Moving to Bangladesh

Living in Bangladesh 

Known for its lush green landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, Bangladesh is a unique destination for expats seeking adventure and professional opportunities. The country boasts picturesque rivers, the world's longest unbroken sea beach in Cox's Bazar, and the breathtaking Sundarbans mangrove forest, home to the elusive Bengal tiger. 

Expats moving to Bangladesh will find modern amenities in cities like Dhaka and Chittagong, including international schools, shopping malls, hospitals, and entertainment hubs. While infrastructure is still developing, major cities provide a comfortable lifestyle with a blend of local and international influences. 

Many expats move to Bangladesh for lucrative work and business opportunities, while others are on humanitarian missions. Thanks to its rapidly growing economy and strategic location in South Asia, the country is also gaining traction as a destination for investors. 

Working in Bangladesh 

Bangladesh's economy is emerging, and the local workforce lacks specialised skills. As such, many large corporations and multinational companies often employ expats to fill these gaps. Key industries needing specialist and technical skills include textiles and garments, technology, agriculture, and manufacturing.  

Some expats work for the many NGOs in the country. Teaching opportunities at international schools are also available. Bangladesh is investing in infrastructure development, creating opportunities for expats with engineering expertise.  
Expats can secure jobs through recruitment agencies, job portals, and networking. Large multinational companies and NGOs typically post openings on their websites.  

You will need a work visa and a work permit to work in Bangladesh legally. Fortunately, the employer typically sponsors these.  

Working in Bangladesh
Doing Business in Bangladesh

Local culture in Bangladesh 

Bangladesh is a culturally rich country with deep-rooted traditions. The people are hospitable and value respect, modesty, and family ties.  

Expats will have to adjust to 'Bangladeshi time'. Locals often take a relaxed approach to time, meaning appointments and meetings may not happen at their scheduled time. Although English is widely spoken in the country's urban areas, it may be worthwhile to learn a few key phrases of Bengali (Bangla). 

Most Bangladeshi workplaces are generally hierarchical, with seniority and age being highly respected. Building relationships is crucial in professional settings, and you will need to be patient due to slower bureaucratic processes. 

Local Culture in Bangladesh

Accommodation in Bangladesh 

Apartments are the most common form of housing for expats in Bangladesh's major cities. Families regularly opt for houses in gated communities, which provide security and shared amenities like gyms and swimming pools. 

Although accommodation in Bangladesh is mainly affordable, finding an apartment that suits Western standards may be challenging. Fortunately, many employers offer some form of housing assistance to their expat employees. If you have to go through the process alone, we recommend working with a real estate agent or renting short-term accommodation while looking for a long-term home.   

Accommodation in Bangladesh

Cost of living in Bangladesh 

The cost of living in Bangladesh is incredibly low when compared to Western countries. That said, if expats choose to live a Western lifestyle, costs can quickly add up.   

Some expats will be fortunate enough to have their housing covered by their employers, while others will receive housing assistance, easing the burden of housing expenses. Bangladesh faces frequent power outages, so you'll have to budget for alternative energy sources.  

Private healthcare and international education are also likely to be significant expenses. Otherwise, everything from groceries to entertainment remains affordable for most expats.

Living in Bangladesh with children 

As a family-orientated society, Bangladesh is a wonderful place to raise kids. That said, living in Bangladesh with children does come with a set of challenges.  

Although this is slowly changing, there are a limited number of international schools in Dhaka, and the healthcare and public transport infrastructure may not be up to the standards many expats are used to. Nevertheless, several international schools offer globally recognised curricula, like the International Baccalaureate and American systems.  

Many expat families will enjoy the added benefit of being able to afford domestic help and childcare, which may have been out of reach in their home countries. Some families will also have a driver to help them navigate Bangladesh's notorious traffic congestion.  

There'll also be plenty to explore on the weekends. Families in Dhaka will enjoy visiting the Dhaka Zoo and Shishu Park and learning local crafts like alpana painting. Those looking to escape the city can take a trip to Cox's Bazar Beach or the Shuvolong Waterfalls.  

Education and Schools in Bangladesh

Healthcare in Bangladesh 

The public healthcare system in Bangladesh is underfunded and will not be up to the standard of most Western expats. For that reason, expats usually visit the private hospitals in Dhaka and Chittagong. While these hospitals are generally adequate, you may need to be evacuated to a nearby country for complex procedures.  

Many employers will provide comprehensive health insurance as part of the relocation package. If not, we recommend purchasing medical insurance that covers international care. Pharmacies are widely available in cities like Dhaka but may be difficult to access in rural areas.   

Getting around in Bangladesh 

Getting around in Bangladesh is not easy without private transport. Even so, traffic congestion is a major challenge in cities like Dhaka, and the country is known for its high road fatality rates.  

Some companies provide their employees, especially executives, with a car and local driver when they move to Bangladesh. However, driving in the country can be dangerous, so we recommend relying on taxis or ride-hailing services. 

Public transport is largely unreliable, but rickshaws, which are often affordable, can be used for shorter distances. Buses and trains are frequently overcrowded, and the schedule can be difficult to pin down, which can be frustrating for those from countries with efficient public transport systems.   

Climate in Bangladesh 

Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons. Summer is typically from March to June, with temperatures reaching highs of 104°F (40°C). Winters (November to February) are mild and dry. 

The monsoon season usually lasts from June to October, and occasional flooding can occur during this time. We recommend following the news in your local area and heeding any official warnings.

Moving to Bangladesh offers expats an exciting opportunity to experience a unique culture and a rapidly growing economy. Adjusting to life in this dynamic country can be a rewarding experience with the proper preparation. 

Climate Charts for Dhaka

Fast facts 

Population: Over 170 million 

Capital city: Dhaka 

Neighbouring countries: Bangladesh shares a long border with India in the north, east, and west. Myanmar is on Bangladesh's southeast border.

Geography: Bangladesh is flat, with numerous rivers. The country is home to the Sundarbans mangrove forest.  

Political system: Parliamentary republic

Major religions: Islam (majority), but Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity are also represented.

Main languages: The main language is Bengali (officially known as Bangla) but English is widely spoken in business circles. 

Money: The local currency is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) 

Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. In restaurants, leaving a tip of between 5 and 10 percent is customary.  

Time: GMT+6 

Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Three-pin plugs are typically used, but you can also find two flat parallel pins.  

Internet domain: .bd 

International dialling code: +880 

Emergency contacts: 999 for police, fire, and ambulance services 

Transport and driving: Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Public transport in Bangladesh is largely unreliable, but you can find buses, trains, and taxis. Ride-hailing applications are also available in the major cities like Dhaka.