British High Commission Hosts Event to Promote UK Investment in Bangladesh’s Tourism Sector

Dhaka, 30 September 2026 – To mark World Tourism Day 2026, British High Commission Dhaka hosted a reception to explore opportunities for increased investment in Bangladesh’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Supported by Mana Bay and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), the event highlighted the UK’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s economic growth through trade, investment and business partnerships, while encouraging dialogue on the practical steps needed to strengthen the country’s tourism sector and attract further international investment.

The reception was attended by M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, alongside representatives from government, business, aviation, tourism and hospitality sectors.

Speaking at the reception, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke said:
“Bangladesh has enormous tourism potential. During my time here, I have had the opportunity to travel across the country and experience first-hand its rich culture, heritage, natural beauty and hospitality.

“The UK wants to play its part to boost tourism here by encouraging investment, strengthening commercial partnerships and bringing together businesses and institutions that can create lasting economic value for both countries.”

The reception showcased examples of long-term investor confidence in Bangladesh, including the story of Mana Bay, a British-backed investment in Bangladesh’s tourism and hospitality sector. Building on a family business legacy that began more than two decades ago in Bangladesh’s textile industry, the group has expanded into tourism and hospitality with a long-term vision for the sector. With more than USD 250 million invested in the development, Mana Bay has introduced one of Bangladesh’s largest integrated tourism destinations, including the successful Mana Bay Water Park and the recently soft-launched 95-room Mana Bay Resort.

Sasheen Hasan, Managing Director of Mana Bay, said: “Our family’s journey in Bangladesh began by creating world-class products for global markets. Today, we are proud to help create world-class experiences in Bangladesh. Our investment reflects our confidence in the country’s future and in the enormous potential of its tourism and hospitality sector.”

Ashwani Nayar, Area General Manager, Southwest Asia, IHG & Cluster General Manager, InterContinental Dhaka and Crowne Plaza Dhaka Airport said: “As a UK-headquartered global hospitality company, IHG sees significant potential in strengthening tourism connections between the UK and Bangladesh. Our decision to establish our Southwest Asia Area Office in Bangladesh, together with our recent strategic engagement with the Chair and Board of UKBTAA, reflects our confidence in the market and our commitment to building partnerships that create mutual value for both countries. As the largest international hotel operator in Bangladesh, and with the recent addition of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Airport and the upcoming InterContinental Dhaka Airport at United Terminal, we believe IHG is uniquely positioned to help drive the next chapter of Bangladesh’s tourism and hospitality growth—within an emerging ecosystem anchored by the new Airport Third Terminal.”

Bangladesh has much to offer visitors, from its rich culture and heritage to its unique natural beauty and diverse culinary traditions. Unlocking this potential can help drive economic growth, create jobs, and generate opportunities for communities across the country.

Photo Caption: British High Commissioner Sarah Cooke and Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, with representatives from Mana Bay and Crowne Plaza Dhaka Airport by IHG at the British High Commission’s reception.