1. Lodging Services for the U.S. Embassy Baku, Azerbaijan with Ritz Carlton
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The U.S. Embassy Baku, Azerbaijan has issued a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition for Lodging Services with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Baku. This sole-source award is for hotel accommodation services to support a Senior High-Level USG Principal and their delegation. The contract is a Firm-Fixed-Price, IDIQ with an estimated value of $873,641.06 and a period of performance through February 28, 2026.
Scope of Work
The services include approximately 2,475 room nights for guest accommodation and office rooms. Specific requirements cover:
- Deluxe (single) rooms and a Presidential Suite.
- Conference rooms and A/V equipment.
- Early Check-In and Late Check-Out fees.
- One-Time Furniture Removal Fee.
- High-speed internet access.
Contract Details
- Type: Firm-Fixed-Price, Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ)
- Period of Performance: Through February 28, 2026
- Estimated Value: $873,641.06
- Published Date: February 18, 2026 (Document)
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This is a sole-source justification, therefore set-aside provisions are not applicable.
Justification Rationale
The justification cites FAR 6.302-1 (Only one responsible source) and FAR 6.302-2 (Unusual and compelling urgency). The rationale is based on unique requirements for communications support, security, and logistical teams, coupled with short turnaround times and last-minute itinerary changes. Other hotels reviewed (Sea Breeze Resort Hotel Baku, Hilton Hotel Baku, JW Marriott Baku) were found inadequate due to insufficient room availability to meet the delegation's needs. The Contracting Officer determined the anticipated cost to be fair and reasonable.
Contact Information
- Primary: Michael Pitts (pittsmm@state.gov, 00994124883300)
- Secondary: Elnara Gurbanova (gurbanovaen@state.gov, 00994124883310)