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Practical Info

General Information

The thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) will be held from 17 to 22 May 2026 in Baku, Azerbaijan, and is co-organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the Government of Azerbaijan. Held every two years and convened by UN-Habitat, the World Urban Forum is the premier global conference on urbanization. It brings together a wide range of participants from around the world to discuss major urban challenges facing the world today.

Since its first convening in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2002, the World Urban Forum has expanded both in size and remit. WUF has become the premier global conference on sustainable urban development and an appreciated platform for sharing best practices and innovation. You can check previous WUF locations and information here.

WUF13 venue

WUF13 will be held at the Baku Olympic Stations located at Heydar Aliyev, 323, Baku, Azerbaijan.

More information on the location can be found here.

Online Registration

The online registration for WUF13 will open soon here.

Do I have to individually register for the forum?

Yes. Application documents are available in English only and can be completed and submitted electronically.

Can I register more than one person with my registration account? 

No. Group registration can’t be done by using a person’s individual account. Each Email address serves as the unique identifier for the person who registers.

Can I update the details in my registration? 

Yes. Login into your account here to update the details in the WUF13 registration form.

Can I register for a minor for the forum?

Yes. Children under 18 years of age are welcome to attend WUF13. Please visit the Guidelines for access to and participation of minors during WUF13 for more information.  

Is registration free?

Yes.

In-person attendance

Early registration is advisable. An automatically generated confirmation email, including a QR Code and unique registration number, will be your ticket to access your photo badge on arrival at the WUF13 venue for the in-person event. You must bring your valid national identification document you have used at the point of online registration with you to receive your photo badge for WUF13.

How do I choose the appropriate registration form and partner types?

The World Urban Forum has one registration form which should be submitted. You can choose your partner type during the registration process.

How can l be accredited as media?

All media representatives must apply through the general registration portal and identify as members of the media. To support your media accreditation – and allow you permission to bring recording and broadcast equipment to the WUF13 venue – you must provide both national identification and identification as a media representative, with a valid national or international press association card or press pass you have used at the point of online registration. Media representatives will have access to the press room for filming and to sites on the grounds for stand-up. A media toolkit will be provided for accredited members of the press.

Please see the Media guidelines for more elaborate information further below.

Can l attend WUF13 virtually?

We will inform you in due course of the procedure to be accredited for virtual attendance.

Language(s) and Accessibility
What is the official working language of WUF13?

The working language of the World Urban Forum is English. Opening and closing sessions, dialogues, special sessions, roundtables and press conferences will feature interpretation in the six UN official languages (English, French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic and Chinese).

Sign Language

Organizers of partner-led events can book additional language services and sign language at their own cost.

Accessibility and wheelchair access

The WUF13 venue is fully wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs will be available at the registration area for participants for use during the Forum and on the premises.

Service dogs

The WUF13 venue welcomes service or guide dogs (must have certificate – please carry a copy). There are dog-relieving areas within the venue. Please ask a Volunteer for assistance if need be.
 

Programme
How can I find out about the WUF13 programme and when an event is scheduled?

Information about different events at WUF13 will be available in the WUF13 programme on this website in the first quarter of 2026. 

Urban Expo applications
What is the Urban Expo?

An international Urban Expo will run throughout the duration of WUF13 to showcase sustainable urban development projects, best practices, and innovative solutions to tackle the challenges of housing, transport, energy, and climate change, among others. The Expo will feature both small booths and large pavilions, which will also host unofficial events. Thousands of people are expected to pass through the doors of the Urban Expo as a popular destination during each WUF. WUF13 registration is compulsory to visit the Urban Expo.

More information will be available soon about the Urban Expo Guidelines on this website.

Who can exhibit?

Member States, local and regional authorities, civil society, academia, the United Nations, the private sector, and other intergovernmental organizations can host exhibition booths and pavilions at the Expo. Exhibitors can apply for space on a first-come, first-served basis. Exhibitors will be selected based on their applications. Selling items during the Urban Expo is prohibited. More information is available in the Urban Expo Guidelines, including details on pricing for exhibition spaces and booths, which will be available once the exhibition space booking form is open.

