Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), in Kurmitola, is Bangladesh’s largest and busiest airport and the country’s principal air gateway. It is roughly 17–18 kilometers north of Dhaka’s city center and connects Bangladesh with major regions including South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Millions of passengers travel through the airport each year. Its infrastructure is expanding, most notably through the addition of a third terminal.
History
Previously known as Dacca International Airport and later Zia International Airport, HSIA was inaugurated in 1980, replacing the earlier Tejgaon Airport. It was renamed in 2010 in honor of the 14th-century Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Jalal. The airport has since expanded to accommodate growing passenger and cargo volumes.
What to see and airport facilities
Terminals and amenities
HSIA comprises three terminals. Terminals 1 and 2 handle international flights; Terminal 3 is described as focusing on domestic routes and, upon completion, will significantly expand the airport’s capacity.
Facilities include banking and currency exchange services, duty-free shops, dining options, prayer rooms, business lounges and conference facilities, and free Wi-Fi with variable coverage. Accessibility features are available for disabled travelers; advance arrangements are advised. Parking includes an open car park and multi-storey parking near Terminal 2.
Third terminal expansion
Construction of the third terminal began in December 2019 in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Completion was targeted for early 2026 (Construction Review Online; TBS News; BSS News).
The project cost is approximately Tk21,300 crore (~$2.5 billion), funded in part by a significant JICA loan, with the remainder provided by the Bangladeshi government. Major contractors include Mitsubishi, Fujita, and Samsung C&T (Airport Technology). The 230,000-square-meter terminal is designed to meet global standards, with an emphasis on efficiency and sustainability (Travel Mate).
Planned facilities include:
- 115 check-in counters and 15 self-service kiosks
- 66 departure and 59 arrival immigration desks, plus VIP counters
- 27 baggage screening machines, 40 security scanners, and 11 body scanners
- 12 boarding bridges, expandable to 26
- 16 baggage carousels
- A VVIP complex with separate checkpoints and lounges
- A three-story car park for 1,350 vehicles
- A modern cargo terminal with capacity of up to 500,000 tonnes annually
- Direct expressway and railway tunnel links
- A dedicated Hajj pilgrim tunnel from Ashkona Hajj Camp
Technological features include automated check-in and passport control, smart security and baggage-handling systems, real-time flight and terminal information, and energy-efficient systems. LEED certification is in progress.
The terminal is planned to have step-free access, elevators, tactile guidance paths, and assistance for disabled travelers. Shuttle, taxi, bus, and railway connections are planned directly to the terminal.
The project created over 5,000 construction jobs and is associated with 6,000 ongoing airport jobs (Dhaka Post). It is also expected to boost tourism, business travel, and agricultural exports, and to enhance regional connectivity in line with national development priorities (Travel Mate). Its planned visitor experience includes faster processing, more comfortable lounges, expanded dining and shopping, efficient baggage handling, and facilities supporting Hajj pilgrim flows. Terminal-operation updates are available via the CAAB website.
Practical visiting information
Hours and tickets
HSIA is open 24/7 for international and domestic flights. Airline check-in counters generally open 3–4 hours before scheduled departures, though hours vary by airline; confirm details with your carrier.
Tickets can be booked online through airline websites or authorized travel agencies. On-site counters for major airlines, including Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines, and Novoair, are also available. Advance purchase is recommended to avoid last-minute issues.
Transportation and airport access
- Road The airport is accessible via Mymensingh Highway. The drive from downtown Dhaka takes about 50 minutes, subject to traffic.
- Public buses Several routes serve the airport. The main bus station is near Airport Station Parking (West), about 1 km from the terminals. Bus fares are paid on board.
- Rail Airport Railway Station (Biman Bondor), directly opposite the airport, connects to city rail lines. Metro rail links the airport to Kamalapur Station, a journey of about 30 minutes; metro tickets are available at the station.
- Taxis and ride-sharing Licensed taxis and services such as Uber and Pathao operate at the airport. Ride-sharing services pick up from the International Arrivals area; confirm pickup points.
- Private transfers and hotel shuttles Private transfers can be booked in advance. Many nearby hotels offer shuttles; confirm in advance.
- Car rental International and local agencies operate at the airport. Rental with a driver is an option for those unfamiliar with Dhaka’s traffic.
- Rickshaws and CNGs These are suited to short local trips; negotiate fares in advance.
Visitor essentials
Visa on Arrival is available to eligible nationalities with the required documents. SIM cards are sold at the airport, and registration requires a passport. ATMs and currency exchange counters are available; the local currency is the Bangladeshi Taka (৳). Basic English is spoken, and Bengali addresses can help outside the airport. Luggage storage is available for short-term use. Assistance is available upon request.
Tips
Safety and security
Use anti-theft bags and keep valuables secure. Avoid isolated areas after dark, use only licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps, and stay alert to scams and unofficial vendors. Women should dress modestly and exercise extra caution at night.
Health and practical advice
Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid tap water. Carry comprehensive travel insurance and ensure your visa and passport are valid before arrival. The recommended periods for comfortable weather are January–March and October–December.
Airport services and cultural sensitivity
Inform your airline in advance if you require disability assistance. Business facilities are available in airport lounges and nearby hotels. Bangladesh is predominantly Muslim; dress modestly and respect local customs. Prayer rooms are available in all terminals.
Aviation enthusiasts
HSIA is a popular spot for plane spotting, though photography of military aircraft is discouraged.
Nearby places
Lalbagh Fort
Lalbagh Fort, also known as Fort Aurangabad, is an incomplete 17th-century Mughal fortification in Old Dhaka, initiated by Subahdar Muhammad Azam Shah. Its features include the Diwan-i-Aam, a mosque, and Pari Bibi’s tomb, and its architecture blends Persian, Islamic, and Bengali styles.
The fort is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets cost BDT 20 for adults and BDT 200 for foreign visitors; children under 12 enter free. Guided tours are available for an extra fee. Wheelchair access is provided at the main entrances, and assistance is available upon request.
The site is accessible by public transport, taxi, rickshaw, or ride-sharing. Nearby attractions include Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace), Star Mosque, and Sadarghat Riverfront.
Wear comfortable shoes, as paths are uneven. Visiting early can help avoid crowds and heat. Photography is allowed for personal use; commercial photography requires prior permission. Dress modestly out of respect for the site’s heritage. Outside food is discouraged, though refreshments are available nearby. The site welcomes families, and security is present.
More information: Bangladesh Department of Archaeology - Lalbagh Fort, Dhaka Tourism Official Website, and TripAdvisor Reviews for Lalbagh Fort.
Frequently asked questions
Is the third terminal open 24/7?
The terminal information describes it as open 24/7, with services generally available from 4:00 AM to midnight.
How can I buy airline tickets?
Book online, use airline counters, or purchase through authorized agents.
What accessibility support is available?
The third terminal is described as fully accessible. Inform your airline if you need assistance; airport assistance is also available upon request.
What transport options serve the airport?
Options include road, rail, expressway, shuttle, bus, taxi, and dedicated tunnels. Taxis and ride-sharing services operate at the airport.
Are there special facilities for Hajj pilgrims?
Yes. The third-terminal project includes a dedicated tunnel to Ashkona Hajj Camp and special facilities to support Hajj pilgrim flows.
How far is the airport from downtown Dhaka?
It is about 17 km from downtown, though travel time varies with traffic.
Can I buy public transport tickets at the airport?
Metro rail tickets are available at the station; bus fares are paid on board.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Free Wi-Fi is available, but coverage may vary.
