Local culture in Azerbaijan

Local culture in Azerbaijan reflects strong influences from Middle Eastern, Russian and Turkish traditions, creating a distinctive cultural identity. Most of the population is Azerbaijani, also known as Azeri (representing about 95 percent of the total population), with minority groups including Lezgins, Russians, Talysh, Avars, and Turks. These cultures have all contributed to Azerbaijan’s rich history and its unique traditions, language and cuisine.

You may take some time to adjust to the local culture in Azerbaijan, but any feelings of discomfort should pass as you become more accustomed to life here.

Language barrier in Azerbaijan

The language barrier in Azerbaijan is likely to be one of the biggest obstacles you’ll face. Azerbaijani (also known as Azeri) is the official language. As with Azeri culture, it is closely related to Turkish. Many residents also speak Russian as a second language, and Turkish is also spoken.

While English is increasingly used in business circles, particularly in the energy sector, the majority of the population can’t speak or understand it. A 2023 report ranked Azerbaijan 86th among 116 countries in English proficiency, with the level classified as ‘low’.

In general, when dealing with the local population, communication will likely be challenging if you’re unable to speak one of the local languages. Azerbaijani can be a complex language to learn, but attempting at least a few key phrases will go a long way to interacting positively with the local population. You can also negotiate the language barrier with the help of a friend or colleague who speaks Azeri and, when house hunting, hire a real estate agent who has experience working with expats.

Business Culture in Azerbaijan 
Renting Accommodation in Azerbaijan

Food and drink in Azerbaijan

Food and drink in Azerbaijan feature flavours largely influenced by Turkish, Russian and Asian cuisines. Meat and rice are popular, and spices are commonly used to create rich and intense flavours. Azerbaijani cuisine is hearty, and portions are generous. The country’s favourable climate also means that fresh produce is readily available throughout most of the year.

A popular dish in Azerbaijan is plov, a rice dish flavoured with saffron and enriched with meat or vegetable stuffing. Azerbaijan boasts over 40 different plov recipes, making it a staple in the national cuisine. Kebabs and shashlik (skewered meat) are also popular dishes, typically made with lamb, beef, chicken, or sturgeon fish served with a tart pomegranate sauce called narsharab.

Black tea flavoured with spices is a traditional drink offered as a welcome before a meal and usually served afterwards too. Although most of the population is Muslim, alcohol is widely available and readily consumed in Azerbaijan.

Meeting and greeting in Azerbaijan

There are specific customs when it comes to meeting and greeting in Azerbaijan. Men typically greet each other with a handshake. Women will also greet each other with a handshake, or if they’re very familiar with each other, a kiss on the cheek. For expat men greeting a woman, it’s best to wait for her either to make initial contact or not. The usual greeting in Azerbaijan is ‘Salaam’, meaning ‘Hello’.

While Azerbaijanis are generally friendly and hospitable to newcomers, they are often misinterpreted as unfriendly, as they seldom smile at strangers. Smiling is usually reserved for relatives and close friends.

When arriving at an Azeri’s home, it’s customary to remove your shoes. The host may offer you slippers. It’s also polite to bring a gift, although you should avoid gifting alcohol unless you’re certain the family drinks. If giving flowers, bring an odd number, as even numbers are usually reserved for funerals.

Religion in Azerbaijan

Religion in Azerbaijan has a unique character; while the majority of the population is classified as Muslim (approximately 96 percent), very few Azeris would describe themselves as religious. Azerbaijan is considered one of the most secular states in the Muslim world, and religion is viewed as a very private matter. The country observes freedom of religion, and besides Muslims, there are Christian, Orthodox and Jewish minorities.

Respect for religion and religious sites is important when visiting. This includes avoiding taking photos of mosques and churches unless you have explicitly asked permission.

Women in Azerbaijan

Women in Azerbaijan live in a society that officially promotes gender equality but maintains many traditional gender roles. Family is at the centre of Azerbaijani society; men are viewed as the main breadwinners and women traditionally look after the home and children. In the 2024 Global Gender Gap Index, Azerbaijan ranks 103rd out of 146 countries, with particular challenges in women’s political empowerment.

Some women do achieve success in high-level positions within both the political and corporate arenas, with recent legal reforms improving employment opportunities. Men are also highly chivalrous towards women, and still give up their seats on buses and open doors for them.

Women and men living in Azerbaijan’s capital city dress in modern Western-style clothing, although business attire tends to be formal, particularly for women. Outside of Baku, dressing conservatively is generally more acceptable.

LGBTQ+ in Azerbaijan

LGBTQ+ in Azerbaijan face a legal and social environment that differs significantly from many Western countries. Same-sex relationships were decriminalised in 2000, but there are no laws protecting against discrimination, and same-sex marriages or civil unions aren’t recognised. As a predominantly Muslim and traditional society, public attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people remain largely conservative.

If you identify as LGBTQ+, it’s advisable to be discreet about your sexual orientation in public spaces. Baku, the capital, tends to be more tolerant than rural areas, but public displays of affection between same-sex couples should be avoided throughout the country. LGBTQ+-friendly venues may be subject to random raids, and activists have reported cases of harassment and detention.

Transport in Azerbaijan

Transport in Azerbaijan offers several options, particularly in Baku, where you’ll find a clean, modern metro system, extensive bus networks, and affordable taxis. The Baku Metro provides efficient travel through the capital, while ride-sharing apps like Bolt operate throughout the city. Outside Baku, many expats find having a private vehicle or driver essential for getting around the country.

Public transport costs are remarkably low compared to Western countries, making daily commuting budget-friendly. Many expats living in Baku choose to hire private drivers, which is an affordable option compared to Western standards. When venturing beyond the capital to explore tourist destinations like Gobustan National Reserve or other regions, having your own transport arrangement becomes particularly valuable.

Telecommunications in Azerbaijan

Telecommunications in Azerbaijan have seen significant development, and nearly 90 percent of the population uses the internet. There are several mobile options for expats, with Azercell being the largest provider offering extensive coverage and premium services, while Bakcell focuses on more affordable packages.

When settling in Azerbaijan, you’ll find getting connected relatively straightforward, with both prepaid SIM cards and eSIM options widely available. Internet speeds in urban areas are generally reliable, although connectivity can occasionally be affected in rural regions. The government’s ‘Online Azerbaijan’ project aims to further improve nationwide internet access.

Tips to overcome culture shock in Azerbaijan

• To overcome culture shock in Azerbaijan, learn at least a few key Azeri phrases. It’s a difficult language to learn, but it helps enormously when getting along with locals.
• Never insult the president, Ilham Aliyev, or the ruling Aliyev family, as this is an offence. It’s best to avoid discussions about politics altogether. This includes the sensitive issue of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and Azerbaijan’s relations with Armenia.
• It’s best to avoid discussing religion. Most people are Muslim, but religion is viewed as a very private matter.
• Don’t take it personally if Azeris do not smile at first. It doesn’t mean they are not welcoming; it’s just not customary to smile at strangers. Apart from this, Azeris are known for their hospitality, and if you’re in trouble, they will likely be happy to help.