/By AzerNews/

By Nigar Orujova

Azerbaijan, land of mesmerizing nature and captivating history, has recently turned into a favorite destination for tourists and many are eager to visit this unique country bringing together East and West.

The government is now working hard to simplify life for tourists by introducing new visa opportunities, which will encourage many to visit Azerbaijan that is still largely undiscovered by international travelers.

Visas centers for arriving passengers will start working in all international airports of Azerbaijan from February 1, 2016, the national airline AZAL reported.

The citizens of the Gulf States including Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, as well as Japan, China, South Korea, Malaysia and Singapore will be able to get 30-day visa for a single stay in the country.

This will be exciting news for all sport fans as the country will host the European Gran Prix Formula 1 this summer and the fourth Islamic Solidarity Games in 2017.

Earlier, Azerbaijan simplified visa regime with the European Union.

Moreover, time to obtain electronic visas is expected to be reduced twice for tourists coming in Azerbaijan. This offer has already been submitted to the Parliament.

Currently, appeal to obtain electronic visas by travel agencies are considered by the appropriate executive authority within 10 days. Under the amendments to the Migration Code, the time limit will be reduced to five working days.

The amendment aims to improve the procedures for entry of tourists into the country.

Tourists coming to Azerbaijan through travel agencies can obtain electronic visa.

At present, documents required in Azerbaijani embassies for getting a visa are as follows: 1 application form, 2 color photos (3x4 cm on a white background), passport or ID document, an invitation, tourist voucher, or other information confirming the purpose of visit, and a receipt confirming the payment of the state duty.

Moreover, Azerbaijan plans to continue simplifying its visa procedures. While earlier, all tourists despite the budget needed to book a hotel room in order to get a visa to Azerbaijan, soon will be able to stay in cottages or private apartments as well.

Currently, the country can accommodate over 35,000 tourists in its 530 hotels, which include a series of luxury hotels – Jumeirah, Excelsior, Hilton, Four Seasons, Fairmont, JW Marriott, Kempinski – as well as many budget hotels for cost-conscious travelers. The country also plans to operate world famous 2-3 stars hotels.

Prices for accommodation in the country start from $15 and increase depending on the hotel class and amenities provided.