Azerbaijan Travel Safety

Precautions

Avoid walking alone after dark, do not carry large amounts of cash and do not display signs of affluence. Keep valuables and passports and other travel documents in a secure place.

Road safety

Highways and major city roads are well-maintained, but driving can still be dangerous due to poor driving standards and poorly maintained cars. Insufficient street lighting and signage make travel dangerous outside of Baku. The risk increases on certain roads that are shared with pedestrians and livestock. Authorities do not enforce traffic rules consistently. Pedestrians should exercise caution.

Identification

Police checks in public areas are common. Carry your passport at all times. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case of loss or seizure. If you are a resident, you must provide proof of residency status. You could be fined if you fail to provide proper identification on request from an official.

Public transportation

Buses are poorly maintained, often overcrowded and unsafe, particularly outside of Baku. Baku Metro is reasonably maintained and has basic safety equipment. If you must travel by train, store personal belongings in a safe place and do not leave your compartment unattended. Ensure the door is secured from the inside. Expect to see security cameras throughout the platforms and a police presence at each metro station, particularly at night.

Taxis

Only use officially marked taxis, which are metered, have seatbelts and are cheaper than unmarked taxis. Avoid shared taxis and unofficial taxis as there have been incidents passengers being assaulted.

Women's safety

Based on the crime situation of the Azerbaijan, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Women may be subject to unpleasant male attention, sexual harassment and verbal abuse. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of precaution during travel.

Scams

Thieves sometimes pose as police officers and demand that tourists pay on-the-spot fines. If faced with this situation, offer to follow the officer to the nearest police station to pay the fine.

Crime

Crime is relatively low. Most reported crimes involve burglary, assault or petty crime, such as pickpocketing. Be careful in areas that attract large crowds and areas that are very isolated or dimly lit.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. There have been incidents of drink spiking, resulting in victims being robbed.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Always be aware of your surroundings in public places. Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, however, keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk. Targets could include: government buildings, including schools, places of worship,airports and other transportation hubs and networks, public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners.

Dress and behaviour

Azerbaijan is a secular state, but some people closely adhere to Islamic practices and beliefs. Behave discreetly, and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset.

LGBT

While homosexuality is not illegal, LGBT people in Azerbaijan tend to keep a low profile as it is not acceptable to a large part of society. This is particularly true outside Baku and among the older generation. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, especially outside of Baku. Physical contact between men (holding hands, embracing) is usually a sign of friendship.

Illegal or restricted activities

It is strictly forbidden to take pictures of military installations and equipment. Trespassing on military sites can lead to arrest. Visitors have been detained and questioned when attempting to photograph military bases, equipment and installations as these are considered sensitive. Promoting religion and trying to convert others is not permitted.

Driving

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. There is zero tolerance for drinking and driving. Traffic stops are common. Always carry your licence, IDP, proof of insurance and vehicle registration. You must have the following documents in the car: vehicle registration document, passport and driver's licence, proof of insurance, first aid kit, proof that the car is road worthy (check-up card). If you own a car, you must get an annual road worthiness test done. You will be given a check-up card each year after the inspection.