What are the deadlines for Urban Expo bookings?

The Urban Expo application form is expected to open until 31 January 2026. Please visit this website regularly for updates. A schedule for the applications, build-up, rollout, and dismantling will be available in the Urban Expo Guidelines.

How can I apply for the Urban Expo?

You can submit an expo application by selecting "Applications" from the menu in the GEMS personal dashboard. Your exhibition space application will be reviewed, and if accepted, confirmed upon payment.

What is the cost of space and pre-built booths at the Urban Expo?

Please consult the Urban Expo Guidelines for details on pricing for pre-built booths and space-only (for custom-designed pavilions) once posted on this website.

If I register as an exhibitor, do I need to register as a participant?

If you are registered as an exhibitor, you can participate in all sessions and events of WUF13. To be registered as an exhibitor means that you are registered for WUF13.

Do exhibitors need to be present at their booths/pavilions for the entire forum?

Yes, exhibitors must ensure that at least one staff member is always present at their booth/pavilion throughout the forum.

Will I have access to meetings if I am registered as an exhibitor?

All registered exhibitors can access meetings, which are open to all participants at WUF13.

I only want to visit the Urban Expo. Do I have to register?

Yes, if you wish to visit the Urban Expo, you still need to register and get a WUF13 badge.

Event Participation

The World Urban Forum brings together sustainable urbanization champions from around the world. Whether they are representatives of government or non-government and community organizations; private sector entrepreneurs, students, academics or foundation representatives, WUF’s participants constitute a broad array of constituents eager to explore the urban transformation agenda as it relates to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda. Participants can be younger than 18 years of age and are welcome to attend but must be accompanied by a parent or a legal guardian.

Is registration and participation at WUF13 free of charge?

Yes. The registration link is available on the WUF13 webpage. All participants are required to register to attend WUF13. Please note that access to WUF13 and the WUF13 venue will only be granted to those who have completed registration and obtained the official WUF13 photo badge.

What type of events can one find at WUF?

Events at WUF13 include assemblies, dialogues, roundtables, special sessions, partner-led events, besides others. Most of the events on the WUF13 programme are open to everyone. Selected events are by invitation only.

Will I need an invitation letter to participate in a WUF13 event?

No. You can register online on the WUF13 website and get your accreditation badge once you arrive at the venue in person with a copy of your registration confirmation letter and personal identification used during registration to participate in an event at WUF13.

Can I be denied access to the WUF13 venue?

Yes. In the interest of security and safety of all participants and the smooth running of the sessions, UN-Habitat reserves the right to deny and/or restrict access to the WUF13 venue, or to request participants to leave the premises, in line of the Code of Conduct to Prevent Harassment, including Sexual Harassment at UN System events

UN-Habitat will not be responsible for any expenses incurred by participants who are requested to leave the premises or refused registration/accreditation or access to the forum sessions for which they have been nominated and/or registered as participants, panelists or speakers.
 

Partner-led event applications

Besides the main events, there will be partner-led events in seven categories:

  • Networking events
  • Voices from Cities
  • SDGs in Action
  • Urban Library
  • ONE UN
  • WUF Academy events
  • Urban Cinema

More information will be available soon about event submissions on this website.

Media guidelines

More information will be available soon on this website.

On-site accreditation
When will the onsite accreditation start to obtain the WUF13 photo badge?

The photo badge is required to get access to the WUF13 venue. To avoid delays and long queues, participants are advised to arrive early and pick up their registration badges as early as possible. On-site accreditation will be operational at the WUF13 venue as follows:

14 – 16 May 2026: 09:00 - 18:00 

17 – 19 May 2026: 07:00 - 18:00

20 – 22 May 2026: 07:00 - 17:00

What documents will I need to present to get accredited?

