Flights from Dubai to Dhaka

Thriving South Asian metropolis

Dhaka is a vibrant destination full of colours and sounds that boasts an impressive heritage in terms of historical buildings and culture. The capital of Bangladesh offers a blend of tradition and modernity to its visitors, between the Old Town and the newer districts.

Best period to travel

The climate in Dhaka is humid and tropical, with the monsoon between May and September, and tropical storms from April to June. The best period to visit the city is between September and March. The capital of Bangladesh hosts numerous cultural events, including the Dhaka Art Summit and the World Music Festival in February, and the photography festival Chobi Mela in January. Religious holidays include Muslim celebrations such as Eid el Fitr and Adha, and Hindu festivals such as Kali Puja. All dates vary according to the lunar calendar.

Dhaka: before you go

British citizens need a visit to enter the country, which is issued by the Bangladesh High Commission and is valid for a month. Passports must be valid for the whole duration of the stay.

Vaccines against diphtheria, hepatitis A, tetanus and typhoid should be up-to-date, and it's recommended to get shots against cholera, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis and rabies in certain cases.

Bengali is the main language in Dhaka, but Urdu as well as English are spoken by some people.

The cost of living is very low and meals in restaurants cost around Tk 60. The best areas for upscale restaurants are in Gulshan, Banani and Baridhara.

Dhaka Airport arrival and getting around

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is located about 12 miles north of the city and travellers can take a public bus to Gulistan station from the airport road just outside the airport grounds. Tickets are around Tk 10 and buses run until around 8pm. They are often very crowded so it's not the best option if you have big suitcases. The alternative is taking a taxi, which costs about Tk 400 for a journey lasting approximately 30 minutes. The price should be negotiated if there's no meter.

Accommodation options in Dhaka range from cheap hotels costing about Tk 60 to mid-range hotel rooms at around Tk 4,100. Public transport includes cycle rickshaws for short distances (around Tk 30-50), auto rickshaws (CNGs, about Tk 150-250 for 8 kilometres), taxis (starting at around Tk 25), and buses, which can be really slow. Bus tickets must be bought at the counter before boarding.