Azerbaijan Enhances Absheron Circular Railway: More Trains, Better Access for Tourists

Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY) is enhancing its Absheron Circular Railway to cater to the growing demand for commuter services while simultaneously boosting tourism to key destinations around Baku and the surrounding areas. Starting from September 15, 2025, the new revised timetable will significantly improve train services, offering passengers more convenience and increased travel options, which will not only ease daily commuting but also facilitate access to some of Azerbaijan’s most important tourism spots.

This upgrade to the Absheron Circular Railway is a part of a larger strategy to modernize the country’s public transport system. The goal is to enhance urban mobility and promote tourism by improving connectivity between Baku and other parts of Azerbaijan. With the increase in services, ADY is positioning the railway as a vital link for residents and visitors, helping to bolster Azerbaijan’s position as a growing tourism hub.

Expanded Train Services to Meet Increased Demand

Under the new timetable, the Absheron Circular Railway will see a substantial rise in the number of daily train trips, particularly during weekdays. The total weekday trips will increase from 92 to 104, offering greater flexibility and convenience for those traveling between Baku, Khirdalan, Pirshagi, and Sumgayit. Specifically, the number of trips between Baku and Khirdalan will rise from 36 to 40, while the Baku–Pirshagi–Sumgayit–Baku route will see an increase from 56 to 64. This expanded schedule will make it easier for both locals and tourists to travel between these urban centers and surrounding regions.

Additionally, weekend services will be enhanced to cater to increased tourism activity, with trips between Baku–Khirdalan and Khirdalan–Baku growing from 16 to 22. Similarly, 34 trips will run on the Baku–Pirshagi–Sumgayit–Baku line, making weekends more accessible for both business and leisure travelers. This expansion is expected to increase passenger transportation by 10%, helping to ease congestion and providing greater comfort for commuters.

The enhanced Absheron Circular Railway services will play a pivotal role in facilitating both local and international tourism by providing efficient and reliable transport options. Visitors will now have an easier time exploring key tourist destinations located within easy reach of Baku. This is particularly important as Azerbaijan continues to position itself as an accessible and attractive destination for international travelers.

Tourism Opportunities: Enhanced Access to Key Attractions

One of the key benefits of the upgraded Absheron Circular Railway is its ability to improve access to several tourism hotspots that are popular with both domestic and international tourists. For example, Khirdalan, just outside Baku, offers an opportunity to explore Azerbaijan’s rich cultural history and natural beauty, and with the expanded train schedule, more visitors can now easily access this area. Similarly, Pirshagi, located along the Caspian Sea, is known for its peaceful landscapes and tranquil environment, making it a popular destination for relaxation.

Sumgayit, another important stop on the expanded route, will also see increased accessibility. The city is a gateway to Gobustan National Park, famous for its mud volcanoes and petroglyphs, both of which are significant archaeological sites. With more frequent train services, it is expected that more visitors will venture out to experience these unique natural attractions.

These enhancements will not only facilitate easier movement between Baku and surrounding cities but also encourage longer stays and more in-depth exploration of Azerbaijan’s rich history, culture, and natural heritage. The expanded timetable will help reduce travel time and make it easier for tourists to plan their trips, ultimately contributing to the growth of tourism in the region.

Infrastructure Improvements Supporting Sustainable Tourism

As part of the larger State Program on Improving Transport Infrastructure in Baku and Surrounding Areas (2025–2030), ADY is also working on several infrastructure improvements that will further boost the tourism experience. For example, the construction of a new road underpass beneath the Khirdalan–Guzdek railway section will enhance the connection between Khirdalan and key highways, such as the M-1 Baku–Quba highway and the M-4 Baku–Shamakhi–Yevlakh highway. This new development will provide smoother access to tourist destinations throughout the region.

During the construction phase, some of the existing railway routes, including the Khirdalan–Sumgayit–Khirdalan line, will be temporarily suspended. However, rerouting will be in place via Baku–Bilajari–Khirdalan–Baku, ensuring that travel disruptions are minimal. The new underpass, once completed, will improve traffic flow and make Khirdalan and the surrounding areas even more accessible to tourists and residents alike.

Additionally, ADY has made significant repairs to the Bagirov Bridge area on the Baku–Keshla section. The work included waterproofing, the installation of drainage systems, asphalt resurfacing, and the addition of curbs to enhance safety and durability. These efforts ensure that the infrastructure remains robust, supporting uninterrupted train operations and the safe, comfortable travel of passengers.

A Growing Tourism Landscape in Azerbaijan

The expanded services on the Absheron Circular Railway are part of Azerbaijan’s broader efforts to make the country more accessible to tourists while simultaneously improving the daily commuting experience for locals. By enhancing connectivity between Baku and surrounding cities, the initiative will help boost tourism and increase the number of visitors exploring the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of the region.

With more frequent trains, better infrastructure, and a growing focus on sustainable transport, Azerbaijan is solidifying its position as a key tourist destination in the region. These updates will contribute to the long-term growth of Azerbaijan’s tourism sector, attracting more international travelers and making it easier for tourists to explore the country’s hidden gems. ADY’s ongoing commitment to modernizing and expanding its services will ensure that Azerbaijan continues to be a vibrant, accessible, and dynamic travel destination for years to come.

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