Digital Nomad Life in Dhaka, Bangladesh

"Expats in Dhaka often join clubs and activities such as the Dhaka Expat Club, which organizes events and activities for expats to meet and socialize. Other popular activities include sports clubs, such as cricket and football, as well as language classes and cultural activities. Expats can also meet people through networking events, such as the Dhaka Expat Network, which hosts regular meetups and events. Additionally, expats can meet people through online forums and social media groups, such as the Dhaka Expat Facebook group. Finally, expats can meet people through their workplace, as many companies in Dhaka have expat-friendly policies and offer social activities for their employees," said one expat in Dhaka.

"Living in Dhaka as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is full of vibrant culture, friendly locals, and plenty of opportunities for exploration. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury apartments to budget-friendly guesthouses. The city is well-connected with reliable public transportation, making it easy to get around. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore, as well as a variety of cultural attractions. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the city's low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget," explained one expat living in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

"Basically my company decided. All expats lived in Gulshan area so we went for same. Baridhara seemed nicer but it was more expensive too. Now they have started construction on high buildings everywhere in both Gulshan and Baridhara and it is quite tough to live in these areas. In a few years these areas will not be so called residential anymore. My company used an agent to see apartments," remarked one member in Dhaka.

"Finding a place to live in Dhaka can be a daunting task. The best way to start is by researching the different neighborhoods and areas of the city. You can look for listings online, or ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place that meets your needs. Once you have narrowed down your search, it is important to visit the area in person to get a better feel for the neighborhood and to make sure it is a good fit for you," explained one expat living in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

"Before retiring in Dhaka, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is relatively low compared to other countries. It is important to research the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Expats should also be aware of the political situation in the country, as it can be volatile at times. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Dhaka, as it may not be up to the same standards as in other countries. Finally, expats should be aware of the climate in Dhaka, which can be hot and humid for much of the year," said one expat who made the move to Dhaka.

"Expats in Dhaka appreciate the hospitality of the local people, the vibrant culture, and the delicious food. They also enjoy the city's rich history and the many cultural attractions, such as the National Museum, the Ahsan Manzil Palace, and the Lalbagh Fort. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's diverse religious and ethnic communities, which make it a truly unique and vibrant place to live," said one expat who made the move to Dhaka.

"Expats in Dhaka often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken. Additionally, the traffic and pollution can be overwhelming, and the heat and humidity can be difficult to adjust to. The cultural norms and expectations can also be difficult to navigate, as they are quite different from those in many Western countries. Finally, the lack of access to certain amenities and services can be a challenge for expats, as many of the things they are used to may not be available in Dhaka," remarked one member in Dhaka.

"It is not possible to insist and want every thing to meet your expectations, rather a lot of acceptance and compromise, and precautions on my part becomes necessary. It is necessary to accept and understand that it is a majority-Muslim country and most of the populace put their faith at the disposal of god and normally just try their best in getting the work done for daily survival, there is no benchmark except in the higher hierachy of MNCs, and even then that will be set lower say compare with a country like Singapore or HK," explained one expat living in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

"If you plan to stay in Dhaka for a while, you will need to obtain a valid visa from the Bangladesh Embassy or High Commission in your home country. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa, such as a student visa, work visa, or business visa. Additionally, you may need to apply for a residence permit or a work permit, depending on the type of visa you have. You may also need to provide proof of financial stability, such as a bank statement, to obtain the necessary documents," remarked one member in Dhaka.

"No, I did not. However, it is important to note that I come from a multi religious , multi-racial environment (country of Singapore), and have been exposed to Islamic practices and culture, hence it may have been easier for me," said one person in Dhaka.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Dhaka. It is considered impolite to show public displays of affection, so it is best to avoid kissing or hugging in public. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious customs, such as avoiding eating pork or drinking alcohol in public. It is also important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to greetings, as handshakes are not always the norm. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local language, as English is not widely spoken in Dhaka," said one expat who made the move to Dhaka.

"Healthcare services in Dhaka, are a mix of public and private facilities, with the public sector being the primary provider of healthcare. The city is home to several government-run hospitals, including Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Sir Salimullah Medical College Hospital, and Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, which offer a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. However, these public hospitals often face challenges such as overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of medical professionals. In addition to public hospitals, Dhaka also has numerous private hospitals and clinics that cater to the healthcare needs of the population. These private facilities, such as United Hospital, Apollo Hospitals Dhaka, and Square Hospitals, generally offer better infrastructure, advanced medical equipment, and a higher standard of care compared to public hospitals. However, the cost of treatment in private hospitals can be significantly higher, making them less accessible to the majority of the population. Primary healthcare services in Dhaka are provided through community clinics, urban primary healthcare centers, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). These facilities offer basic healthcare services, including maternal and child health, family planning, and immunization programs. NGOs play a crucial role in providing healthcare services to the urban poor and marginalized communities in Dhaka. Despite the availability of healthcare services in Dhaka, the city faces several challenges in ensuring quality healthcare for its residents. These challenges include a lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure, a shortage of skilled medical professionals, and limited access to quality healthcare for the urban poor. Additionally, the rapid urbanization and population growth in Dhaka have put immense pressure on the existing healthcare system, further exacerbating these challenges," said one foreigner in Dhaka.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Dhaka, often appreciate the low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budgets and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. They also enjoy the rich culture and history of the city, with its vibrant markets, historical sites, and colorful festivals. The local cuisine is another highlight, offering a wide variety of delicious and affordable dishes. The friendly and hospitable nature of the Bangladeshi people is another aspect that expats and digital nomads appreciate. Locals are often eager to help and make newcomers feel welcome, which can make the transition to living in Dhaka easier. However, there are also several challenges that expats and digital nomads face while living in Dhaka. One of the main issues is the heavy traffic and poor infrastructure, which can make commuting and getting around the city difficult and time-consuming. Air pollution is another concern, as the city often experiences poor air quality due to vehicle emissions and industrial pollution. The lack of reliable and fast internet can also be frustrating for digital nomads who rely on a stable connection for their work. Additionally, frequent power outages can disrupt daily life and work schedules. Another challenge is the language barrier, as not everyone in Dhaka speaks English. This can make it difficult for expats and digital nomads to communicate and navigate the city, especially when dealing with bureaucracy and official paperwork. Lastly, safety and security can be a concern in Dhaka, with incidents of petty crime and occasional political unrest. Expats and digital nomads should take precautions to ensure their personal safety and stay informed about the local situation," said one member in Dhaka.