Azerbaijan poised to reclaim status as top destination for Russian tourists PHOTO

Azerbaijan is set to reemerge as a popular destination for Russian travelers, said the country’s ambassador to Russia, Rahman Mustafayev, who spoke at a tourism presentation in Moscow.

Organized by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, the event drew around 140 representatives from Russian tour operators and travel agencies. It featured 13 leading figures from Azerbaijan’s tourism sector, including major hotels, travel agencies, the Shahdag Tourism Complex, and national carrier AZAL. Participants discussed opportunities to strengthen cooperation and expand tourist flows between the two countries, Caliber.Az reports via state media.

Mustafayev noted that 2024 saw a significant influx of Russian visitors to Azerbaijan, and despite a decline last year, early 2026 figures indicate a recovery. “Azerbaijan is set to once again become a sought-after destination for Russian tourists, as well as for visitors from other countries,” he said.

The ambassador emphasized that Azerbaijan and Russia are actively working to normalize relations, highlighting positive developments in trade, economic ties, and political and humanitarian cooperation.

He also underscored Azerbaijan’s stability amid a challenging regional and international environment. “Beyond its natural beauty, rich cuisine, and the hospitality of the Azerbaijani people, the country remains a bastion of safety, stability, and prosperity. This is a critical factor for tourism. Despite geopolitical challenges, we have maintained social stability and economic growth,” Mustafayev said.

Jalal Ismayilov, head of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board’s office in Russia, followed with a presentation on the country’s tourism offerings, highlighting regional routes, diverse leisure options, cultural and wellness tourism, gastronomic experiences, and national festivals. The event concluded with B2B meetings between Azerbaijani and Russian tourism representatives to explore future collaborations.

A similar tourism presentation is scheduled for March 18 in Saint Petersburg, as Azerbaijan continues its push to strengthen its profile as a premier destination in the region.

By Vafa Guliyeva