{
  "id": 14503332,
  "title": "How Azerbaijan is building its next chapter in tourism",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/14/how-azerbaijan-is-building-its-next-chapter-in-tourism",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-14T17:45:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Euronews",
    "slug": "euronews",
    "url": "https://www.euronews.com/2026/10/14/how-azerbaijan-is-building-its-next-chapter-in-tourism"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Azerbaijan is rapidly developing its tourism sector, aiming to showcase its unique blend of European and Asian influences. Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, believes the country often flies under the radar in favor of more well-known destinations in the South Caucasus. Despite this, Sengstschmid points to numerous cultural and historical attractions that set Azerbaijan apart.\n\nBaku, the capital city, recently hosted a Formula 1 weekend drawing over 17,000 international visitors, as well as the Azerbaijan Investment Forum, highlighting its growing reputation as a premier destination for large events. The city's rich history is evident in its European roots, with remnants of German heritage villages and a diverse mix of religious landmarks, including a mosque, church, and synagogue.\n\nBeyond the capital, Azerbaijan boasts a wealth of UNESCO-listed sites, ancient heritage villages, and stunning natural landscapes along the Silk Road. The country's diverse climate zones range from desert landscapes to mountain peaks, making it an ideal destination for winter tourism. Azerbaijan Airlines has recently expanded its European routes, including a new weekly flight between Brussels and Baku, further improving connectivity for travelers.\n\nThe government's long-term plan, set to run until 2030, focuses on boosting tourism through incentives for airlines, new routes, and support for local entrepreneurs. This strategy aims to increase visitor numbers, currently at just under three million, and significantly boost Azerbaijan's economy. With visitor experiences increasingly centered around immersive cultural interactions, Azerbaijan is positioning itself as a destination where visitors can truly connect with the local way of life.",
  "summary": "Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, tells the Travel and Tourism Summit how direct flights, regional investment and a 2030 plan are shaping the country’s future.",
  "key_points": [
    "Azerbaijan aims to boost tourism by showcasing unique European-Asian fusion.",
    "Baku hosted Formula 1 weekend with 17,000 international visitors.",
    "Government's 2030 plan focuses on increasing visitor numbers to three million."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}