Azerbaijan

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.