Avaza National Tourist Zone, also known as Avaza-MSZ, is a designated National Tourist Zone in Turkmenistan situated along the eastern shoreline of the Caspian Sea, approximately 12 kilometers west of the city of Turkmenbashi. The introduction of the first three hotels took place on June 15, 2009.
The primary objective of this initiative was to secure over $1 billion in funding from Turkmenistan itself and $4 billion from foreign investors. The current area allocated for Avaza is 1,700 hectares. A list comprising 90 plots of land, prioritizing their development, has been approved. Key projects include the construction of a new airport complex, a connecting highway between Avaza and the airport, a high-capacity gas turbine power plant, water treatment and purification facilities, and a comprehensive water supply system. Additionally, there are plans to modernize the water supply and sewage pumping station in the city of Turkmenbashi. In essence, meticulous consideration has been given to all aspects of modern engineering and communication infrastructure to facilitate long-term growth. The upcoming year anticipates the arrival of the first group of visitors to Avaza National Tourist Zone, with the opening of six top-tier hotels along the captivating shores of the Caspian Sea.
Avaza history
Avaza is a charming town situated along the northeastern coastline of the Caspian Sea, approximately 20 kilometers away from the city of Turkmenbashi.
Due to its proximity to the open sea, Avaza experiences a considerable number of windy days. The prevailing wind direction is usually from the northwest, a local phenomenon referred to as “Jilawaz” by the residents. On rainy days, the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore creates an ambiance that is hard to resist. The term “Jilawaz” may be associated with the rhythmic sound of the sea. In traditional Turkmen ships, the galley, where food is prepared, was typically located in the cabin below the hatch.
On sailing vessels of the past, a person responsible for cooking was known as a “yashkichi”, a term specifically used to refer to the cook aboard a sailboat. The tasks related to household chores were usually carried out by the younger members of the crew or individuals skilled in such duties.