For in-person accreditation at the venue, you need to bring a copy of the email registration confirmation, which includes your unique registration number and QR code, and proof of identification used for your online registration (original passport copy or ID). The WUF13 venue will be well-marked with directions, information, and a map of the facilities. Volunteers and staff will be on hand to answer any questions.

Visa and invitation letters
Will UN-Habitat issue invitation letters?

UN-Habitat will not issue invitation letters to WUF13 participants. WUF13 participants must contact their nearest embassy for information about obtaining a visa, if required.

Do I need a visa, where and how do I apply?

The visa requirements for Azerbaijan depends on your nationality. Some countries are eligible for visa-free entry, while others can obtain e-visas or visas on arrival. UN-Habitat will not issue invitation letters to WUF13 participants, it is recommended to attach the "WUF13 Registration confirmation" email when applying for your visa. Please note that the WUF13 registration document will NOT guarantee that a visa will be issued.

Visa support

The Government of Azerbaijan is committed to supporting WUF 13 participants with their visa applications at embassies and consulates.
More information will be available soon about the visa application process on this website.

Financing / Sponsorship
Can l get sponsorship to participate in the forum?

No. Sponsorships will not be made available to participants by UN-Habitat. You are responsible for making your own arrangements for travel, accommodation, health, and travel insurance and to cover your own expenses in Azerbaijan. 

Can l get refunded for my travel costs by UN-Habitat? 

No. Participants are expected to cover their own travel costs. Will I be provided accommodation by UN-Habitat? No. Participants are expected to cover their own accommodation costs and expenses. 

Will l be refunded for the visa application? 

No. Participants are expected to meet all costs related to their participation in WUF13.

Accommodation
Where can I find accommodation in Baku?

We will soon provide information on the WUF13 recommended hotels with negotiated rates. The list  will be frequently updated. 

Check on the list of hotels to discover where service dogs are allowed. 

Participants are responsible for securing accommodation  of their choice at their own cost.
 

Transport
WUF13 dedicated transport

There will be for WUF13 participants dedicated bus lines and schedules from the main points in the city to the WUF13 venue. 

More information will be available soon on this website. 

General information 

Navigating Azerbaijan is relatively easy, thanks to a mix of public and private transport options. Below is an overview of the primary means of transport available within the country: 

Buses (Minibuses): 
  • The cheapest and most widely used means of transport across the cities.
  • Tickets can be purchased at big bus stations in Baku (International Bus Terminal).
  • You can pay in cash; most routes do not require advance booking. 
Trains: 
  • Only a few rail services to and from Baku towards the bigger cities such as Ganja.
  • Train travel is affordable, but long-distance routes are slow and limited. 
Domestic flights: 
  • Azerbaijan Airlines operates limited internal flights (e.g., Baku to Nakhchivan).
  • Useful for long-distance connections not served by road. 
Taxis and ride-hailing apps: 
  • Taxis are widely available in cities. Always agree on a fare when using.
  • Use Bolt or Uber in Baku for fixed pricing.
Excursions and Tours

Participants wishing to book excursions and tours in Baku or Azerbaijan are welcome to do so. 

More information will be available soon on this website.

Internet Connection
Will there be WIFI?

Yes, within the WUF13 venue free WIFI services throughout the venue..

Will there be a WUF13 APP?

Yes. More information will be available in due course on this website.

Will there be live webcast?

Yes. UN Web TV will live-webcast the WUF13 main events. More information will be available soon on this website.

Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct: to “Prevent harassment, including sexual harassment, at UN System Events”.

Purpose: The organizations of the United Nations system are committed to enabling events at which everyone can participate in an inclusive, respectful and safe environment.

Standard of Conduct: UN system events are guided by the highest ethical and professional standards. All participants are expected to conduct themselves with integrity and respect towards all participants attending or involved with any UN system event.

Reporting Misconduct: If you experience or witness harassment, including sexual harassment, you are encouraged to report the matter to the event organizer via [unhabitat-cos@un.org]. Reports can also be made through the UN Speak Up Helpline (available 24/7): +1 917 367 8910 or by email at [speakup@un.org].

