ABOUT BANGLADESH
GENERAL INFO
- Country: Bangladesh is a sovereign nation in South Asia, bordered by India and Myanmar.
- Capital: Dhaka — a vibrant megacity and cultural hub of South Asia.
- Language: Bengali (Bangla) is the official language; English is widely spoken in hotels, hospitals, and business districts.
- Currency: Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). ATMs are widely available in Dhaka.
- Time Zone: BST — Bangladesh Standard Time (UTC +6).
- Electricity: 220–240 V, 50 Hz. Type C and Type D plugs are common.
TRANSPORT
- Airport: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC), Dhaka — 25–40 min from BICC by road.
- Ride-hailing: Pathao, Shohoz, and Uber operate across Dhaka.
- CNG Auto-rickshaws: Abundant and metered. Agree on fare before boarding.
- Hotel shuttles: Most partner hotels offer airport transfers — check with your hotel on booking.
- Metro Rail (MRT Line 6): Connects Uttara to Agargaon — closest station to BICC is Agargaon.
- Conference shuttle: A complimentary shuttle will run between designated partner hotels and BICC during conference days.
CONNECTIVITY
- Conference Wi-Fi: Free high-speed Wi-Fi (SSID: APASL2026) is available throughout BICC. Credentials will be in your welcome kit.
- SIM Cards: Local SIM (Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink) available at the airport and convenience stores. Daily data packs start from BDT 30.
- eSIM: Major international eSIM providers (Airalo, Holafly) offer Bangladesh data plans — recommended for short stays.
- Mobile Coverage: 4G is available across Dhaka; 5G pilots are underway in city centres.
VISA
- On-Arrival Visa: Citizens of many countries are eligible for a visa on arrival at DAC airport. Check the MOFA Bangladesh portal for the latest list.
- e-Visa: Apply online at evisa.immigration.gov.bd at least 10 days before travel. Processing takes 3–5 business days.
- SAARC nations: Generally eligible for no-fee or reduced-fee visas.
- Invitation Letters: Delegates requiring official invitation letters for visa applications should email the secretariat at visa@apasl2026.org with their registration confirmation.
WEATHER
- Season: October falls in the post-monsoon / early autumn season in Bangladesh.
- Temperature: Pleasant 24–32 °C (75–90 °F) during the day; cooler evenings around 20 °C.
- Rainfall: October is generally dry, though occasional light showers are possible. Carry a compact umbrella.
- Humidity: Moderate (50–70%). Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended.
- Sunrise / Sunset: Sunrise ≈ 06:00, Sunset ≈ 17:40 (BST).
CULTURAL ETIQUETTE
- Greetings: "Assalamu Alaikum" is the common greeting. A nod or slight bow is appropriate when meeting elders.
- Dress: Modest, smart-casual attire is recommended for sessions. Bangladesh is a predominantly Muslim-majority country — avoid shorts in public venues.
- Dining: Halal food is the norm. Excellent vegetarian and seafood options abound. Alcohol is available in select hotels and licensed restaurants.
- Photography: Always seek permission before photographing individuals, particularly in rural or religious settings.
- Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated — 5–10% in restaurants; BDT 50–100 for porters.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
- National Emergency: 999 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
- Police: 100
- Fire Brigade: 102
- Nearest Hospital to BICC: Dhaka Medical College Hospital — +880 2-5566-6200
- National Poison Control Centre: +880 2-8125-4175
- Conference Medical Desk: Available at BICC Registration Counter, Hall 1.
- Conference Secretariat: +880 17XX-XXXXXX (number in your welcome kit)
