Flights from Abu Dhabi to Dhaka

A glorious, chaotic city with many parks and lakes

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is one of world's most populated cities. Fast growing, modern Dhaka is an economic centre and the home of the President. The historic quarter has museums, forts, castles, palaces and mansions.

Dhaka climate, tips and attractions

The best time to travel is between September and March. The tropical climate is humid with a monsoon season from May through to September. Tropical storms gather in April until June.

There are a number of cultural festivals throughout the year with the Dhaka Art Summit in February, Chobi Mela (photography festival) at the end of January and the Dhaka World Music Festival also in February. The religious festivals include the Islamic Eid el Fitr, Adha and the Hindu Kali Puja. Dates for these vary.

Important information for visitors to Dhaka

Visas are required and British passport holders need to apply at the Bangladesh High Commission for a one month visa. Passports should be valid for the entire duration of the trip. Routine inoculations such as Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid should be up to date. Travellers should also consider getting vaccinated against Cholera, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies. There is a low risk of Malaria.

Bengali is the main language here, and Urdu, Hindu and English are spoken in some areas. The cost of living is low with food in restaurants costing about Tk 60.

Arrival at Dhaka airport

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is located 20 km north of Dhaka. Shared shuttles are available for travel to the city centre. An airport bus also runs from airport road, 5 mins from the airport near BDT 10. It travels to Gulistan Bus station, but the service stops running at about 8pm. The bus can be overcrowded and should be avoided if travelling with bulky luggage. Taxis cost BDT 400 for the 30 minute journey and passengers should agree on the fare before setting off.

An inexpensive hotel costs approximately Tk 60 and mid-priced accommodation around Tk 4,100.

To travel around the city, visitors can take cycle rickshaws for short distances. These cost between Tk 30 to 50 for a 15 minute journey and passengers should agree on fares beforehand. Auto rickshaws are metered and cost about TK 150-250 for an 8 km journey. Prices start at Tk 25 for the first 2 km then go to Tk 7 per km. Metered taxis cost from Tk 25, fares are negotiable. Local buses can be crowded.