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About Bakü
Baku, the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern architecture, located on the shores of the Caspian Sea. As of 2023, Baku has a population of approximately 2.3 million people, making it the cultural and economic heart of the country.
The climate of Baku is semi-arid, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, breezy winters. The city receives most of its rainfall during the spring and autumn months. The best time to visit Baku is from April to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city's many attractions.
Baku is served by Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), located about 25 kilometers northeast of the city center. The airport is a key hub in the Caucasus region, offering good connectivity to various international destinations, including direct flights from Saudi Arabia. Airlines such as Azerbaijan Airlines, Saudia, and flydubai operate regular flights to Baku from major Saudi cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
Baku’s cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors influenced by its position at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. Traditional dishes like Plov (a fragrant rice dish), Dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and Kebabs are staples of Azerbaijani cuisine. For dessert, visitors can enjoy Pakhlava, a sweet pastry made with layers of dough, nuts, and honey, which is particularly popular during festivals.
Baku is home to a variety of attractions that showcase its unique history and contemporary charm. The Old City (Icherisheher), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and ancient monuments, including the iconic Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs.
For those interested in modern architecture, the Flame Towers dominate the city’s skyline, symbolizing Baku's rapid modernization. The Heydar Aliyev Center, designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid, is another architectural marvel that hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
Outdoor activities in Baku include strolling along the Baku Boulevard, a scenic promenade that runs along the Caspian Sea, offering stunning views and a variety of entertainment options. The Gobustan National Park, located just outside the city, is home to ancient rock carvings and mud volcanoes, providing a fascinating day trip for history enthusiasts.
Saudi Arabian citizens visiting Azerbaijan need a visa, which can be obtained either through an e-visa or on arrival. The e-visa can be applied for online via the Azerbaijan E-Visa Portal, typically taking around 3 business days to process, with an option for expedited service. It is a single-entry visa valid for 30 days, and travelers must enter within 90 days of issuance. Applicants need a passport valid for at least six months, a completed application form, and a payment of approximately $20. Alternatively, a visa on arrival is available at select airports, such as Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku. This option also allows for a 30-day stay and requires a valid passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and a visa fee of around $25.
Transportation to Bakü City Center from Airport
Heydar Aliyev Intl. Airport
Located along the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan’s capital Baku is a rising star in the East gaining notoriety for its oil, gas, and caviar. Baku is a city that attracts the attention people migrating from Asia and other countries in the region, and businessmen from all around the world.
The city’s only airport is the Heydar Aliyev International Airport, named after the National Leader and third President of Azerbaijan. The airport serves 5 million passengers annually. You can get to the airport, which is located 25 km away, from the city center by car or a combination of the metro and airport buses.
Airport Buses
From the airport there are buses that provide transportation to Vurgun Park on 28 May Street, that run every 30 minutes. These buses take approximately 50 minutes and are very affordable. Bus line 116 takes off from the 1st floor of each terminal. Vurgun Park is the last stop on the bus line. From here the Gobustan National Park along the Caspian coastline is 15 minutes away on foot. The Old City is 2.5 km away. You can get there by taking bus lines 120 or 124 in about 25 minutes.
Metro
Baku’s metro network dates back to the 1960’s. Out of the two metro lines unfortunately neither connect directly to Heydar Aliyev International Airport. From the airport you can take bus line 116 to Koroglu Metro Station; this bus ride takes about 35 minutes. From the Koroglu Metro Station you can get to other central locations in the city like 28 May Street or the Old City. Azerbaijan’s largest stadium, Tefik Bahramov Stadium, is also located on this line.
Taxi
To get from the airport to the city center you can also take a taxi. Taxi stands are located at the terminal exit. Taxis from the airport to the city center take around 20 minutes and will cost between 15-20 Azerbaijani Manat. You can also book a luxury transfer service. Fares for luxury transfer services start from 65 Azerbaijani Manat.
RENTAL CARS
Renting a car to get from the airport to the city center and to get around within the city is a great idea. The city is frequented by a lot of businessmen who usually choose to rent a car. Traffic in the city is mild and fuel is cheap so it makes renting a car an even more attractive option. The airport features a rich variety of rental car options. There are many vehicles to choose from, from luxurious vehicles to standard ones. To get to the city center follow the airport road to the Boyuk Shor Highway. This highway will connect you to Heydar Aliyev Avenue, after the Ziya Bunyadov Avenue junction. Heydar Aliyev Avenue will connect you to the Old City and central Baku.
Airport Information
Although it is not very large Heydar Aliyev International Airport is an important junction, especially for passengers traveling between Europe and Asia. The airport offers passengers a variety of eating, drinking, and shopping venues.
The airport has 2 terminals, Terminal 1, which was completely renovated, and Terminal 2, which serves domestic flights. The airport contains world famous fast food chains like Burger King, McDonald’s, and KFC, as well as restaurants that offer delicious flavors unique to Azerbaijani cuisine. The international terminal has a large Duty Free shop as well as souvenir shops where you can buy items unique to Russian and Azeri culture. The airport features free wireless internet connection.
