Bangladesh

Emergency services are extremely limited in Bangladesh. If you have transportation, it may be faster to go straight to the nearest hospital.

Note that emergency operators may speak only local languages. Outside of Dhaka, you will need to include the city's area code by dialing 02-999 or 88-02-000.

Tourist facilities are minimal in Bangladesh. Travellers should always ensure their identification and travel documents are kept safe, follow the advice of local authorities, and remain aware of their personal security at all times in Bangladesh.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, are common. Unaccompanied women are the most vulnerable. Women also face the risk of both verbal and physical abuse. Do not walk alone after dark.

Violent crime occurs in major cities, and security threats against foreigners occur in various areas across the country, including in Chittagong, Sylhet, Feni, and Khulna. To avoid being targeted, do not show any signs of affluence such as jewelry or expensive clothing.

Road travel may be dangerous due to poor road conditions, traffic congestions, debris on roads, and reckless driving. Exercise extreme caution in rural areas where roads may be unpaved and unlit at night. Avoid travelling after dark.

Exercise caution when taking public transportation. Ferry services are often overloaded and unsafe.

Annual monsoon rains and cyclones (June - October) can cause flash floods and landslides in some areas of Bangladesh. If travelling to Bangladesh in the rainy season and planning to stay in the lowland areas, travellers should exercise caution and monitor local weather reports. Maintain a flexible schedule to allow for any unexpected changes that may occur due to rainy season weather. Bangladesh is at risk for earthquakes due to its location in an active seismic zone.

Same-sex relations and behaviours are prohibited. All travellers should avoid open displays of affection due to the conservative nature of the country. Dress modestly in respect for the country's customs. Take note of whether you will be travelling during Ramadan. If travelling during this time, do not eat, drink or smoke in public between sunrise and sunset.

Travellers should avoid all travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region due to the high risk of kidnappings and politically motivated violence. Authorities of Bangladesh require advance notification from travellers going to this region 10 days before visiting. If travel to this region is essential, exercise extreme caution and follow the advice of local authorities.

Avoid Teknaf as there is a high level of drug-related gang violence in this area, with frequent reports of violent crime, such as murder, shootings between gangs, and law enforcement. Kidnapping is a risk in this area and violent crime has been increasing, specifically in the camps in the Teknaf and Nhilla area since August 2019. There is no indication that foreign nationals are being targeted.

Exercise caution near the border areas. It is very dangerous to illegally cross the border with India. Clashes, including gunfire, sometimes occur between Bangladeshi and Indian border guards.

There is a high threat of terrorism in Bangladesh.

Politically-motivated violence is common across Bangladesh. Attacks with explosive devices have occurred throughout this country. Crowded areas, such as hotels, transportation hubs, movie theatres, political rallies, etc., should be avoided if possible.

Demonstrations, political public gatherings and nationwide hartals (enforced strikes) occur frequently and should be avoided as they could turn violent at any time. Hartals, which could shut down all transportation, may result in severe travel disruptions.