Briefing d'orientation en Azerbaïdjan

L'Azerbaïdjan, pays laïque à population majoritairement turque et majoritairement musulmane chiite, a brièvement accédé à l'indépendance (de 1918 à 1920) à la suite de l'effondrement de l'Empire russe ; il a ensuite été intégré à l'Union soviétique pendant sept décennies.

À partir de 1988, l'Azerbaïdjan et l'Arménie se sont affrontés pour la région du Haut-Karabagh, peuplée en grande partie d'Arméniens de souche, mais rattachée à l'Azerbaïdjan soviétique en tant qu'oblast autonome au début des années 1920. Pendant la période soviétique tardive, un mouvement séparatiste arménien de souche a cherché à mettre fin au contrôle azerbaïdjanais sur la région. Les combats autour du Haut-Karabagh se sont intensifiés après que l'Arménie et l'Azerbaïdjan ont accédé à l'indépendance vis-à-vis de l'Union soviétique en 1991. Lorsqu'un cessez-le-feu est entré en vigueur en 1994, les séparatistes, soutenus par l'Arménie, contrôlaient le Haut-Karabagh ainsi que sept territoires azerbaïdjanais environnants. Après des décennies de violations du cessez-le-feu et de flambées sporadiques de violence, un second conflit prolongé a éclaté en 2020, lorsque l'Azerbaïdjan a tenté de reprendre les territoires perdus dans les années 1990. À la suite des progrès importants réalisés par l'Azerbaïdjan, l'Arménie a restitué à l'Azerbaïdjan la partie sud du Haut-Karabagh ainsi que les territoires environnants. En septembre 2023, l'Azerbaïdjan a engagé une action militaire pour reprendre le reste du Haut-Karabagh ; à l'issue d'un conflit qui n'a duré qu'une journée, la quasi-totalité de la population arménienne de souche du Haut-Karabagh s'est enfuie en Arménie.

Depuis son indépendance en 1991, l'Azerbaïdjan a considérablement réduit son taux de pauvreté et a consacré une partie des recettes de sa production pétrolière et gazière au développement des infrastructures du pays. Toutefois, la corruption demeure un fardeau pour l'économie, et les observateurs occidentaux ainsi que les membres de l'opposition politique du pays accusent le gouvernement d'autoritarisme. La direction du pays est restée au sein de la famille ALIYEV depuis que Heydar ALIYEV, le plus haut responsable azerbaïdjanais du Parti communiste pendant la période soviétique, est devenu président pendant la première guerre du Haut-Karabagh, en 1993.

The political situation in Azerbaijan is generally calm, but demonstrations and opposition rallies can occur.

Avoid large gatherings and any demonstrations. They are illegal and there could be a swift response from the authorities. Monitor the media for information about possible demonstrations and be alert to local and regional developments, which may trigger public disturbances.

If you are a British journalist, make sure you are clearly identifiable.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Azerbaijan-Armenia border

The border with Armenia remains closed. The FCDO advises against all travel to within 5km of the border with Armenia, due to tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Note that this does not include the border of Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan exclave with Armenia.

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel 

South-western Azerbaijan (those regions affected by conflict in 2020 and 2023) 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to: 

• The districts (‘rayons’) of Kelbajar, Lachin, Qubadli, Zengilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Khojavand, Shusha, Khojali, Khankendi, Aghdam and Tartar

You should follow Azerbaijani national government and local authorities’ advice in areas that have not been cleared of mines or unexploded ordnance.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

UK government support

Help for British nationals is extremely limited in the areas where we advise against travel.   

Regional escalation 

There is a heightened risk of regional tension. Escalation could lead to travel disruption, including airspace closures and other unanticipated impacts. 

British nationals should take sensible precautions, considering their own individual circumstances. These include: 

• read if you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis” 

• sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts 

• monitor local and international media for the latest information 

• follow the instructions of the local authorities 

For information on crossing the border from Iran into Azerbaijan, see Entry requirements.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Follow  FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook
• Travel Aware on Instagram

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Azerbaijan.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Azerbaijan

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Azerbaijan.

