Application Prospects of Georgia’s Experience in the Development of Tourism in Azerbaijan

Abstract

Tourism has emerged as a significant component of national economic growth and cultural diplomacy in the South Caucasus. Among the regional examples, Georgia stands out for its strategic and sustainable development of the tourism sector. This paper examines the key factors behind Georgia’s success and explores how Azerbaijan can adapt and apply similar approaches to enhance its own tourism industry. Through comparative analysis, the study highlights Georgia’s effective infrastructure investment, inclusive policy frameworks, dynamic marketing campaigns, and strong public-private partnerships. Azerbaijan, while possessing rich cultural and natural resources, faces challenges such as infrastructure gaps, policy discontinuity, and limited international visibility. The article proposes targeted solutions including regional development strategies, flexible pricing models, support for local entrepreneurs, and joint Caucasus tourism routes. The research underscores the importance of adapting Georgia’s experience to Azerbaijan’s unique context, with a focus on long-term planning and stakeholder engagement. By learning from Georgia’s tourism trajectory, Azerbaijan has the potential to become a leading regional tourism hub, diversify its economy, and strengthen its global cultural presence.