Practical Information

Essential details for your Baku airport experience

Important Contacts

Airport Helpdesk

+994 12 497 27 27

Available 24/7 for questions, assistance, and inquiries. Multilingual staff available.

Other Important Numbers

Police Emergency: 102

Medical Emergency: 103

Fire Emergency: 101

Tourist Police: +994 12 924 94 24

Lost & Found: Ask information desk

Currency & Money

Local Currency

Azerbaijani Manat (AZN)

Symbol: ₼

Code: AZN

Denominations: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 AZN (notes) and coins

Exchange Rate: Approximately 1 USD = 1.65-1.70 AZN (check current rates)

Money Exchange & ATMs

  • • Multiple exchange counters in arrivals hall
  • • ATMs throughout terminals (withdraw AZN directly)
  • • Credit cards accepted at most shops and restaurants
  • • Fair exchange rates, similar to city rates
  • • No commissions at official counters

Money Tips

  • • Exchange small amounts at the airport; better rates in the city for large amounts
  • • Keep small bills for taxis, buses, and tips
  • • Tipping is appreciated (10% at restaurants, small amounts for services)
  • • Cash is preferred at markets and small establishments

Language & Communication

Languages

  • Official: Azerbaijani
  • In Airport: English widely spoken, especially at information desks
  • In Baku: English common among younger people and in tourist areas
  • Russian: Widely understood, especially by older generations

Mobile & Internet

  • • SIM cards available at airport shops
  • • Major operators: Azercell, Bakcell, Nar
  • • Prepaid packages very affordable
  • • Free Wi-Fi: Baku_Airport network throughout terminal
  • • Mobile data speeds generally good

Communication Tips

  • • Download Google Translate or similar app for offline translation
  • • Learn basic Azerbaijani phrases - locals appreciate the effort
  • • Airport staff and information centers speak English
  • • Hotels and tour companies have English-speaking staff

Time & Operating Hours

Time Zone

AZT (UTC+4)

Year-round, no daylight saving time. Time remains constant throughout the year.

Example differences:

  • GMT +4 hours ahead of London
  • 5 hours ahead of New York
  • 14 hours behind Tokyo

Airport Operating Hours

  • Airport: Open 24/7
  • Check-in: Opens 2-3 hours before flights
  • Duty Free Shops: 06:00 - 23:30 (vary by location)
  • Restaurants/Cafes: 06:00 - 23:30 (some 24-hour options)
  • Information Desk: 24/7 service

Visas & Travel Requirements

Visa on Arrival

Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Heydar Aliyev International Airport.

  • • Valid for 30 days
  • • Required documents: valid passport, completed form
  • • Cost: Approximately 50-100 AZN (varies by nationality)
  • • Processing time: 15-30 minutes
  • • Cash payment preferred (some cards accepted)

Passport & Documentation

  • Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months
  • Return Ticket: May be requested
  • Accommodation: Have hotel booking or contact details
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended (not mandatory)
  • Yellow Fever: Certificate required if arriving from certain countries

Important Note

Visa requirements change frequently. Visit the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (mfa.gov.az) or contact your nearest Azerbaijani embassy for current and specific information based on your nationality.

Prohibited Items

Do not attempt to bring the following into Azerbaijan:

  • ✗ Illegal drugs
  • ✗ Weapons & ammunition
  • ✗ Explosives
  • ✗ Protected wildlife
  • ✗ Counterfeit goods
  • ✗ Certain publications
  • ✗ Religious materials (in some cases)
  • ✗ Large quantities of currency (declare if over $10,000)

Climate & Packing Tips

Weather by Season

  • Spring (Apr-May): 15-25°C, pleasant, occasional rain
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): 25-35°C, hot and dry
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): 10-20°C, mild, occasional rain
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): 0-10°C, cool, occasional rain/snow

Packing Recommendations

  • • Comfortable walking shoes
  • • Light layers (temperatures vary)
  • • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • • Modest clothing (especially for religious sites)
  • • Medications (bring prescriptions)
  • • Universal power adapter
  • • Small umbrella or rain jacket

Health & Safety

Health Precautions

  • • Tap water is generally safe in Baku
  • • Bottle water available everywhere
  • • No specific vaccinations required (check current requirements)
  • • Healthcare services available in Baku
  • • Travel insurance recommended
  • • Pharmacies sell common medications

Safety Tips

  • • Baku is generally safe for tourists
  • • Avoid displaying expensive items
  • • Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps
  • • Keep passport in secure location
  • • Inform someone of your plans
  • • Respect local customs and traditions

Important Numbers (Repeated)

Police: 102

Medical: 103

Fire: 101

Helpdesk: +994 12 497 27 27

Important Disclaimer

This is an independent airport guide created for traveler convenience. All information is provided as-is and may change without notice. For official, current, and legally binding information, always refer to the official airport website at airport.az. Always verify requirements with your airline and relevant government agencies before travel.