Bangladesh Travel Advice
Bangladesh, located in South Asia, is a densely populated country bordered by India on three sides, Myanmar to the southeast, and the Bay of Bengal to the south.
It gained independence from Pakistan in 1971 after the Bangladesh Liberation War and has since developed into one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The country is characterized by its vast river systems, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. These rivers contribute to frequent flooding during the monsoon season but also make Bangladesh’s land extremely fertile.
The country’s geography is mostly flat, with coastal areas in the south. The Sundarbans mangrove forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Bengal tiger and lies along the southwestern coast.
Bangladesh has a rich cultural history that blends South Asian, Mughal, and British colonial influences. The country is known for its vibrant music, dance, poetry, and art. Rabindranath Tagore, who wrote Bangladesh’s national anthem, and Kazi Nazrul Islam are two of the most celebrated literary figures.
Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of rice and jute, has traditionally been the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy. However, over the past few decades, the country has seen significant economic diversification.
The textile and garment industry is the largest contributor to Bangladesh’s GDP, accounting for more than 80% of the country’s exports. Bangladesh is one of the world’s largest exporters of ready-made garments. Other key sectors include fisheries, shipbuilding, remittances from overseas workers, and a growing IT and services sector.
The country has good relations with most of its neighbors, though it has had border disputes with both India and Myanmar. The Rohingya refugee crisis, stemming from persecution in Myanmar, has strained resources and relations as Bangladesh hosts over a million refugees in the Cox’s Bazar region.
Visiting Bangladesh FAQsHire a bodyguard in Bangladesh
If you are interested in hiring a bodyguard for your travel to Bangladesh, please visit our website for our Bodyguard Services in Bangladesh.
Key Information for Bangladesh
Emergency Services
Police emergency: 999
Fire emergency: 9 555 555
Medical emergency: 199
Country Overview
Capital City: Dhaka
Official State Language(s): Bangla
Official State Religion(s): Islam (Sunni)
State Currency: Bangladeshi Taka (BDT)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is Bangladesh?
The security situation in Bangladesh remains volatile and uncertain following the August 2024 ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The student-led protests that began over job quotas expanded into nationwide demonstrations calling for the end of Hasina’s 15-year rule. The protests resulted in violent clashes, with over 1,000 deaths and widespread property damage. The upheaval included attacks on government buildings, police stations, and public infrastructure.
Key Security Challenges:
Political Instability:
Following Sheikh Hasina’s departure, Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel Peace Prize winner, was appointed head of an interim government. His administration has focused on restoring law and order, but tensions remain high between political factions, particularly the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the former ruling Awami League.
The BNP has pushed for immediate elections, while Yunus’s government has been working to stabilize the country and reform public institutions. If elections are delayed, there is concern that the BNP and its supporters could launch further protests, exacerbating the already fragile situation.
Urban and Rural Violence:
Dhaka and other major cities, including Chittagong and Sylhet, experienced street battles, arson, and attacks on police stations during the height of the protests. Many police officers were killed, and several stations were torched, creating a sense of insecurity among law enforcement. Though violence has subsided in many areas, remnants of unrest continue, particularly in politically sensitive regions like the Chittagong Hill Tracts, where ethnic tensions have also resurfaced.
Crime:
crime in Bangladesh continues to be a significant concern, particularly in urban areas like Dhaka. Key crimes include robberies, muggings, extortion, and kidnappings, all of which have been on the rise in recent years. Dhaka, the capital, has seen an increase in organized gang activity, with groups engaging in both petty and violent crimes.
Robberies: Reports show a steady increase in robbery incidents, with more organized groups operating in the city. High-profile robberies often involve gangs impersonating law enforcement to rob victims. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) data reveals that robbery cases increased between 2021 and 2023.
Muggings and Extortion: Muggings, often involving violence or the threat of weapons, have also become more frequent, with vulnerable targets including pedestrians at night. Extortion is another issue, with businesses and individuals being coerced into paying protection money, especially in densely populated areas.
Youth Gangs: Dhaka faces a growing problem of youth gangs, with an estimated 50 teen gangs active in the city. These gangs engage in turf wars, violent clashes, and occasionally serious crimes such as rape, often with political connections supporting their activities. The rise in youth crime reflects broader social challenges, including lack of education and economic opportunities.
Role of the Military:
To restore stability, the interim government granted the Bangladesh Army expanded powers, allowing them to conduct arrests, disperse gatherings, and restore order. Despite their increased presence in urban areas, there are reports of continued low morale among security forces due to the violence faced during the uprising. This has contributed to uneven enforcement of law and order in some regions.
Economic Disruption and Social Tensions:
The unrest significantly disrupted Bangladesh’s economy, with garment workers—a critical labor force—organizing strikes demanding higher wages. This has led to the closure of approximately 100 factories and increased tensions between employers and laborers.
