Azerbaijan's International Dialing Code
To call Azerbaijan from abroad, dial the international access prefix (e.g., 011 from the U.S., 00 from Europe), then +994, followed by the local number without the leading zero.
Format: +994 + [area/mobile code] + [subscriber number]
Example: +994 12 123 45 67
Calling Azerbaijani Landlines
Most landlines begin with area codes. Drop the leading zero when dialing from abroad.
| City / Region | Area Code | International Format |
|---|---|---|
| Baku | 12 | +994 12 XXX XX XX |
| Ganja | 22 | +994 22 XXX XX XX |
| Sumgait | 18 | +994 18 XXX XX XX |
| Mingachevir | 27 | +994 27 XXX XX XX |
| Lankaran | 25 | +994 25 XXX XX XX |
Within Azerbaijan, dial 0 + area code (e.g., 012 123 45 67).
Calling Azerbaijani Mobiles
Mobile numbers follow the pattern 0XX XXX XX XX, where XX identifies the carrier. Remove the leading zero when calling internationally.
| Network | Common Prefixes | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Azercell | 050, 051, 010 | +994 50 123 45 67 |
| Bakcell | 055, 099 | +994 55 123 45 67 |
| Nar Mobile | 070, 077 | +994 70 123 45 67 |
Tip: Save numbers in your contacts with +994 so roaming phones dial correctly.
Buying a SIM or eSIM in Azerbaijan
| Provider | Where to Buy | Tourist Bundles | ID Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Azercell | Baku Airport, Azercell Service Centers, malls | 5–30 GB packages, voice + mobile money | Passport |
| Bakcell | Baku Airport, Bakcell shops, partner kiosks | Combo bundles with data + local minutes | Passport |
| Nar Mobile | Selected electronics stores | 4G packages with data | Passport |
- Registration is mandatory—bring your physical passport.
- eSIMs are available for select phones at major carrier stores.
- Mobile payment services can be activated on tourist SIMs for cashless payments.
Network Coverage & Internet
- 4G/LTE: Baku, major cities, and tourist areas.
- 3G: Most regions and highways.
- 2G: Remote areas—expect slower data in rural zones.
- Wi-Fi: Hotels, cafes, and coworking hubs offer reliable connections, but mobile data is more consistent on road trips.
Recommended setup for travelers:
- Primary line: local SIM for data + local calls.
- Backup: eSIM or roaming line for banking 2FA.
- Portable router if traveling with a group.
Emergency Numbers & Helpful Contacts
| Service | Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose police / emergency | 102 | Works nationwide; free from any phone. |
| Fire brigade | 101 | Baku Fire & Rescue; relays to regional units. |
| Medical ambulance | 103 | Government emergency medical service. |
| Gas emergency | 104 | 24/7 helpline for gas-related emergencies. |
| Tourist info | +994 12 498 88 88 | Azerbaijan Tourism Board visitor line. |
Dial these numbers directly inside Azerbaijan—no need to prefix +994.
Other International Codes for Azerbaijan
| Code Type | Value |
|---|---|
| ISO Alpha-2 | AZ |
| ISO Alpha-3 | AZE |
| Numeric Code | 031 |
| Internet TLD | .az |
| Currency | AZN (Azerbaijani manat) |
| ICAO Country Prefix | UBB |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need +994 when calling within Azerbaijan?
No. Dial the number starting with 0 (e.g., 050 XXX XX XX) for domestic calls.
Can I keep my foreign WhatsApp number?
Yes. Install a local SIM for data/voice but keep WhatsApp tied to your home number for continuity.
Is roaming expensive?
International roaming works but is costly; buying a local SIM or eSIM is far cheaper.
Are there phone booths?
Public booths are rare. Use hotel phones, mobile networks, or VoIP apps.
Can I top up with cash?
Yes. Airtime scratch cards and mobile payment agents are available—look for carrier-branded kiosks.
Do emergency numbers accept English?
Yes. Operators typically speak Azerbaijani, English, and often Russian.
Save these codes before you fly and you'll stay seamlessly connected across Baku, Ganja, Sheki, and other destinations in Azerbaijan.
