Dhaka’s serviced apartment market is transforming faster than ever—and for good reason. With rapid urbanization, an ongoing housing shortage, and increasing numbers of international visitors and remote professionals, serviced apartments have become one of the smartest living solutions in Bangladesh’s capital.

Offering flexibility, comfort, and strong value compared to hotels or traditional rentals, furnished and serviced units are now a preferred choice for expats, NRBs, business travelers, students, and young professionals. Here’s a closer look at how the market is growing and what makes it such a compelling investment and lifestyle option.

1. Why Serviced Apartments Are on the Rise in Dhaka

Several clear trends are pushing this market upward:

• Convenience is king

More tenants want “move-in ready” spaces—no hassle, no furniture shopping, no setup delays. Serviced apartments give them everything from a furnished bedroom to kitchen appliances and internet.

• Changing demographics

| Demand is coming from multiple groups:

| Expats & diplomats

| Corporate and NGO staff

| NRBs visiting for work or family

| Students and young professionals

• Cost advantage over hotels

Many serviced apartments are 3–4 times cheaper than a 3-star hotel for long stays, with more space and privacy.

This makes serviced living a practical choice for both short-term and long-term stays.

2. Who’s Renting Serviced Apartments? (Demand Breakdown)

To understand where the market is heading, it’s important to look at the people driving demand.

Expatriates & Foreign Professionals

This group overwhelmingly prefers high-security, well-managed neighborhoods like Gulshan, Baridhara, and Banani. They look for:

• Fully furnished, hassle-free living

• Proximity to embassies, corporate hubs, and international schools

• Corporate & Business Travelers

Multinationals and NGOs frequently book serviced apartments for their teams. They value:

• Cost savings vs. long hotel stays

• Flexible lease terms

• Reliable, professionally managed spaces

• Non-Resident Bangladeshis (NRBs)

NRBs want the comfort of home without troublesome caretaker arrangements. They look for:

• Security and professional management

• Privacy for families

• Modern amenities

• Students & Young Professionals

This group fuels the demand for studios and affordable one-bedroom units, especially in Bashundhara and Badda. They prioritize:

• Affordability

• High-speed internet

• Ready-to-move-in options

3. The Supply Side: Who’s Providing These Apartments?

Dhaka’s serviced apartment supply is diverse, driven by:

Property Management Companies

Organizations like WE, REIT Limited, and others offer fully managed furnished units aimed at expats, NRBs, and corporate clients.

Relocation Services

Firms like IRAS assist international employees by handling everything: housing search, negotiations, and move-in.

Online Platforms

Airbnb and local portals like Rents Corporation help landlords connect with long- and short-term tenants.

Real Estate Developers

Developers such as Tropical Homes and bti now build studio units and pre-furnished apartments to meet growing demand for compact, modern living.

Common Features Offered

Most serviced apartments include:

• High-speed Wi-Fi

• 24/7 security with CCTV

• Full kitchen setup

• Washing machine

• Backup power

• Air-conditioning & hot water

• Optional cleaning or laundry services

These amenities make the units attractive for both residents and investors.

4. Where the Demand Is Highest: Dhaka’s Key Neighborhoods

Location is the biggest factor influencing price and tenant profile.

Gulshan

Dhaka’s most premium expat zone—diplomatic area, international schools, restaurants, and corporate offices. Highest rental rates.

Baridhara

A calm, upscale diplomatic neighborhood preferred by senior diplomats and families seeking safety and exclusivity.

Banani

A lively, mixed-use area popular among young professionals. Slightly more affordable than Gulshan.

Bashundhara R/A

A self-contained community with universities, hospitals, and malls—ideal for students, families, and long-term residents.

Uttara

Affordable and peaceful, with quick access to the airport. Great for frequent travelers and families.

As a whole, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC)—home to Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara, Bashundhara, and Uttara—dominates the serviced housing market.

5. Rental Pricing: What Tenants Pay and What Investors Earn

Rental prices vary widely due to location, size, and amenities.

Average Rent Ranges

• General 1-bedroom (Dhaka): ৳20,000 – ৳70,000

• Studio apartments: ৳10,000 – ৳40,000

• High-end 2BHK in Banani: ৳150,000

City averages can be misleading. Premium expat-focused neighborhoods command much higher rents, making them more relevant for investors.

Rental Yield for Investors

Studio apartments can generate 5–8% annual rental yield, higher than larger units in most cases.

Additional Tenant Costs

• Security deposit: usually 1–2 months’ rent (though legally capped at 1 month).

• Utilities: sometimes included, sometimes separate.

• Extra services: cleaning, laundry, or private cook services may cost extra.

6. Renting in Dhaka: Legal Basics for Expats & Locals

Foreigners can legally rent apartments in Bangladesh, but must follow standard documentation procedures.

Key legal points:

| Always sign a written lease agreement.

| Landlords must issue a receipt for rent payments.

| If a landlord refuses rent, tenants may legally deposit payment through money order or Rent Controller.

| Legally, landlords should not demand more than one month’s security deposit, though 2–3 months is standard practice for high-end units.

| Tenants who pay rent on time cannot be evicted arbitrarily.

| Understanding the gap between legal rules and real-world practice is essential for foreign tenants.

Hotels BD

7. What’s Next for Dhaka’s Serviced Apartment Market?

Looking ahead, several trends stand out:

1. Growth of compact living

Studios and small 1-bedroom units will continue to dominate due to affordability and lifestyle preferences.

2. Rise of professional property management

Tenants increasingly prefer professional operators over informal arrangements, boosting management companies.

3. Smarter homes

• Future developments will include:

• Smart locks

• Energy-efficient appliances

• Automated security systems

4. Strong investment potential

High rental yields and steady demand from expats, students, and corporate travelers make serviced apartments an attractive long-term investment.

Final Thoughts

Dhaka’s serviced apartment sector isn’t just a trend—it’s a structural shift in how people live, work, and travel in Bangladesh’s busiest city. For investors, it offers reliable returns and stable demand. For tenants, it delivers comfort, convenience, and affordability in a growing metropolitan environment.

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