The ongoing unrest and shutdown of factories have affected exports and caused food prices to rise, adding another layer of stress to an already strained social environment.
Restoring Law and Order:
The Yunus-led interim government has prioritized reforms in public institutions, including the police and Election Commission, to regain public trust. However, law enforcement remains inconsistent, and there is concern about the government's ability to fully stabilize the situation before any future elections.
Outlook and Risks:
While some normalcy is returning to urban centers like Dhaka, the overall security situation is fragile, and unrest could flare up again, especially if political grievances remain unaddressed. The timing of the next elections will be a key factor in determining whether the country can transition peacefully or if further demonstrations and violence will emerge.
Travelers should adhere to local laws and customs, as Bangladesh is a predominantly Islamic country with strict regulations on behavior, public displays of affection, and alcohol consumption. Public displays of affection, especially near religious sites, and sexual activity outside of marriage may lead to legal consequences. It’s important to remain respectful of cultural norms, particularly in more conservative areas. For more information on Islamic culture, please see: Guide to Islamic culture.
Visiting Bangladesh FAQsHealth Emergencies in Bangladesh
Health emergencies in Bangladesh are a significant concern due to several key factors, including the country's high population density, frequent natural disasters, and limited healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Below are some of the major health risks and emergencies facing Bangladesh:
Health emergencies in Bangladesh are a significant concern due to several key factors, including the country's high population density, frequent natural disasters, and limited healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. Below are some of the major health risks and emergencies facing Bangladesh:
Waterborne Diseases:
Cholera: Bangladesh frequently experiences cholera outbreaks, especially during the rainy and flood seasons, when access to clean water becomes limited. In 2023, severe floods led to an increase in cases. Cholera, a waterborne bacterial infection, causes acute diarrhea and can be fatal if untreated. The government, along with international health organizations, continues efforts to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs to mitigate this risk.
Typhoid and Dysentery: Like cholera, these diseases are common due to poor water quality and sanitation in many parts of the country. Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella typhi, spreads through contaminated food and water and is particularly prevalent in densely populated urban areas.
Dengue Fever:
Dengue fever has become a growing health crisis in Bangladesh, particularly in urban areas like Dhaka. In recent years, outbreaks have surged, with the 2023 outbreak being one of the most severe in decades. The disease, transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causes high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, and in severe cases, hemorrhagic fever and death.
Malaria:
Malaria remains a threat in some rural and forested areas of Bangladesh, particularly in the Chittagong Hill Tracts and other border regions.
Maternal and Child Health:
Bangladesh has made significant progress in reducing maternal and child mortality rates, but challenges remain. Access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural areas, is limited, and conditions such as pre-eclampsia, postpartum hemorrhage, and newborn infections remain common causes of maternal and infant deaths.
Air Pollution:
Urban areas in Bangladesh, particularly Dhaka, suffer from severe air pollution, which contributes to a range of respiratory diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. The poor air quality poses long-term health risks to residents, particularly children and the elderly.
Healthcare System:
Bangladesh’s healthcare system, especially in rural regions, faces shortages of qualified healthcare workers, medical supplies, and emergency services. While the country has developed a network of healthcare facilities, including upazila (sub-district) health complexes and district hospitals, the quality of care is inconsistent. Urban hospitals, such as those in Dhaka, tend to provide better services, but they are often overcrowded.
Emergency medical services (EMS) are still underdeveloped, with limited ambulance services and a lack of advanced trauma care. During health emergencies, especially after natural disasters like floods and cyclones, access to immediate medical care can be delayed due to infrastructure damage.
Conclusion:
Bangladesh faces multiple health challenges ranging from infectious diseases like cholera and dengue to non-communicable diseases exacerbated by urbanization and air pollution. The healthcare system, particularly in rural areas, struggles to provide adequate services, making it important for travelers and residents to take preventive health measures and remain vigilant during outbreaks.
FAQs for visiting Bangladesh
You can find the following embassies in Bangladesh for the US and UK:
U.S. Embassy Dhaka
Madani Avenue,
Baridhara
Dhaka -1212
Bangladesh
Telephone: +880 255 662 000
Email:[email protected]
British High Commission Dhaka
United Nations Road
Baridhara
P O Box 6079
Dhaka - 1212
Dhaka
Bangladesh
Telephone: +880 298 427 059
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
To visit Bangladesh, the type of visa you require depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. Here are the main visa options and requirements:
Visa on Arrival:
Available for citizens from many countries, particularly those traveling for tourism or business. This visa can be obtained at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka and other entry points.
The visa is typically valid for 30 days.
You need to provide:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity)
- A return ticket or proof of onward travel
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
- Visa fee (around $51 USD)
Tourist Visa:
Tourist visas can be applied for in advance at a Bangladeshi embassy or consulate. These are usually issued for single or multiple entries and are valid for up to 90 days.
