Stay Connected in Dhaka
Network coverage, costs, and options
Connectivity Overview
Dhaka's Mobile connectivity has improved dramatically over the past few years, with 4G coverage now reaching most areas of the city and reliable 3G serving as backup. The three major carriers - Grameenphone, Robi, and Banglalink - provide decent coverage across the capital, though data speeds can vary significantly depending on your location and time of day. Traffic congestion affects tower performance during peak hours, so expect slower speeds between 8-10 AM and 6-8 PM. Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer WiFi, but quality varies widely. For travelers, staying connected is essential for navigation (Google Maps works well here), ride-hailing apps like Uber and Pathao, and communication. Having your own Mobile data is practically mandatory since public WiFi is often unreliable or requires local phone verification.
Get Connected Before You Land
We recommend Airalo for peace of mind. Buy your eSIM now and activate it when you arrive—no hunting for SIM card shops, no language barriers, no connection problems. Just turn it on and you're immediately connected in Dhaka.
Network Coverage & Speed
Bangladesh's Mobile infrastructure centers around three main operators. Grameenphone, the largest carrier, offers the most extensive coverage with reliable 4G in central Dhaka, Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi areas. Robi provides competitive speeds and good coverage in business districts, while Banglalink offers budget-friendly options with decent urban coverage. 4G speeds typically range from 5-25 Mbps download in good coverage areas, dropping to 1-5 Mbps on 3G networks. Coverage is excellent in upscale neighborhoods like Gulshan and Uttara, but can be spotty in Old Dhaka's narrow streets. The network handles voice calls well, but data can slow during monsoon season due to infrastructure stress. International roaming works but is expensive. Most carriers use standard GSM frequencies (900/1800 MHz for 2G/3G, 1800/2100 MHz for 4G), so unlocked phones from most countries work fine. Network congestion is common during Eid holidays and major events.
How to Stay Connected
eSIM
eSIM technology works well in Dhaka and offers significant advantages for most travelers. The main benefit is immediate connectivity - you can activate service before landing and have data working as soon as you clear customs. This is invaluable for calling rides, accessing maps, and staying connected during that crucial first hour in a new city. Providers like Airalo offer Bangladesh plans with decent data allowances, typically ranging from $15-30 for 1-3GB valid for 7-30 days. The convenience factor is huge - no language barriers, no hunting for SIM card shops, no passport photocopying, and no dealing with potentially pushy vendors. However, eSIM plans cost roughly 2-3x more than local SIMs for equivalent data. They're perfect for short trips (under 2 weeks) where convenience outweighs cost, but longer stays might justify the local SIM hassle for better rates.
Local SIM Card
Local SIM cards are widely available and significantly cheaper than eSIM options. You can buy them at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (though selection is limited and prices higher), or better yet, at Mobile phone shops throughout the city - particularly around New Market, Gulshan Circle, or any shopping mall. Grameenphone prepaid SIMs cost around 100-200 BDT ($1-2) with various data packages: 1GB for about 100 BDT, 3GB for 250 BDT. You'll need your passport and may need to provide a local contact number (your hotel works). Activation usually takes 10-30 minutes. The process involves some paperwork and basic Bengali/English communication. Recharging is easy through Mobile banking apps like bKash or at countless small shops displaying carrier logos. Tourist-focused SIMs with English customer service are available but harder to find. The main downsides: language barriers, time investment, and the risk of getting overcharged as a foreigner.
Comparison
Local SIMs win on cost - roughly 60-70% cheaper than eSIM options for equivalent data. However, eSIMs dominate on convenience, reliability, and time savings. International roaming is only viable for emergencies due to extreme costs ($10+ per MB). For stays under two weeks, eSIM makes financial sense when you factor in time, taxi fares to SIM shops, and peace of mind. Budget travelers on month-long trips will find local SIMs worthwhile despite the hassle. The sweet spot: eSIM for your first week, then switch to local SIM if staying longer.
Our Recommendations
First-time visitors: Go with eSIM from Airalo without question. You'll land in a chaotic airport environment where having immediate connectivity is worth far more than saving $10-15. Use it to navigate, book rides, and contact hotels while you get oriented. Budget travelers: If you're on an extremely tight budget and staying 3+ weeks, local SIMs make sense - but only if you're comfortable navigating language barriers and spending half a day on setup. For most budget travelers, eSIM's convenience justifies the modest extra cost. Long-term stays (1+ months): Local SIM becomes worthwhile for the cost savings and flexibility to easily top up data. Get settled first, then make the switch. Business travelers: eSIM is your only real option - your time is worth more than the price difference, and you need guaranteed connectivity from the moment you land. The reliability and English-language customer support make it a business expense worth paying.
Our Top Pick: Airalo
For convenience, price, and safety, we recommend Airalo. Purchase your eSIM before your trip and activate it upon arrival—you'll have instant connectivity without the hassle of finding a local shop, dealing with language barriers, or risking being offline when you first arrive. It's the smart, safe choice for staying connected in Dhaka.
Exclusive discounts: 15% off for new customers • 10% off for return customers