Current Time in Baku
Azerbaijan's culture of time
Azerbaijan's culture of time
Relatively strict on time in urban areas
In urban areas, centered around the capital Baku, punctuality is emphasized in business and public situations, and it is common to adhere to the set time for meetings and work starts. On the other hand, in rural areas, there is still a flexible culture in which some delays are tolerated.
Relaxed time for meals and socializing
It is common to have dinner around 7:00-9:00 p.m., and it is important to have time to enjoy leisurely conversations with family and close friends. Meals are not just nutritional supplements, but are important social occasions.
Sense of time influenced by religion and tradition
Although influenced by Islamic culture, it is a secular country, and religious events and holidays can affect the rhythm of life. However, strong time constraints in line with prayer times are not common.
Azerbaijani values regarding time
Sociability is directly linked to flexibility in time
Because the culture values relationships with people, it is common to go over the scheduled time if the conversation is lively. There is a tendency to prioritize "relationships over time".
There is a sense of responsibility to be punctual at work
In business situations, people are strict about time, and being late or missing deadlines will lower your evaluation. Time management is especially important in foreign companies and international relations.
Emphasis on spending time with family
There is a strong culture of prioritizing family events and gatherings over work, and time with family is valued on weekends and holidays. Therefore, work schedules are often coordinated with family events.
Things foreigners should know about time when traveling or relocating to Azerbaijan
Public transport is subject to some delays
Buses and trains often follow timetables, but they can be delayed due to road conditions, so it is advisable to plan your travel schedule with plenty of time.
Commercial facilities have stable business hours
Stores and shopping malls in urban areas are open from 10:00 to 22:00, and are open regardless of the day of the week. However, business hours may be shortened in rural areas.
Official procedures require time and waiting in line
At government offices and medical institutions, advance reservations may be required, and even if you arrive before the end of business hours, you may not be accepted, so it is important to allow yourself plenty of time.
Fun facts about time in Azerbaijan
UTC+4 is used as standard time
Azerbaijan uses UTC+4 all year round, and has maintained the same time throughout the year since abolishing daylight saving time in 2016.
Novruz (the vernal equinox) has a unique sense of time
At Novruz, an important Azerbaijani festival, customs and festivals are held based on the vernal equinox, and time itself is considered to be linked to natural changes.
"Go now" does not necessarily mean right away
The word "indi" used by Azerbaijanis can actually mean a few minutes to a few tens of minutes later, and there is a "cultural sense of time" that includes a slight delay.