(December 12, 2021)

Location: Bangladesh

Event:  Holiday Security Alert

During the holiday season, U.S. citizens should practice sound personal security procedures.  Please be aware of your surroundings, review or establish a personal security plan, monitor local media for updates, and keep your mobile phones charged and accessible in case of an emergency.

As a precautionary measure, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) will implement additional security measures in select locations from Christmas Eve (December 24) through January 3.  U.S. citizens should expect:

1. Churches, houses of worship, shopping centers, and transportation hubs will have an increased police presence due to the notable symbolism of Christmas and New Year’s Eve as high-profile Western holidays.
2. Vehicle access to the Diplomatic Enclave (Baridhara, Gulshan, and Banani) will be more heavily scrutinized, particularly on New Year’s Eve (December 31) after 8:00 p.m.
3. Local police may set up roadblocks outside of and leading to the Diplomatic Enclave to maintain order and manage traffic.  U.S. citizens should plan accordingly.
4. Outdoor celebrations and parties are generally prohibited on building rooftops.
5. Local law prohibits the sale and/or use of alcoholic beverages to Bangladeshis.

Assistance:

• U.S. Embassy Dhaka, Bangladesh
  • +880 2 5566-2000
  • DhakaACS@state.gov
• State Department – Consular Affairs
  • 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
• Bangladesh Country Information page
• Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts.
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