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as: 

• hotels, restaurants and pubs 

• energy sector facilities 

• religious sites and places of worship 

• shopping centres and crowded places 

• embassies and government buildings 

• sporting and cultural events 

• transport hubs 

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

The political situation in Azerbaijan is generally calm, but demonstrations and opposition rallies can occur.

Avoid large gatherings and any demonstrations. They are illegal and there could be a swift response from the authorities. Monitor the media for information about possible demonstrations and be alert to local and regional developments, which may trigger public disturbances.

If you are a British journalist, make sure you are clearly identifiable.

  Armenia-Azerbaijan tensions  

Tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan have calmed and the risk of further conflict has decreased, including in the areas of those regions affected by conflict in 2020 and 2023. The FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel to some areas in south-western Azerbaijan due to the risks from mines or unexploded ordnance from former conflict, and advises against all travel within 5km of the border with Armenia. See Regional Risks.

Crime

Crime levels in Baku are generally low. Be alert to possible bag-snatching or mugging, particularly if you are carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. The risk is higher after dark in the centre of town. Avoid displaying large sums of money or expensive-looking valuables and do not walk alone at night.

Dealing with officials

There are occasionally reports of government officials asking foreign nationals to make undocumented payments. If you think you have been mistreated by a traffic policeman or health professional, report your case to the relevant government department.

Bank card fraud  

Fraudsters can steal your card details without you noticing. Take extra care to guard against card skimming when using credit cards or withdrawing cash from ATMs. Use ATMs inside banks where possible, check street ATMs for signs of tampering, and always keep your card in sight when paying in shops and restaurants.

Laws and cultural differences

Azerbaijan is a largely secular society, although most of the population is Muslim. Religion is usually considered a private matter. 

Some areas, such as Martyrs’ Alley, are especially sensitive. Disruptive or disrespectful conduct in or around such area may result in police action, including fines or being summoned to the police station.

Personal ID

Police sometimes carry out checks of identity documents. Carry your passport at all times. Keep a copy of the photo page in a safe place.

Dress code

In Baku local and foreign women usually dress in conservative western-style clothing. It is now more acceptable for men to wear shorts in Baku in the summer months. Outside of Baku it may still be frowned on, and you may receive unwelcome attention.

Ramadan  

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country.

Most restaurants, cafés, shops and other services in Azerbaijan continue to operate during Ramadan. Some businesses may adjust their opening hours or offer special Ramadan arrangements.

During Ramadan, you should:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants, as these may vary

• respect local religious customs and traditions

• follow local dress codes, particularly when visiting religious sites - clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time

• be aware that some people may be fasting and may be more tired than usual, especially in the late afternoon and early evening

• be patient and considerate towards those who are observing Ramadan

Smoking restrictions 

Smoking is restricted to designated areas. You can be fined for dropping smoking-related litter. Use bins provided.

Illegal drugs

Possession or use of illegal drugs, including cannabis, carries severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using, or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.

Airports in Azerbaijan have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Using cameras and drones in sensitive locations

Be aware of cultural sensitivities when photographing mosques, churches and other religious sites or sites of commemoration, such as the Alley of Martyrs in Baku. If in doubt, ask for permission.

Military bases, equipment and installations in any condition are considered sensitive areas, and visitors have been detained and questioned while attempting to visit or photograph them.

If you do not have temporary or permanent residence rights in Azerbaijan, you are not allowed to import drones. Any drones will be confiscated by the State Customs Office at the port or border and returned upon departure. 

Unmanned drones cannot be rented to individuals without a valid taxpayer identification number (TIN). If you have a TIN, special permission from the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport is required. Manned drones can be rented without requiring permission.

LGBT+ travellers

While same-sex sexual activity is not illegal, LGBT+ people in Azerbaijan tend to keep a low profile. Showing affection in public is frowned upon, especially outside of Baku and among the older generation.

