Golf in Azerbaijan

Golf is a massive global industry, played by millions of affluent (and not only) people in 208 countries. According to HSBC's "Golf Development Concept for 2020," the trends shaping the future of golf align with the trends shaping the future of our planet.

Currently, there are 33,000 golf courses worldwide, and this number continues to grow. Golf courses have become a crucial part of the tourism and hospitality industry in many countries. Golf-related tournaments and events generate over $2 billion annually, while the golf tourism market exceeds $1 billion.

Beyond the economic arguments, golf is undeniably one of the world's most popular sports. Estimating the exact number of enthusiasts is nearly impossible, but official statistics often cite around 450 million people.

Golf in Azerbaijan

Golf has gained popularity in Azerbaijan relatively recently. In 2012, the Golf Federation was established to ensure that Azerbaijan, as a nation, understands, respects, learns, and embraces the game.

The National Azerbaijan Golf Club, located in Guba within the magnificent Quba Palace Hotel complex, is a member of IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators). This unique sports complex is the only one of its kind in the South Caucasus. One of its key advantages is that its staff consists entirely of local professionals from the Guba, Gusar, and Khachmaz regions.

The Golf Course

The complex spans 120 hectares, with 92 hectares dedicated to the golf course itself and 75 hectares for its facilities. The club is not only impressive in size but also in the beauty of its landscape. Guba is one of Azerbaijan’s most scenic regions, surrounded by majestic mountains and dense forests. Additionally, three artificial lakes have been created to serve as water hazards.

The club’s greatest asset is its 18-hole golf course, covering 6,410 meters, designed in the "Mixed Stroke Play" format. It features greens that meet US Golf Association standards, spacious practice areas, and other premium facilities. The course and its surroundings were designed by John Hunt and an international team of landscape architects.

Golf Tournaments

The world-class facilities allow for hosting high-level international tournaments. In 2014, the Golf Federation organized two major tournaments. The first was a one-day tournament dedicated to the memory of Heydar Aliyev, featuring 72 amateur players from 16 countries. Later that year, Azerbaijan hosted the European Challenge Tour, welcoming 156 professional golfers from Canada, India, France, Spain, Switzerland, and other European nations, as well as the USA and South Korea. Players from Turkey, Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Estonia were also invited. Up to a thousand spectators attended daily, and the event was broadcast on Europeantour.com, reaching an audience of over 150 million viewers.

The National Azerbaijan Golf Club

Today, the National Golf Club plays a significant role in Azerbaijan’s tourism sector. Quba Palace Hotel is widely regarded as one of the most popular resorts in the region, attracting golf enthusiasts from various countries, with its visitor base expanding annually. Anyone can experience the sport firsthand—trained professionals are available to teach the basics. Golf equipment and attire are also provided, and players can relax between training sessions at a nearby restaurant.

Azerbaijanis have a deep appreciation for both comfort and the beauty of nature, making Guba the perfect location for the National Golf Club. Its proximity to a five-star hotel was a deliberate choice, and international visitors frequently highlight their love for the combination of luxurious accommodation and breathtaking natural surroundings.