Azerbaijan Tourism Experts Disagree on Growth

Azerbaijan’s tourism future is stirring debate—experts are divided. Supporters point to Azerbaijan’s rich potential: UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Walled City of Baku with its Shirvanshahs’ Palace and Maiden Tower, Gobustan National Park, and the Historic Monuments of Sheki with the Khan’s Palace. Combine that with the country’s breathtaking natural beauty—mud volcanoes, Lake Goygol, Shaki National Park—and history stretching back thousands of years. For some, these are the ingredients for rapid tourism growth. But others warn of challenges—political instability, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, COVID-19’s impact, and tough competition from neighbours like Turkey and Georgia. The debate matters. Optimism could drive more investment, promotion, new tourism services—and a stronger brand. Skepticism, by contrast, brings critical scrutiny—pushing for sustainability, infrastructure improvements, and responsible growth. The outcome? A booming tourism wave—or cautious, sustainable growth. Azerbaijan now stands at a crossroads.