, city parks and local happenings, however, nightlife is quieter than in larger global cities. Cultural experiences and safety Culturally, Baku is composed of Eastern European and Central Asian cultures that provide Nigerians an opportunity to benefit from something unique. Historical sites, seaside promenades, and Land-scape made weekend travel pleasant. Baku is generally said to be safe and secure. Nigerians say they feel comfortable moving around the city even at night. However, just as with any other foreign country, it bears to abide by local laws and customs. Conclusion For many Nigerians living in Baku, life is a blend of adaptation and opportunity—navigating cultural differences while embracing new experiences in a distinct region. Despite its relatively low international profile and seemingly reserved environment, Azerbaijan’s capital offers an appealing home-away-from-home. With affordable living costs, educational prospects, and a peaceful atmosphere, Baku presents a quiet but meaningful lifestyle. While adjusting to cultural norms may take time, those who are open-minded and resourceful often find a fulfilling and enriching life in the city.

Pakistan - Azerbaijan relationship is warm, strategic, and based on mutual respect, common norms, and sound diplomatic support. Political, defense, cultural, and people to people ties between the two countries continue to thicken even by the year 2024. The bond is not only at the governmental level, but also cherished among the citizens. Diplomatic and political relations Pakistan also was one of the earliest countries to recognize the independence of Azerbaijan following the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then both the countries have kept good diplomatic relations and both have often backed each other in forums like the United Nations, OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) and ECO(Economic Cooperation Organization). It is noteworthy that Pakistan, one of only a few countries, does not recognize Armenia as a state because of its support for Azerbaijan in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Azerbaijan, in return, supports Pakistan’s position on the Kashmir dispute, thus tightening their geo-political alliance. Military and strategic cooperation Pakistan and Azerbaijan have expanded their bilateral cooperation into the defense and military training sectors. Giving the two countries regular diplomatic consultation on defense and joint military training, the Pakistani army has trained personnel from Azerbaijan and has participated in defense consultations, though direct military equipment transfers have not been officially confirmed. Pakistan’s strong diplomatic backing during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war further solidified its positive image among the Azerbaijani public. In its turn, Azerbaijan recognizes the strong position of Pakistan as a faithful ally. Public sentiment and cultural connection One notable aspect of the Pakistan-Azerbaijan relationship is the mutual admiration and warmth expressed by people from both countries, often seen in public discourse and tourism encounters. Foreign tourists from Pakistan often state that they are welcome in Azerbaijan. In cities such as Baku and in northwestern regions too the citizens often greet Pakistani tourists with terms such as “dost” (friend), “birader” (brother) or “kardaş” (a sibling) – this is genuine friendship. There are also overlaps of the linguistic and the cultural, especially between the Azeri and the Urdu. There are some overlapping vocabulary items due to shared Islamic and Persianate influences, but the languages are distinct and not mutually intelligible. Shared historical and cultural values The two countries have strong Islamic cultural backgrounds and pride in the nation, hospitality, and traditions. The enthusiasm for shared music (such as Pakistan’s Coke Studio) and culture two can very often be seen in social media where Azerbaijanis will leave friendly comments on Pakistani content often referred to as a ‘brotherhood triangle’ in popular discourse, though this is symbolic rather than institutional. Challenges and awareness gaps Although Azerbaijanis are generally aware of and sympathetic toward Pakistan, public awareness in Pakistan about Azerbaijan remains limited. However, this is gradually improving through increased tourism, government-funded scholarships, and exposure to Azerbaijan’s global presence in sports and media—such as hosting events like Formula 1 and Eurovision. Conclusion The relations of Pakistan and Azerbaijan are of real brotherhood based on mutual diplomatic and defense cooperation as well as on warm-hearted feelings of the common people. As they continue to co-exist closely as both nations, perhaps, with Turkey as a friend they both share, their relationship is likely to grow stronger. The Pakistan–Azerbaijan friendship serves as a compelling model of solidarity in the modern world, regardless of collaboration or cultural exchange.

