Azerbaijan and Qatar: How Cooperation Is Turning the Caucasus Into a New Destination for Travelers From the Gulf

The partnership between Azerbaijan and Qatar is rapidly expanding beyond the fields of energy and investments, forming new bridges in the travel industry. In recent years, tourism relations between the two countries have strengthened noticeably: Azerbaijan is actively promoting its travel opportunities across the Gulf region, while Qatar — one of the world leaders in outbound tourism — is becoming an important market for presentations, exhibitions, and B2B travel programs.

Together, these efforts are shaping a new dynamic: travelers from Qatar are increasingly choosing Azerbaijan as a comfortable, nearby, and luxurious destination, and tour operators are integrating Azerbaijani routes into their premium travel catalogs.

Azerbaijan regularly participates in one of the Gulf’s major travel exhibitions — Qatar Travel Mart (QTM). The national stand attracts the attention of both visitors and industry professionals. Such participation is a strategic step: the Gulf hosts some of the world’s strongest markets for premium holidays, wellness tourism, and family travel.

Azerbaijan’s presence at QTM includes destination presentations, meetings with GCC travel agencies, and promotional campaigns tailored to audiences in Qatar and neighboring countries. These efforts have significantly increased awareness of Azerbaijan throughout the region.

Cooperation between the two countries has been strengthened through Familiarization (FAM) trips for representatives of the Gulf tourism sector. In 2024, Azerbaijan welcomed a large delegation of leading GCC tour operators, including companies from Qatar. They explored Baku, Gabala, the Shahdag mountain resort, and key cultural and historical sites.

Such programs are far more effective than traditional advertising: operators experience the destination personally, evaluate hotels, restaurants, and service quality, and test routes themselves. As a result, their travel catalogs expand, and tourists receive richer, better-developed travel packages.

One of the main factors influencing the rise of Qatari tourism to Azerbaijan is the presence of direct flights. Qatar Airways operates Doha–Baku flights, offering a fast and comfortable journey without layovers.

This allows Azerbaijan to be promoted not only as a long-stay destination but also as a perfect “short luxury escape” for 3–5 days.

Azerbaijan continues to strengthen its global tourism identity — including through its cooperation with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). This strengthens confidence among investors, travel agencies, and international partners.

For Qatari travelers, this is important: Gulf tourists often choose destinations with a strong international brand, high-quality service, and a safe, welcoming environment.

• Winter — ski resorts of Shahdag

• Summer — Caspian Sea beaches

• Year-round — Baku, Ganja, Gabala, Sheki, and mountain regions

Halal cuisine, mosques, shared traditions of hospitality, and family-oriented culture make Azerbaijan a familiar and welcoming destination.

Flavored rice dishes, dolma, sweets, and tea traditions mirror the tastes of Gulf travelers who appreciate rich cuisine and top-quality ingredients.

Modern hotels, international brands, and strong service standards make Azerbaijan ideal for families and luxury travelers.

What Qatari Tourists Choose Most

✔ Luxury weekend escapes in Baku

✔ Ski packages at Shahdag

✔ Gastronomy tours and sweet tastings

✔ Premium & MICE travel

✔ Family holidays in Gabala, Sheki, and mountain resorts

Qatar citizens can use Azerbaijan’s ASAN e-Visa system.

Since visa rules change periodically, travelers are advised to check the latest requirements on the official portal before traveling.

Tourism cooperation between Azerbaijan and Qatar continues to develop actively and strategically. Through travel fairs, FAM trips, direct flights, and growing interest from the Gulf region, Azerbaijan is solidifying its position as a modern, welcoming, and unique destination.

For Qatari travelers, this means easy access to luxury short breaks, rich cultural experiences, and authentic hospitality — making every trip not just a vacation, but a true discovery.