What They Are
The University of Asia Pacific (UAP) is a private university in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Established in 1996 under the Private University Act of 1992, it has grown from modest beginnings to offer programs across Engineering, Science, Business, Arts and Humanities, Law, and Pharmacy. Its main campus is at 74/A, Green Road, Farmgate (QS China; StudyBarta).
Ahsan Manzil, known as the Pink Palace, is a 19th-century palace on the banks of the Buriganga River. Formerly the official residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka, it now serves as a national museum.
History
University of Asia Pacific
UAP was established by the University of Asia Pacific Foundation, a non-profit comprising leading educationists and administrators. Its mission was to advance higher education and foster national progress (QS China; Simple Wikipedia). Initially, it offered four-year bachelor’s programs in Computer Science and Business Administration, approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) (StudyBarta). The curriculum later expanded to include Architecture, Civil Engineering, Pharmacy, and other disciplines.
UAP was one of the first private universities established under the 1992 Act and set benchmarks for academic quality, governance, and societal engagement, influencing the development of private higher education in Bangladesh (Simple Wikipedia).
Ahsan Manzil
Ahsan Manzil was constructed in the late 1800s by Nawab Abdul Ghani and later named after Nawab Ahsanullah. Its Indo-Saracenic architecture combines Mughal and European influences. During British rule, the palace played a central role in Dhaka’s social and political life. Its museum now preserves artifacts and photographs from the Nawabi era (Department of Archaeology, Bangladesh; Bangladesh National Museum).
What to See and Explore
UAP’s Academic Programs and Campus
UAP offers nine undergraduate and eight postgraduate programs. The School of Business played a key role in its academic growth and the introduction of MBA and EMBA degrees (UAP School of Business). The university combines liberal education with technical and professional training (Simple Wikipedia).
UAP’s faculties for 2024–2025 are Engineering, Science, Business, Arts and Humanities, Law, and Pharmacy. Departments include Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration, English, and Law.
Key undergraduate degrees include:
- BSc Civil Engineering
- BSc Computer Science & Engineering
- BArch (Architecture)
- BBA (Business Administration)
- BPharm (Pharmacy)
- LLB (Law)
- BA English
Postgraduate programs include:
- MSc Civil Engineering
- MSc Computer Science & Engineering
- MBA
- LLM
- MPharm
UAP is overseen by a Board of Trustees and Academic Council. Faculties are led by deans, while departments manage programs and research. The university follows a semester system: Spring (January), Fall (July), and a shorter Summer session. Undergraduates complete 120–160 credits and postgraduates 36–60 credits (UAP Academic Calendar).
The campus has central and departmental libraries, laboratories, e-learning platforms, and more than 20 student clubs, including debate, robotics, entrepreneurship, and cultural clubs. Counseling, health, and career services are also available.
UAP supports research through dedicated centers and mandatory theses in engineering and architecture. Its industry connections include internships, advisory boards, and regular career fairs. The university also maintains student exchange programs and collaborative research with universities in Asia, Europe, and North America.
Ahsan Manzil’s Museum and Architecture
Visitors can explore Ahsan Manzil’s architecture and museum collections, including artifacts and photographs from the Nawabi era. The palace also hosts cultural exhibitions and programs during national holidays and festivals.
Practical Visiting Information
UAP: Location, Hours, and Access
UAP’s main campus is at 74/A, Green Road, Farmgate, Dhaka, in an area with public transport connections. The university is spread across several rented premises, all described as easily reachable by public transport.
- Weekdays Sunday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Weekends Visits by prior arrangement only
Guided tours for prospective students and guests can be arranged through the admissions office. Tours cover academic buildings, libraries, and student facilities; contact the office in advance to book a slot. The campus visitor information describes UAP as fully accessible, with ramps and elevators in major buildings to support visitors with mobility challenges.
Applicants must have completed higher secondary education. Program-specific requirements and deadlines are available on the official UAP website (UAP Official Website). Admission is competitive and based on academic merit and entrance exams. UAP enrolls more than 7,000 students from across Bangladesh and neighboring countries. Merit- and need-based scholarships are available; details are on the scholarships page.
Ahsan Manzil: Hours, Tickets, and Access
- Open Saturday to Thursday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Closed Fridays and public holidays
- Bangladeshi citizens 30–60 BDT
- Foreign tourists 200 BDT
- Children under 12 Free
Tickets are available at the entrance or online via the Bangladesh National Museum.
Daily guided tours are available in English and Bengali. Audio guides and brochures provide information about the palace’s history and architecture.
Ahsan Manzil is in Shadarghat, Old Dhaka, near the Buriganga River ferry terminal. It is accessible by rickshaw, taxi, or bus from anywhere in the city. Ramps and accessible pathways are available for visitors with disabilities. Parking is limited, and public transport is recommended.
Tips
The UAP admissions office can schedule campus tours during official hours. Public buses, rickshaws, and ride-sharing services serve the Farmgate area.
For Ahsan Manzil, the suggested visiting period is the cooler months, November–February, or early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Photography is allowed without flash in designated areas. Pets are not allowed, except service animals. The palace gift shop sells handicrafts and books.
For current information, tour bookings, and event schedules, consult the official museum website or follow Dhaka’s heritage social media channels. The visitor information also recommends consulting the official websites, downloading the Audiala app, and engaging with related social media platforms.
Nearby Places
Near UAP in Farmgate, visitors can find eateries, local cafes, bookstores, cultural centers, and parks. Banani Lake and Gulshan Lake Park are also listed among nearby places.
Ahsan Manzil’s nearby attractions include:
- Lalbagh Fort 17th-century Mughal fort complex
- Dhakeshwari Temple Bangladesh’s national temple
- Sadarghat Riverfront Bustling river port and boat tours
FAQ
University of Asia Pacific
How do I apply for undergraduate programs?
Applicants must have completed higher secondary education. Program-specific requirements and deadlines are on the official UAP website.
Are campus tours available?
Yes. Contact the admissions office to schedule a tour during official hours.
Does UAP offer scholarships?
Yes. Merit- and need-based scholarships are available; check the scholarships page for details.
How accessible is the campus?
UAP provides ramps and elevators for visitors with disabilities.
What transport options are nearby?
Public buses, rickshaws, and ride-sharing services serve the Farmgate area.
Ahsan Manzil
Is Ahsan Manzil suitable for children?
Yes, with adult supervision in some exhibit areas.
Are pets allowed?
No, except service animals.
Is parking available?
Parking is limited; public transport is recommended.
Can I purchase souvenirs?
Yes. The gift shop offers handicrafts and books.
