Inflow of tourists to Azerbaijan from Arab states to rise in 2012
The inflow of tourists to Azerbaijan from Arab countries is expected to increase in 2012 due to the opening of direct flights with Doha, Qatar, Azerbaijani Tourism Association’s head told the Baku-based Trend news agency Monday.
"Opening this route by Qatar Airways creates additional opportunities not only for Azerbaijani tourists but also for the inflow of tourists to Azerbaijan, especially from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and other Arab countries," Nahid Bahirov said.
He said further that in 2011, the number of foreign tourists in Azerbaijan increased by more than 10 percent. In 2012, the figure is to increase by a further 20-30 percent.
"Naturally, the Eurovision song contest to be held in Baku in May will play its role [in boosting the inflow of tourists]."
Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Vagif Aliyev said earlier that the ministry aims to bring the number of tourists coming to the country to 5 million per year. He said it will be possible to achieve this goal until 2015.
About 2 million tourists arrive in Azerbaijan every year, Aliyev added.
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