An international photography exhibition by world-renowned photojournalist Reza Deghati, known globally as REZA, is offering travellers a powerful visual introduction to Azerbaijan at Heydar Aliyev International Airport.
Titled ‘The Rising Light’, the exhibition is on display from 23 January to 27 March in Terminal 1’s international zone, transforming one of the region’s busiest travel hubs into a cultural space that tells Azerbaijan’s story through images of its people, heritage and modern life.
The project is supported by Azerbaijan Airlines, Heydar Aliyev International Airport and Boeing, highlighting a shared effort to integrate culture into the global travel experience.
‘A dream that became reality’
Speaking exclusively to AnewZ, REZA said the choice of an airport as an exhibition space carries deep personal meaning.
“I’m a traveller. I’ve been travelling for 45 years all over the world, spending a lot of time in airports. One of my dreams was always to ask why there is no cultural centre, no exhibition space in airports,” he said.
“Finally, thanks to Azerbaijan Airlines, Boeing and Heydar Aliyev International Airport, they all came together and let my dream become a reality.”
Choosing Baku’s main airport is symbolic. As a gateway welcoming tens of thousands of international passengers every day, the exhibition offers many visitors their first encounter with Azerbaijan — not through brochures or slogans, but through human stories captured on camera.
A visual portrait of Azerbaijan
Through 44 photographic works, ‘The Rising Light’ presents Azerbaijan as a country where ancient heritage and contemporary life coexist. A dedicated section focuses on the country’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Walled City of Baku and the Shirvanshahs’ Palace, the Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape and the Sheki Khan’s Palace.
Other images highlight everyday life, resilience and cultural diversity, offering what organisers describe as a layered and accessible portrait for a global audience.
A long connection with Azerbaijan
REZA is internationally recognised for documenting human stories in conflict zones and regions undergoing change. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has worked in more than 100 countries.
In Azerbaijan, his work holds particular significance. He has documented key moments of the country’s recent history, including refugee experiences and the First and Second Karabakh Wars.
For his contribution to peacebuilding and cultural dialogue, REZA was awarded the Order of Dostlug by Ilham Aliyev.
Culture at the heart of travel
Organisers say the exhibition reflects a broader vision of airports as spaces not only for transit, but for cultural exchange.
By placing ‘The Rising Light’ in the international departure zone, the project invites travellers from around the world to engage with Azerbaijan’s identity, not just as a destination, but as a society shaped by history, resilience and creativity.
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