Asia and Oceania

Terrorism

There is a general threat from terrorism.  Attacks cannot be ruled out and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.   

There have been no recent terrorist attacks within Bangladesh but the possibility of future attacks cannot be ruled out and British nationals should exercise caution.

For further information see terrorism abroad.

Crime

Armed robbery, pick pocketing, and purse snatching are common to Bangladesh. There have been incidents, notably in Gulshan and Banani, where resident westerners, familiar with local conditions, have been the victims of armed robbery. Therefore it is advised that you do not carry a large amount of money with you or wear jewellery in the street. Thieves often work in pairs on motorcycles or 3-wheeled motorised rickshaws known as ''CNGs''.  Passengers using '' cycle rickshaws'' and  ''CNGs'' or travelling alone in taxis are particularly vulnerable, especially at night.  If travelling alone you should try to avoid using public transport.  We do not advise ''cycle rickshaws'' as a safe mode of transport.

Officials sometimes abuse their authority.  You should be accompanied when visiting police stations.

Crime at international airports

Passengers sometimes face harassment at Bangladesh’s international airports. There are regular reports of theft and harassment at Dhaka and Sylhet airports. Beware of touts offering to carry your bags – many are thieves. Arrange pick-up transport in advance with your hotel/colleagues/friends. Taxis, including those serving the airport, often overcharge and drivers have been known to rob passengers. Passport theft at Dhaka and Sylhet airports is a particular concern.  Ensure your documents and any valuables are accounted for and secure at all times.

Abductions

Abduction of children and businessmen for ransom is not unknown. Although this does not appear to be particularly directed at foreigners, you should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.
 

For more general information see victims of crime abroad.

 

Political Situation  

Bangladesh Country Profile

Bangladesh has a long history of political violence. You should keep yourself informed of developments in Bangladesh by regularly checking this advice and monitoring the local media. Please see the detailed guidance in the Local Travel – Civil Unrest/Hartals/Demonstrations section of this advice.

Local Travel

Civil Unrest/Hartals/Demonstrations

During civil unrest, hartals (general strikes), or blockades and demonstrations you should exercise extreme caution and vigilance. In the past, many such events have become violent, with explosives and firearms sometimes being used.

Demonstrations are often held at short notice in all areas of Bangladesh including Dhaka (though less so in Gulshan and Baridhara) and there is the potential for these demonstrations to become violent.  The areas located near Dhaka University campus and other universities can be particularly volatile during civil unrest and demonstrations.  The period after Friday prayers can be a time of increased tensions. Party offices are best avoided during periods of heightened political tension.

You should also monitor the local media for information on more localised or minor events. Details of English language news broadcasts are as follows:

ATN - 1800hrs
Bangla Vision - 2105hrs
BTV - 2200hrs
BTV and other Bangla channels - 2330hrs

You should consult a reliable local contact before venturing into unfamiliar areas or areas where there is a history of trouble.

Chittagong Hill Tracts

We advise against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts (this does not include Chittagong City).

If you must travel for essential business, you should ensure that adequate security precautions and procedures are in place before arrival.

 

Inform the Consular Section of the British High Commission in Dhaka in advance if your travel itinerary includes the Chittagong Hill Tracts.  You should also carry some form of identification when visiting this area.

You should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.

 

Indian Border

You should exercise particular care near the border areas in Bramanbaria district. There are occasional skirmishes between the Indian and Bangladeshi border guards, including heavy fire.

Road Travel

If you intend to drive then you should hold an international driving licence.

The Bangladesh road network is in poor condition, and road safety is also very poor. Drivers of larger vehicles expect to be given right of way. Speeding, dangerous and aggressive overtaking and sudden manoeuvres without indicating, mean that serious accidents are common. You should take particular care on long road journeys and use well-travelled and well-lit routes where possible. Traffic is heavy and chaotic in urban areas and the streets of Dhaka are extremely congested with buses, trucks, cars,  CNG three-wheelers, rickshaws and pedestrians.

Driving at night is especially dangerous as many vehicles are unlit, or travel on full-beam headlights. Streetlights are rare, even in cities. There is also a risk of banditry if you travel between towns after dark, by train, bus or ferry.
 

For further information see driving abroad.

Air Travel

On Sunday 11 January 2009, a Dubai bound Bangladesh Biman Boeing 747 had to make an emergency landing at Zia International Airport due to a malfunctioning engine.  The Airport Authorities confirm no passengers were harmed.

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community.  You should check the European Commission website [opens a new website] to see whether this will affect your travel.

 

Sea/River Travel

River and sea ferries are often dangerously overcrowded, particularly in the days before and after religious festivals and other holidays.  There have been a number of serious accidents in Bangladesh and capsizing is common.  You should exercise caution if such transport is required.

There are also frequent acts of piracy in and around Bangladeshi waters. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautions.

For more advice see river & sea safety.