The seven-day Eid-ul-Fitr holiday has begun, drawing large crowds to Cox’s Bazar, home to the world’s longest natural sea beach.
The town saw few visitors during Ramadan, but the Eid break is expected to reverse the trend, with over 500 hotels, motels, and resorts already reporting 60-70% of rooms booked in advance.
Peak tourist flow is expected between 19 and 24 March.
Businesses and authorities have stepped up preparations, including special programmes, entertainment events, and reinforced security.
Hotel owners report steady increases in bookings across luxury and budget accommodations.
Mukim Khan, general secretary of the Kolatoli Marine Drive Hotel-Resort Owners’ Association, said bookings reflect strong demand, with daily tourist numbers expected to exceed 100,000, potentially boosting tourism revenue.
Many hotels are also offering special Eid packages and discounts.
Dula, front desk manager of Hotel Cox Today, said arrivals are expected to begin 19 March, with the main rush continuing through 23-24 March.
Shahadat Hossain of Ramada Cox’s Bazar said the hotel has arranged a DJ programme with a popular local artist on 22 March, live saxophone performances, and a gala buffet featuring local and international cuisine to enhance visitors’ holiday experience.
Meanwhile, the district administration and Tourist Police Bangladesh have intensified safety measures.
Parvez Ahmed, inspector of the Tourist Police Cox’s Bazar Zone, said a three-tier security system combines uniformed officers, plainclothes surveillance, and intelligence teams operating in shifts around the clock.
He noted that over 100,000 tourists are expected and assured that all measures are in place to prevent incidents, keeping the Tourist Police fully alert and prepared.
About The Author
