With the steady increase in tourism to Azerbaijan over the past few years, the hospitality sector – especially in Baku and other popular destinations – has experienced a parallel rise in both demand and controversy.
One of the growing concerns is the practice of charging different prices to locals and foreign tourists in some restaurants and cafés.
According to visitors’ accounts, this can take the form of hidden costs or “deposit systems”, where foreigners are asked to pay higher minimum amounts or service fees not listed on the menu.
In some establishments, deposits are required simply to reserve a table – and the amount varies depending on whether the customer is local or visiting from abroad.
Tourism expert Jeyhun Ashurov describes this practice as unethical and damaging to Azerbaijan’s image as a fair and welcoming destination.
“Some restaurants use a deposit system to ensure a guaranteed income, particularly given high rent costs in central Baku. However, applying different rules or deposit amounts for locals and tourists is unacceptable. Prices must be the same for everyone,” Ashurov told Bizim.Media.
He noted that while restaurants have the right to set internal policies, dual pricing undermines consumer trust and can discourage repeat visits from both foreign and domestic clients.
Tourism specialists are urging authorities and the hospitality sector to strengthen oversight and transparency, emphasizing that short-term profits from price discrimination can harm Azerbaijan’s long-term reputation as a modern, tourist-friendly destination.
