Bangladesh has experienced a steady decline in foreign tourist arrivals over the past two years, impacted by political instability, security concerns, and shortcomings in infrastructure and services. Data compiled by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics from the Special Branch of Police and Bangladesh Bank indicate that the country welcomed 239,400 foreign visitors in the first half of 2026, marking a nearly 20 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2025.

This downturn follows a downward trend that began after 2023, when Bangladesh received over 667,000 foreign tourists. In 2025, the number of foreign arrivals dropped to 585,145, representing a 4 percent decline from the previous year.

Industry representatives attribute the decline in part to Bangladesh’s limited readiness to accommodate international travelers despite its abundant natural attractions. HM Hakim Ali, president of the United Tourism Stakeholders’ Society of Bangladesh (UTSSOB), noted that the drop in inbound tourists is affecting foreign currency earnings, particularly given that approximately two million Bangladeshis travel abroad annually.

Political unrest and security challenges have significantly contributed to this decrease, with several foreign embassies issuing travel advisories on Bangladesh that remain active. Experts in the sector have identified the need for improvements in essential areas such as transportation infrastructure, communication networks, sanitation facilities, hospitality services, and the preservation of tourist sites. Recommendations also include enhanced digital marketing, streamlined visa procedures such as e-visas, adoption of technologies like self-check-in and cashless payments, improved inter-agency coordination, reinforced security measures, and greater engagement with local communities.

In response, the Bangladeshi government is increasingly incorporating digital technologies and artificial intelligence into its tourism development strategy. The initiative aims to revitalize the sector and bolster its contribution to the national economy, with a target to raise tourism’s share of gross domestic product from the current 2-3 percent to 7 percent in the coming years.