Do People in Dhaka Speak English?

If you’re planning a trip to Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, you might be wondering if it’s necessary to learn Bengali or if people in Dhaka speak English. This is a common question among tourists and expats who are planning a visit to this vibrant city. In this blog post, we’ll explore the language situation in Dhaka and whether or not English is spoken widely.

Official Language in Dhaka

The official language of Bangladesh is Bengali or Bangla, as it’s known locally. This means that all official documents, government proceedings, and educational institutions use this language. Bengali is an Indo-Aryan language that is spoken by over 230 million people worldwide, including in West Bengal and Tripura in India.

English as a Second Language

While Bengali is the official language of Dhaka, English is widely spoken as a second language. Bangladesh was a British colony until 1947, and English has remained an important language in Bangladesh. Its status as an international language means that many people in Dhaka learn English in school, and it’s widely used in business and commerce.

English Proficiency in Dhaka

According to the EF English Proficiency Index, Bangladesh ranks 52nd out of 100 countries in terms of English proficiency. This means that while English is widespread in Bangladesh, it’s not necessarily spoken by everyone in Dhaka. The index shows that people in Bangladesh have a moderate level of English proficiency, which means that they can understand and communicate in English but may struggle with complex conversations or advanced grammar.

English Speakers in Dhaka

English is particularly prevalent in the larger cities of Bangladesh, such as Dhaka. It’s not uncommon to find people who speak some level of English, particularly in tourist areas and among professionals. However, it’s important to note that not everyone in Dhaka speaks English, particularly in rural areas or among older generations who may not have had access to English education.

Tips for Communicating in Dhaka

If you’re visiting Dhaka and don’t speak Bengali, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Here are a few tips to help you communicate effectively:- Learn some basic Bengali phrases – Even if you’re not fluent in Bengali, learning a few basic phrases such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “goodbye” can go a long way in showing respect and building rapport with locals.- Find an interpreter – If you’re conducting business or need to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak English, consider hiring an interpreter to translate for you.- Use a translation app – There are many translation apps available that can help you communicate in real-time, such as Google Translate or iTranslate.- Speak slowly and clearly – If you do need to communicate in English, speak slowly and clearly to make it easier for the other person to understand you.

Conclusion

While Bengali is the official language of Dhaka, English is widely spoken as a second language. Many people in Dhaka learn English in school, and it’s used in business and commerce. However, not everyone in Dhaka speaks English, particularly in rural areas or among older generations. By learning some basic Bengali phrases or using a translation app, you can communicate effectively with locals and enjoy your visit to Dhaka.

An Insider’s Guide to Dhaka for Tourists

Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh, located in South Asia. With a population of over 21 million people, it is known as one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Dhaka is a city rich in culture and history, with many exciting attractions to discover. The city has a lot to offer tourists, from dining spots to cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

1. Lalbagh Fort: Built-in 1678, this fort is located in the old part of Dhaka and is a must-visit for history buffs.
2. Ahsan Manzil: Also known as the Pink Palace, this stunning palace was the residence of the Nawab of Dhaka. It is now a museum showcasing the history of the Nawabs.
3. National Museum of Bangladesh: For an in-depth look at the history and culture of Bangladesh, this museum should be on your list.
4. Dhaka University: Take a stroll around the beautiful campus of Dhaka University, one of the oldest universities in Bangladesh.

Dining Spots

1. Biryani: Biryani is a popular dish in Dhaka, and there are many places you can try it. Some of the best spots include Star Biryani and Haji Biriyani.
2. Street Food: For an authentic Dhaka experience, try the street food. From samosas to jhalmuri, there are plenty of options to choose from.
3. Fine Dining: For a more upscale experience, head to Pan Pacific Sonargaon or Le Meridien Dhaka for delicious food and stunning views.

Cultural Experiences

1. Dhaka Art Summit: This biennial art festival showcases contemporary art from around the world.
2. Rickshaw Ride: Take a ride in a traditional rickshaw to experience the city like a local.
3. Boat Ride on Buriganga River: Take a boat ride on the Buriganga River, which runs through Dhaka, for breathtaking views of the city.

Local History

1. Liberation War Museum: This museum showcases the history of Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.
2. Armenian Church: This historic church is one of the oldest in Dhaka and was built in 1781.
3. Dhakeshwari Temple: This Hindu temple is located in the old part of Dhaka and is said to be over 1,000 years old.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Old Dhaka: Explore the narrow alleys and ancient buildings of Old Dhaka for a unique experience.
2. National Martyrs’ Memorial: This monument is located in Savar, just outside Dhaka, and is a tribute to the martyrs of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
3. Srimangal: If you have the time, take a trip to Srimangal, a small town known for its tea gardens and natural beauty.

So, if you’re visiting Dhaka, there’s no need to worry about the language barrier as many people do speak English. The city is full of exciting attractions and offers a unique cultural experience. With this insider’s guide, you can make the most out of your trip to Dhaka and explore all that the city has to offer.