Bangladesh Prepares To Roll Out E-Visas, Targeting Launch By Year’s End

Published on July 29, 2024

Delays in visa issuance have significantly impacted travelers and tourists on both sides of the India-Bangladesh border, causing considerable inconvenience. To address this issue, the government of Bangladesh, under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is planning to implement an online E-Visa system by the end of the year. This initiative follows a global trend where countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and soon Vietnam and Indonesia, are offering visa-free access to boost tourism.

The government of Bangladesh is currently in the initial phase of rolling out an e-Visa initiative, with the final list of benefiting countries still undecided. In a conversation with The Statesman, Sanjeeda Sharmin, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, revealed that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed has spearheaded several strategies to invigorate the tourism industry. The Padma Setu has already emerged as a pivotal development. Moreover, the government has crafted a new Draft Tourism Master Plan, encompassing 14 thematic projects across 8 zones and identifying 1,498 significant sites.

Bangladesh is undertaking a significant overhaul of its major airports, with the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka receiving a transformative renovation. This project aims to emulate the modern design and functionality of Singapore’s renowned Changi Airports. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, this renovation is poised to revolutionize the country’s international aviation landscape. Meanwhile, the Cox’s Bazar domestic airport is also undergoing extensive renovations, with an expected completion date in 2025. These developments are set to enhance both domestic and international air connectivity, providing a substantial boost to tourism in the region.

The government of Bangladesh owns two luxurious five-star hotels, complementing the thousands of other accommodations available throughout the country. There is also a strong emphasis on developing spiritual tourism destinations. Indian tourists frequently visit St. Martin’s Island, a coral island, between November and April. Additionally, the Haor region, a wetland ecosystem in northeastern Bangladesh, attracts many visitors during the monsoon season. The Sylhet and Ratargul forests are other popular destinations, drawing significant tourist interest due to their natural beauty and unique ecosystems.

Rajshahi, known as the mango capital of Bangladesh, hosts a popular Mango Festival, celebrating the region’s rich mango culture. This year, the festival took place on July 6 and 7, attracting numerous visitors eager to experience the diverse varieties of mangoes the area offers. The festival is a key event in promoting Rajshahi as a top destination for fruit enthusiasts.

In Dhaka, the Bangladesh Tourism Board organizes the renowned Bangladesh Food Festival, a celebration of the country’s rich culinary heritage. This event showcases authentic Bangladeshi cuisine, drawing food lovers from around the world. The festival is a testament to the country’s vibrant gastronomy tourism, offering a unique opportunity to experience the diverse flavors and traditional dishes of Bangladesh.

These initiatives, from airport renovations to cultural festivals, are part of a broader strategy to enhance Bangladesh’s tourism appeal. By improving infrastructure and promoting unique cultural experiences, Bangladesh is positioning itself as a more attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists. The government’s commitment to developing tourism is evident in these projects, which aim to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.