Bangladesh attracted some 7,00,000 tourists in 2025 compared 655,000 tourists posting some 7.00 per cent growth, according to rough estimate of Bangladesh Parjaton Corporation
According to the Bangladesh Tourism Board (BTB), 621,131 tourists visited Bangladesh in 2019.
Though the latter half of the 2024 witnessed turbulent political situation hurting the turn-out of the tourists, the year 2025 looked better reflecting positive turn–out of the tourists, said a member of Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB).
Political unrest, poor civic amenities and shaky law and order situation stood in the way of promoting tourism sector in Bangladesh, said a member of TOAB
The caretaker government took some steps in restoring law and order situation in 2025 and a number of international travelers, involved in the election process and human rights, visited Bangladesh, said officials of Election Commission and international development organizations. According to the Bangladesh Tourism Board (BTB), 655,000 foreign tourists visited the country. In 2024, marking a modest recovery from pandemic-era lows but falling short of 2019’s pre-pandemic figures of 621,131 visitors.
The tourism sector in Bangladesh weathered a difficult year in 2024, plagued by political instability, environmental calamities and security concerns in popular destinations.
Bangladesh, known for its archaeological treasures, historic mosques and natural wonders such as the world’s longest natural beach and lush tea gardens, holds immense potential for tourism.
Yet, the sector remains underdeveloped due to inadequate infrastructure and the absence of a comprehensive master plan for tourism development.
The 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index by the World Economic Forum ranked Bangladesh 109th out of 119 economies, placing it last among 19 Asia-Pacific countries.
Political instability, including internet blackouts during July’s student protests and the uncertainty following Sheikh Hasina’s resignation on August 5, further disrupted the sector.
Md Rafeuzzaman, former president of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (Toab), argued: “Approximately 10,000 people depend on tourism for their livelihoods. Restricting access to Saint Martin’s Island jeopardises these livelihoods and investments.”
Toab has called for a balanced approach that safeguards both the environment and tourism. “We are committed to environmental protection, but not at the cost of shutting down tourism,” Rafeuzzaman added.
The tourism contributes 3.02% to Bangladesh’s GDP.
Recognizing its significance, the National Industrial Policy 2022 includes tourism among 12 key sub-sectors driving employment.
Efforts are underway to finalise a Tourism Master Plan, which aims to attract investments and deliver visible improvements. Nasreen Jahan expressed optimism, stating that these initiatives could transform the sector into a significant driver of economic growth.
Tour operators remain hopeful that the interim government will restore stability, enabling the sector’s recovery.
A stable environment is essential to rebuild confidence among domestic and international travellers, they said.
Industry leaders emphasized that addressing political, infrastructural, and environmental challenges could unlock the tourism sector’s full potential, turning it into a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s economic development.
