Rich infrastructure, technology key to boosting BD’s tourism: Minister

Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has stressed the need to improve tourism infrastructure, ensure quality services and harness modern technology to promote Bangladesh as an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists.

He made the remarks while speaking at the Bangladesh Tourism Award 2026 ceremony held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Dhaka on Saturday. 

Bangladesh Tourism Board (BTB) honoured 16 individuals and organisations for their outstanding contributions to the country’s tourism sector as part of the national celebrations marking World Tourism Day.

Minister Millat emphasised the importance of coordinated initiatives involving both the government and private sector to develop the tourism industry.

He said Bangladesh has enormous potential to expand its tourism sector, given its natural beauty, cultural heritage, archaeological sites, rivers, beaches and diverse local traditions.

The minister also underscored the need to make greater use of modern technologies and innovative approaches to improve tourist services and promote destinations at home and abroad.

The awards ceremony was organised in line with this year’s World Tourism Day theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” highlighting the growing role of digital technology and artificial intelligence in transforming the global tourism industry. 

The BTB said the awards were introduced to recognise excellence, innovation and sustainable practices across different segments of Bangladesh’s tourism industry.

The 16 award categories covered hotels, tour operators, tourism technology, sustainable tourism, amusement parks, homestays, tourist vessels, tour guides, tourism content creation, women and youth entrepreneurship, MICE tourism and tourism journalism.

InterContinental Dhaka received the award for Best Five-Star Hotel, while Hotel Agrabad was recognised as the Best Four-Star Hotel. Hansa-A Premium Residences received the award for Best Three-Star Hotel.

Bengal Tours Limited was named Best Inbound Tour Operator, while ShareTrip Ltd received the award for Best Domestic Tour Operator.