Bangladesh
Summary
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts. This does not include the city of Chittagong or other parts of Chittagong Division.
Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Bangladesh’s current entry restrictions and requirements. Due to COVID-19, these may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.
If you plan to pass through another country on your journey, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.
It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides appropriate cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.
Measures in response to Coronavirus can be introduced at short notice by the Bangladesh authorities. Measures currently in place include wearing masks in public spaces, capacity restrictions in public settings, including on public transport and a requirement to show vaccination status in some settings. You are advised to have proof of your vaccination status, if applicable, and to carry a mask.
COVID-19 public health measures are in force in Bangladesh. See Coronavirus.
Up to 150,000 British nationals visit Bangladesh every year. Most visits are trouble free.
Bishwa Ijtema, the world’s second largest congregation of Muslims, will be held in two phases; from 13 to 15 January and from 20 to 22 January 2023. The congregation is held beside the Turag River in Tongi (approximately 3km north of Dhaka). Heavy traffic and increased security measures may cause temporary, localised delays and disruption. If you are travelling to or from Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International airport during this period, you should allow extra time for your journey.
Travel in Bangladesh during the monsoon season (June to September) can be hazardous. See Monsoon season.
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Bangladesh. The threat extends across the country. There have been several IED (Improvised Explosive Device) attacks targeting police and security forces in Dhaka, Khulna, Chittagong and Sylhet. There is a risk that future attacks could target public gatherings, including religious gatherings and political rallies, crowded areas, places with a police or security presence and locations where foreign nationals are known to gather. You should minimise your exposure to these areas, consider your movements carefully and follow any specific advice of the local authorities. See Terrorism.
Political rallies with potential for disorder or clashes including with law enforcement, may take place at short notice. Across Bangladesh you’re advised to avoid large gatherings, including those for religious gatherings, festivals and political rallies. See Political violence.
Severe air pollution is a major hazard to public health, especially during the winter months. Dhaka is currently experiencing extremely high levels of pollution. See Air pollution.
Bangladesh lies in a zone of seismic activity. See Earthquakes.
Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever occur all year round. There’s been a significant increase in the number of cases of dengue fever across Bangladesh, including in Dhaka. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. See Health.
If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission. Consular support is limited in parts of Bangladesh where we advise against all but essential travel.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.