Required documents typically include:
- A valid passport
- A completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photos
- Proof of accommodation or an invitation letter
Business Visa:
Business visas are also available for individuals traveling for business purposes, and these can be obtained either through an embassy/consulate or on arrival (for eligible countries).
Requirements include:
A letter of invitation from a business entity in Bangladesh
Business-related documents proving the purpose of your visit
eVisa:
Bangladesh also offers an eVisa system, allowing travelers to apply online. The eVisa is available for both tourist and business purposes.
Processing usually takes 4-7 days.
Transit Visa:
If you are passing through Bangladesh on the way to another destination and plan to stay for less than 72 hours, a transit visa may be required.
Other Long-Term Visas:
If you plan to work, study, or live in Bangladesh for an extended period, you will need to apply for an appropriate work or residence visa through the Bangladeshi embassy in your home country. These visas typically require a sponsor in Bangladesh, such as an employer or educational institution.
For the most up-to-date information, always check with the Bangladeshi embassy or consulate in your country or visit the official website for Bangladesh visas.
Visa-Exempt Countries:
Citizens of some countries, primarily those within Southern African Development Community (SADC), such as Botswana, Malawi, Mauritius, and Zimbabwe, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
Tourist Visa:
Single-entry visas: Most travelers, including those from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many European Union countries, need a visa to enter Zambia. A single-entry visa is valid for up to 90 days.
Multiple-entry visas: Available for travelers who plan to enter Zambia more than once. This visa is also valid for 90 days but allows for multiple entries.
Documents required include:
- A valid passport (with at least six months of validity and two blank pages)
- A completed visa application form
- Passport-sized photographs
- Proof of accommodation or an invitation letter
- Return or onward ticket
- Payment of the visa fee, which varies based on nationality and visa type
Visa on Arrival:
Many nationalities, including citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival at Zambia's international airports and border posts. The fees for a single-entry visa are typically around $50 USD, and for a double-entry visa, it's around $80 USD.
eVisa:
Zambia also offers an eVisa system that allows travelers to apply for a visa online before their trip. The eVisa can be applied for through the Zambian Immigration Department's website. This option is often more convenient and avoids potential delays at border crossings.
The eVisa is available for single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry purposes, with processing taking between 3 to 5 days.
KAZA Univisa:
For those visiting both Zambia and Zimbabwe, the KAZA Univisa is available, allowing travelers to visit both countries on a single visa. It is valid for 30 days and costs around $50 USD. This visa is ideal for tourists visiting attractions like Victoria Falls from both sides of the border.
Business Visa:
Travelers visiting Zambia for business purposes require a business visa. The single-entry business visa is valid for 30 days, and multiple-entry visas may be issued based on the needs of the traveler. Business visas can be applied for in advance or obtained on arrival, and the documentation required is similar to that for tourist visas but may also include an invitation letter from the Zambian business partner or company.
Transit Visa:
Transit visas are available for travelers passing through Zambia en route to another destination. These visas are valid for stays of up to 7 days and are available at border crossings or through the eVisa system.
Work and Residence Permits:
If you plan to work, volunteer, or stay long-term in Zambia, you will need a work permit or residence permit. These require additional documentation, including a job offer or volunteering agreement, and the application process is handled through the Zambian Ministry of Home Affairs.
Key Considerations:
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
You may need to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic.
For the most up-to-date information and to apply for an eVisa, visit the Zambian Immigration Department website or consult the nearest Zambian embassy or consulate in your country.
In 2023 and 2024, Bangladesh experienced a resurgence in Islamist militant activity, primarily involving groups such as Jamaatul Ansar-fil-Hindal Sharqiya.
This group, formed in 2019, has been linked to efforts aimed at establishing an Islamic state in the country. Authorities uncovered training camps in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, where militants were reportedly receiving combat training. The Bangladeshi government has arrested many members of Jamaatul Ansar and disrupted planned terrorist attacks, including a notable plot to assault Kashimpur Central Jail with the intent to free high-profile Islamist militants. This operation was successfully foiled by security forces, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by these extremist groups.
In addition to the rise in Islamist militancy, communal violence targeting religious minorities has intensified. In August 2024, widespread anti-Hindu violence occurred following political turmoil. Over 2,000 incidents of violence were reported, particularly in Khulna and Rangpur divisions, where Hindu homes, businesses, and temples were attacked, looted, and set on fire. The violence claimed several lives and displaced hundreds of families.
This combination of terrorist threats and communal violence underscores the fragile security situation in Bangladesh, especially as political instability continues to grow ahead of the 2024 elections. The government's continued efforts to counter militancy, coupled with the need to address communal tensions, remain critical to maintaining national security.
