Baku, Azerbaijan – Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) has unveiled an ambitious expansion of its flight network with the relaunch of its Baku–Tehran service and the introduction of a brand-new Baku–Tabriz route, both scheduled to begin in September 2025. These moves are set to dramatically strengthen tourism and business ties between Azerbaijan and Iran, while also reinforcing the Caspian region as a hub for cultural and economic exchange.
From September 1, 2025, AZAL will resume direct flights between Baku and Tehran, operating four times a week on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Just two days later, on September 3, 2025, the airline will launch Baku–Tabriz flights, which will run on Wednesdays and Sundays.
This expansion reflects AZAL’s strategy to expand regional connectivity and offer travelers easier access to two of Iran’s most historically significant and culturally rich cities.
Baku–Tehran Flights: Connecting Two Capitals
The Baku–Tehran route has long been a cornerstone of regional air travel, and its return marks a renewed opportunity for tourists, students, and business leaders.
Tehran, Iran’s capital, offers a wealth of attractions that cater to global travelers. Must-see destinations include the UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace, the National Museum of Iran, and the city’s vibrant bazaars. Beyond the capital, travelers can access world-famous destinations such as Isfahan, with its magnificent bridges and mosques, and Shiraz, the cultural city of gardens and poets.
With four weekly flights, Azerbaijan Airlines makes it easier for passengers to move between the two capitals, supporting not only tourism but also business, trade, and cultural diplomacy. For Iranian travelers, Baku’s UNESCO-listed Old City, modern Flame Towers, and Caspian Sea coastline are attractive draws.
New Baku–Tabriz Route: Gateway to Northwestern Iran
Perhaps the most exciting development is the new Baku–Tabriz route, which officially begins on September 3, 2025. This will be the first direct link connecting Azerbaijan’s capital to Tabriz, a major city in Iran’s East Azerbaijan Province.
Tabriz is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Historic Bazaar Complex, one of the largest covered markets in the world, along with architectural gems like the Blue Mosque and cultural landmarks such as the Azerbaijan Museum. The city also serves as a gateway to Lake Urmia and the Alborz Mountains, making it an ideal base for both heritage enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
For Azerbaijani travelers, the route provides direct access to a city with centuries of shared cultural and linguistic heritage. For Iranians, the flights make it easier to explore Baku’s mix of modernity and tradition, offering two-way tourism benefits.
Strengthening Economic and Cultural Ties
The new flight routes reflect a broader commitment to enhancing regional cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran. Easier travel will foster stronger partnerships in tourism, education, healthcare, and trade. With both countries investing in cultural diplomacy and heritage preservation, these flights offer a convenient pathway for travelers eager to experience the traditions, cuisines, and landmarks that define each nation.
According to Azerbaijan’s State Tourism Agency, international arrivals to Azerbaijan are projected to rise significantly in 2025, and Iran is expected to be a leading contributor to this growth. Similarly, Iran’s government has been working to attract more international tourists to cities like Tabriz, Shiraz, and Mashhad as part of its tourism diversification strategy.
Local businesses—from hotels and restaurants to guides and artisans—are poised to benefit from the increase in travelers. Tour operators in both nations are already designing multi-city itineraries, combining the highlights of Baku with Iran’s cultural treasures.
A Gateway to Multi-City Travel Experiences
The synchronized launch of these routes allows for multi-destination journeys across the Caspian and Middle East. Travelers can now:
- Start in Baku, exploring the Maiden Tower and the Heydar Aliyev Center,
- Fly to Tehran for an immersion in Persian heritage,
- And continue on to Tabriz to experience the energy of its bazaars and the serenity of Lake Urmia.
Such itineraries will appeal to tourists seeking cultural immersion, architectural marvels, and natural beauty, making Azerbaijan and Iran a stronger collective destination in global tourism.
Conclusion: A Win for Regional Tourism
The return of Baku–Tehran flights and the launch of Baku–Tabriz flights mark a significant milestone for Azerbaijan Airlines and for cross-border travel in the Caspian region. By enhancing connectivity, these flights open new doors for cultural exchange, boost bilateral tourism, and support economic growth on both sides of the border.
With rich histories, breathtaking landscapes, and centuries of shared culture, Azerbaijan and Iran now stand more connected than ever, offering travelers an opportunity to explore the best of two nations within a single journey.
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