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.
Cyclone Mocha in the Bay of Bengal will impact Bangladesh and Myanmar. You can monitor progress live on the website of the World Meteorological Organisation. See our tropical cyclones page for advice about how to prepare for and what to do ahead of a storm.
Hazardous conditions, very strong winds and flooding in the south-east region of Bangladesh are forecast, including Cox Bazar and Chittagong Division, affecting safety.
Transport routes are likely to be affected, including airports. If travel is necessary, familiarise yourself with the advice of local authorities in advance and take extra care.
Those needing information or support from the authorities regarding Cyclone Mocha can call toll-free Bangladesh National Helpline 333.
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.
COVID-19 public health measures are in force in Bangladesh. You are advised to have proof of your vaccination status, if applicable, and to carry a mask. See Coronavirus.
Up to 150,000 British nationals visit Bangladesh every year. Most visits are trouble free.
Travel in Bangladesh during the monsoon season (June to September) can be hazardous. See Monsoon season. Extreme weather episodes like tropical cyclones can occur. See our tropical cyclones page for advice.
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.