Military tensions in the Middle East between the US/Israel and Iran have severely impacted tourism flows. Safety concerns, transport restrictions, and negative media image reduced interest in the region.
However, hostilities have ceased, and countries are reopening their airspace. Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) is resuming flights to Tel Aviv and Dubai. Tourism experts expect this to revitalize Azerbaijan's tourism sector.
Tourism expert Azer Huseynov: 'Resumption of flights will eliminate artificial price pressure, leading to more realistic and balanced pricing.'
Tourism expert Sureyya Akhundova: 'The Baku-Dubai-Baku route is restored, easing travel to other Asian countries via Dubai.'
Tourism expert Afsun Ahmadov: 'After flights resume, tourist arrivals to Azerbaijan could increase 2-3 times.'
Tourism expert Vusala Sultan-Ahmadi: 'Now is the perfect time for Dubai trips; flights will return to previous levels.'
Tourism expert Aziz Shiriyev: 'Peace directly contributes to tourism development. The resumption of flights from May will positively affect both inbound and outbound tourism.'