Health and travel insurance

It is recommended to possess valid health and travel insurance that covers any medical expenses during your stay in Azerbaijan. This will provide you with peace of mind and ensure that you are adequately covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

Other useful information
Will there be prayer rooms inside the venue?

Yes.

Where can I find the information desk?

Various information desks are found within the venue and at the airport.

Where can I find staff or focal points who are coordinating events?

Please ask at the Information desk for guidance.

May I present a paper at the Forum?

No, there are no calls for presentation of papers, academic study, articles, etc. at the World Urban Forum.

May I volunteer at WUF13?

More information will be available soon on this website.

May I sell my book or a product at WUF13?

No. The World Urban Forum does not facilitate the sale of private products, publications, etc. The same applies for the Urban Expo.

Which currency is used?

The official currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). The exchange rate may vary daily.

Which voltage and electrical outlet is used?

Azerbaijan operates on a 220-230 V supply voltage and 50Hz, with two plug types: plug type C and plug type F. In Azerbaijan, types C and F are the official standards. Plug type C has two round pins, while plug type F has two round pins and two earth clips on the side.

Transport with guide dogs

More information will be available soon on this website.

Will there be medical support at the WUF13 venue?

First aid and emergency medical services will be available inside the WUF13 venue.

Participants are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive international medical and travel insurance for the duration of their stay.

UN-Habitat or the host country will not be responsible for medical, accident and travel emergencies, for compensation for death or disability, for loss of or damage to personal property and for any other costs or losses that may be incurred during travel or the period of participation at the conference including pre-sessional meetings.

Mobile Operators and device registration
Which are the mobile operators?

There are three main companies that offer cellular communication services in Azerbaijan: Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar Mobile. These companies provide services beyond voice communication, including 4G, 3G, and mobile data for internet browsing and multimedia access.

Where can I purchase a mobile sim card and airtime?

You can purchase a mobile sim card upon arrival at the international airport. Participants can subscribe to a service pack with mobile telephone operators. A valid passport is required as the prior document for subscription. The costs of this operation vary depending on the operator and desired pack.

Why and where can I have my mobile phone registered?

If you are planning to travel to Azerbaijan for a longer period of time (exceeding 30 days) and want to use your phone with a local SIM, you will need to register your device within 30 days of entering the country. This is because Azerbaijan has implemented a mobile phone IMEI code registration system to tackle issues such as illegal imports, phone cloning, Telephone thefts and fake IMEI codes.

The registration process can be done online through the E-government portal, at the Heydar Aliyev International Airport (Customs declaration desk prior to exceeding the baggage hall), post office, registration center or mobile operator customer service. The registration process usually takes up to three working days. Once your application is approved, you will receive a notification confirming the successful registration of your device.

What happens if I don’t register my device within 30 days?

To register your phone, it must be declared at the airport. If not declared at entry, additional penalties may apply when registering.

The registration process must be completed within 30 days of entering the country. If you do not register your device within this timeframe, it will be locked out of service. This rule applies to both locals and foreigners using a local SIM card. The 30-day period is accumulative, not reset upon departure.

How much should I pay for the IMEI-code registration and other fees?

It costs AZN 5 (around €3) to register each imported device for personal use, and you will need to provide your phone's IMEI code, brand name, model, Copy of person's ID and the phone for inspection.

If the market value of the phone exceeds USD 800, a 36% customs fee applies to the amount above USD 800.

Do these rules apply to the subscribers who use roaming in Azerbaijan?

If a foreign national utilizes international roaming services within the territory of Azerbaijan through a SIM card issued by a foreign mobile operator, the registration of the mobile device’s IMEI code in Azerbaijan shall not be required.

Contact
How can I contact UN-Habitat in case of other general questions?

Please write to unhabitat-wuf@un.org

How can I contact UN-Habitat in case of questions regarding registration, events and on-site accreditation?

Please write to unhabitat-events@un.org