Turning to the current relations between Azerbaijan and Turkey, we observe a strategic partnership, a deep-rooted partnership grounded in shared culture, and growing cooperation in political, military, and economic domains. As often presented by the countries “one nation, two states”, the Azerbaijan–Turkey alliance is further strengthening in 2024. Historical and cultural ties Turkey and Azerbaijan have shared Turkic heritage, similar language and strong cultural affinity. These common roots have established a natural bond that has been further strengthened in both regional and international matters. Azerbaijan considers Turkey to be a great ally while Turkey constantly champions Azerbaijan in the world. Political alliance Diplomatic ties between the two countries are strong and active, with frequent high-level exchanges and mutual support on international platforms. High level state visits are a constant feature and the governments publicly declare solidarity for various platforms, the United Nations, Organization of Turkic States and Non Aligned Movement. Turkey was the first country to recognize the independence of Azerbaijan when the Soviet Union collapsed, in 1991. Political cooperation, since has multiplied tremendously. In 2021, the two states signed the Shusha Declaration in the city of Shusha—recently retaken by Azerbaijan during the Karabakh conflict. The declaration not only symbolizes unity but also outlines commitments to mutual defense, and cooperation in education, sports, media, and regional connectivity. Military cooperation Military cooperation is the cornerstone of the relations of Azerbaijan and Turkey. Turkey’s support played a significant role in Azerbaijan’s military operations to regain control over parts of Nagorno-Karabakh during the 2020 conflict. Conceptual drills between allied forces are underway, and defense companies of Turkey are involved in the process of modernizing Azerbaijan’s military. The Shusha Declaration also provides mutual defense and military cooperation commitments. However, the close military ties between Turkey and Azerbaijan—especially after the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War—have raised concerns among neighboring countries. Armenia views the alliance with apprehension, while Iran has repeatedly expressed unease about Turkish military presence and exercises near its northern border. Economic and energy partnerships Trade and energy relationships between Azerbaijan and Turkey are ever increasing. Azerbaijan is a key regional energy exporter, Turkey is a consumer and also a transit country. Key energy projects include: Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline – Caspian sea oil to Mediterranean. Trans – Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) – the pipeline for the delivery of Azerbaijani gas into Europe through the territory of Turkey. Beside energy, bilateral trade volume is also growing, with targets to reach more than $15 billion per year soon. Turkish companies undertake infrastructure, construction and telecommunications projects in Azerbaijan. Cultural and educational exchange Culture and education are closely coupled together. Azerbaijani students study in Turkey in large numbers, and there are partnerships between Azerbaijan and the Turkish universities. Cultural centers foster shared learning of language and preservation of history. Conclusion In conclusion, the existing relationship between Azerbaijan and Turkey is a strategic brotherhood based on the common history, similar interests and future oriented cooperation. The partnership between such Turkic countries extends beyond military relations, energy ventures and diplomatic backing and is still very robust that continues to develop in 2024.

Baku and other cities in Azerbaijan offer a modern and affordable public transit network. The well-developed infrastructure provides easy access for residents and visitors alike. The national transit infrastructure received major capital investments from the government which produced an efficient system comprising metro lines and city buses, taxis, shared minibuses and intercity transportation. Baku Metro: Fast and reliable Getting around Baku through the Baku Metro system proves to be among the most effective public transit methods in the city. The Baku Metro operates daily from early morning until midnight across three main lines: the Red Line (Line 1), the Green Line (Line 2), and the Purple Line (Line 3, currently being expanded). These lines connect major residential, commercial, and administrative areas in the city. This metropolis transport system stands out because of its clean facilities and safe environment as well as its architectural greatness which makes it a dependable service for those who need to travel. The train arrives regularly throughout peak times while costing lower prices than other global transit systems. Bus services across the city Central Baku along with its suburbs has transportation through buses that offer comprehensive service. Baku operates two groups of city buses including modern air-conditioned vehicles alongside older models which continue operating selected transportation paths. Current buses operate with electronic payments that utilize the citywide card system yet several old buses require cash payments. Major bus stops in Baku offer digital displays that show both schedules and route information. BakıKART: One card for all BakıKART is the unified payment solution for public transportation in Baku only. It is not valid in other cities such as Sumgayit, Ganja, or Lankaran, where cash or paper tickets remain the primary payment methods. The BakıKART smart card serves as an easy and rechargeable payment system for customers who want to ride buses and metro lines. Relying on both permanent and temporary options the BakıKART payment system provides accessibility for residents who stay permanently as well as visitors who keep their stay short. Residents of Baku can buy BakıKARTs which they can refill at all metro stations in addition to vending machines and approved local retailers. Travelers can enhance their transit experience by using apps like Moovit for real-time route planning and the BakıKART Mobile App to check card balance, top-up locations, and public transit schedules. Taxis and ride-hailing options There exists a range of taxi services in Azerbaijan which suit different customer requirements and spending capabilities. You can access standard city taxis and the unique purple cabs based on London taxi design in Baku. The convenience and often lower costs of ride-hailing apps make them an increasingly preferred option instead of regular taxis during recent times. The apps present live fare calculations together with route mapping features which help users design their travel routes effectively. Marshrutkas: Affordable and flexible Marshrutkas, or shared minibuses, are a common form of transportation throughout Azerbaijan. Operating on fixed routes but offering flexible stops, they are frequently used by locals for both urban and rural travel. While marshrutkas are highly economical and serve areas not accessible by metro or large buses, they may not be suitable for first-time tourists due to the lack of English signage, unclear route information, and overcrowding during peak hours. Intercity travel: Trains and coaches Azerbaijan provides intercity train service and long-distance bus service for journeying past Baku. Major Azerbaijani towns including Ganja and Sumgayit join together with other essential regions through the train network. The transportation network includes buses which supply connections from city to city as well as neighboring countries. Travelers can select from either trains or buses for their journeys since these transportation methods prove secure and affordable across Azerbaijan. Conclusion Azerbaijan maintains an expanding public transportation network which offers accessible fares to its users. People commuting within Baku along with those visiting other regions of Azerbaijan can benefit from a variety of transportation options through metro along with marshrutkas which ensure easy and convenient travel. Individuals who utilize BakıKART can experience improved mobility and better discover public transportation networks in Baku.