The pilot announces, “Cabin crew, prepare for landing.” As the wheels touch the tarmac at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, your adventure in Bangladesh officially begins.
For first-time visitors, landing in Dhaka can be an overwhelming sensory overload. For returning expats, it’s a nostalgic chaotic hug. To help you navigate the noise and start your trip smoothly, here is your step-by-step guide to the first hour after touchdown.
1. The “Humidity Hug”
The moment you step off the plane and into the jet bridge, the first thing you will notice is the air. It is warm, humid, and thick. Unlike the dry cold of Frankfurt or Berlin, Dhaka’s air embraces you immediately. Take a deep breath—you are home (or in the tropics)!
2. Immigration & Visa on Arrival
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For Foreign Passports: If you are a German or European citizen eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA), do not get in the regular line. Look for the “Visa on Arrival” counter (usually on the right side). You will need to pay the fee (around $51 USD, cash is best) and show your hotel booking and return ticket.
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For NVR (No Visa Required): If you have the “No Visa Required” seal on your passport, head straight to the dedicated counters. They are usually faster than the general tourist lines.
3. Baggage Claim: Patience is Key
Dhaka airport is busy. Baggage handling can sometimes take 30 to 60 minutes.
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Tip: While waiting, connect to the airport’s free Wi-Fi (it usually requires a mobile number for an OTP) or just observe the crowd. If you need a trolley, grab one quickly—they disappear fast!
4. Money & SIM Cards (Do this BEFORE exiting)
Once you have your bags, do not walk out yet.
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Money: Exchange a small amount of Euros/Dollars into Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) at the airport exchange booths. You will need cash for tips or small purchases.
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Internet: Look for the Grameenphone or Robi booths inside the arrivals hall. Buy a SIM card here. Having internet immediately is a lifesaver for checking maps or calling your hotel.
5. The “Wall of People”
This is the most famous sight at Dhaka Airport. When you walk through the final green channel doors, you will see hundreds of people waiting behind the barriers.
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Don’t Panic: It looks chaotic, but it is just families waiting for their loved ones.
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Ignore the Touts: People may approach you offering “Taxi, Taxi” or “Hotel.” A polite but firm “No, thank you” is enough. Keep walking.
6. Getting to Your Hotel (The Safe Way)
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Option A (Best): Hotel Pick-up. If your hotel offers a shuttle, use it. It is the safest and most stress-free option.
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Option B: Uber. Yes, Uber works perfectly in Dhaka! Connect to the internet and order an Uber. The designated pick-up point is usually a bit of a walk to the multi-story car park area, but the app will guide you.
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Option C: Rental Counter. There are official car rental booths inside the terminal. They are more expensive than Uber but safer than random street taxis.
7. The Final Welcome: Dhaka Traffic
As you leave the airport area, you will meet the true celebrity of Bangladesh: The Traffic. A 10km ride might take 20 minutes, or it might take 2 hours. Don’t stress. Look out the window. Watch the colorful rickshaws, the painted trucks, and the vibrant life on the streets.
Welcome to Dhaka. The chaos is part of the charm.