Before traveling to Bangladesh, it is important to ensure you are up to date with specific vaccinations and immunizations, based on the health risks in the region. The recommended vaccines depend on factors such as your travel itinerary, planned activities, and health status. Here is a list of commonly recommended vaccines for travelers to Bangladesh:
Routine Vaccinations:
Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines, including:
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Influenza
Hepatitis A:
Hepatitis A is transmitted through contaminated food or water and is common in Bangladesh. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers.
Hepatitis B:
Spread through blood and bodily fluids, Hepatitis B is a risk, especially for travelers who may have close contact with the local population or engage in medical procedures.
Typhoid:
Typhoid fever is prevalent in Bangladesh, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. It is spread through contaminated food and water, and vaccination is highly recommended.
Cholera:
Cholera can occur in areas with inadequate sanitation, particularly during flooding. If you're traveling to rural regions or areas affected by recent outbreaks, vaccination may be necessary. The oral cholera vaccine is available and recommended for high-risk areas.
Rabies:
Rabies is present in Bangladesh, particularly in rural areas. Vaccination is recommended if you plan to work with animals, spend time in rural areas, or participate in outdoor activities such as cycling or trekking.
Japanese Encephalitis:
Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral infection that occurs in rural areas, especially during the rainy season. Vaccination is recommended if you plan to spend extended periods in rural regions or if you will be visiting during the monsoon season (June to October).
Malaria Prevention:
Although there is no vaccine for malaria, it is prevalent in some rural areas of Bangladesh. Consult your doctor for antimalarial medications and use preventive measures such as insect repellents, mosquito nets, and protective clothing.
Yellow Fever:
Although Bangladesh does not have yellow fever, travelers coming from countries where yellow fever is endemic must present a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Other Preventive Measures:
Carry oral rehydration salts and anti-diarrheal medication to manage dehydration or diarrhea, common issues for travelers in Bangladesh.
Make sure to follow strict hygiene practices, such as drinking bottled or boiled water, avoiding ice, and eating well-cooked foods.
It's always best to consult a travel clinic or your healthcare provider at least 4–6 weeks before your trip to receive personalized advice and ensure you're up to date with all necessary vaccinations and preventive measures.
Public Transportation in Tanzania:
Public transportation in Bangladesh is widely used, especially in urban areas, but it can be challenging for newcomers due to its often chaotic and overcrowded nature. Here’s an overview of the main options:
Buses:
Public buses are the most common and affordable form of transport, especially in cities like Dhaka and Chittagong. However, buses are often crowded and can be unreliable. Traffic congestion in cities makes bus travel slow at peak hours. There are also luxury bus services offering more comfort for intercity travel.
Private bus companies, like Green Line and Shohagh Paribahan, operate long-distance routes between major cities, offering air-conditioned services at a higher cost.
Rickshaws and CNGs:
Cycle rickshaws are widely used in cities and towns. They are cheap and plentiful, but generally limited to short distances.
CNG auto-rickshaws, powered by compressed natural gas, are also common for short and medium distances. Fares are negotiable, but many operate without meters, so it's important to agree on the fare beforehand.
Trains:
Bangladesh has an extensive rail network operated by Bangladesh Railway, connecting major cities and towns. Trains are often slower than buses but are considered safer and less chaotic for longer journeys.
There are options for first-class or air-conditioned compartments on long-distance trains, offering more comfort and space.
Ferries:
With numerous rivers and waterways, ferries are a vital part of transportation in Bangladesh, particularly in the southern regions and around Dhaka. There are passenger ferries that connect towns and cities, though they are often overcrowded, and safety standards may not always be reliable.
Ride-Sharing Services:
Apps like Uber and Pathao (a local service) are gaining popularity, particularly in Dhaka. They offer both cars and motorbike rides, providing more convenience and safety for tourists and locals alike.
Driving in Bangladesh with a Foreign License:
International Driving License: If you plan to drive in Bangladesh as a tourist, you can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your home country’s driving license. The IDP is valid for a limited period (usually up to 6 months).
Local License: If you are planning to stay longer or become a resident, you’ll need to apply for a Bangladeshi driving license.
Road Conditions: Driving in Bangladesh can be quite challenging, especially in urban areas like Dhaka, due to heavy traffic, lack of lane discipline, and frequent traffic jams. Roads in rural areas may be poorly maintained. It is generally advised to hire a local driver if you are unfamiliar with the local traffic conditions.
Safety Considerations:
Traffic accidents are common, so it is important to exercise caution while using public transportation or driving yourself.
For visitors, using ride-sharing apps or private cars with drivers is often safer and more convenient than driving or relying on public transport.
Our closest office
For any enquiries about our security services in Brunei, please contact our Kuala Lumpur office and our team will assist you.
Intelligent Protection International
Wisma Selangor Dredging, 142C Jalan Ampang
West Block, 15th Floor
50450, Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Telephone: +60 32772 7346
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Bangladesh is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.