Holding hands or embracing between men is usually a sign of friendship.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Azerbaijan, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC guide on driving in Azerbaijan. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

It is illegal to use right-hand-drive cars in Azerbaijan.

Inter-country road travel 

There may be delays in transporting vehicles to Azerbaijan. It is best not to pay for non-refundable  onward travel. Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Closed Joint-Stock Company has details of onward shipment from Baku to Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan.

Licences and permits

You’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

After one month, you will need an Azerbaijani driving licence issued through the ASAN Service Offices. You need to carry a green card as proof you’re insured to drive in Azerbaijan.

If you’re planning to hire a car, check with your car hire company for information on their requirements before you travel.

Driving conditions

Many vehicles are poorly maintained, and the standard of driving is erratic. Accidents are common, mainly due to poor or reckless driving and inconsistent enforcement of traffic rules. Drivers often ignore one-way signs.

Road closures and diversions are often unmarked. Take care when driving at night as many roads are of poor quality and badly lit. Traffic lights that are flashing amber at night mean cars can proceed with caution in either direction.

Drink-driving is a serious offence in in Azerbaijan. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a severe fine and possibly a prison sentence. 

In the winter months snowfall often causes problems. Pack your vehicle with a blanket, shovel, torch, snacks and old carpet to help if you get stuck in snow.

Taxis

Try to arrange to be picked up and dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible by a private or company driver, or use a known firm or taxi app.

Some visitors have reported being severely overcharged by local taxis. When using taxis, agree a fare up front, or make sure the taxi meter is switched on. Check that the taxi has working seatbelts.

Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt are widely available in Azerbaijan.

Rail travel    

If you travel by train, secure your valuables, do not leave the compartment unattended, and lock the door from the inside, if your compartment allows.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Earthquakes

There is a risk of earthquakes across the Caucasus region, although there have been no recent serious earthquakes in Azerbaijan. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

This section has safety advice for regions of Azerbaijan. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

South-western Azerbaijan (those regions affected by conflict in 2020 and 2023) 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to some areas in south-western Azerbaijan, including districts in and around the region formerly known as “Nagorno-Karabakh” due to the risks from leftover military equipment and weapons from former conflict. This includes: 

• the districts (‘rayons’) of Kelbajar, Lachin, Qubadli, Zengilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Khojavand, Shusha, Khojali, Khankendi, Aghdam and Tartar

It is illegal to enter certain areas in south-western Azerbaijan, without the permission of the Azerbaijani authorities. Anyone who has previously visited these areas, including the town of Khankendi, without the permission of Azerbaijani authorities could be denied entry to Azerbaijan. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan before you travel. 

Whilst tensions have calmed and the risk of further conflict has decreased, there remains a risk of unexploded weapons and landmines in south-western Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani authorities are working to remove unexploded weapons and landmines.  

Follow Azerbaijani national government and local authorities’ advice in areas that have not been cleared of mines or unexploded ordnance. If you come across an unexploded weapon or landmine do not approach it or touch it. Make a note of where you saw it and notify the authorities on 102 or 112. Beware of more unexploded weapons or landmines nearby.

Azerbaijan-Armenia border

The border with Armenia remains closed. The FCDO also advises against all travel to within 5km of the rest of the border with Armenia. Note that this does not include the border of Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan exclave with Armenia.

Azerbaijan-Russia border

The land border between Azerbaijan and Russia (Dagestan) is closed. The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Russia. For further details, see FCDO’s travel advice for Russia.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 103 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Azerbaijan
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Go to TravelHealthPro to see what health risks you’ll face in Azerbaijan.

Altitude sickness is a risk in some parts of Azerbaijan, including the ski resorts of Shahdag and Tufangdag in the Gusar district, Lake Batabat in Nakhchivan, and the Talysh mountains. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare facilities in Azerbaijan

Medical facilities outside Baku are very limited. Carry a comprehensive first aid kit for any trips out of Baku. Even in Baku, serious illness or injury may require evacuation to Turkey or Western Europe. Make sure you have appropriate travel health insurance.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Azerbaijan where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.