Travel Agency

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The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reported that Bangladesh’s travel and tourism industry directly generated 1,281,500 jobs in 2020, or 1.8% of the country’s total employment. The WTTC predicted that by 2023, travel and tourism would directly generate 1,785,000 jobs and support an overall total of 3,891,000 jobs, or 4.2% of the country’s total employment. This would represent an annual growth rate in direct jobs of 2.9%. 

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The travel and tourism market in Bangladesh is growing rapidly, as Statista reported with a projected annual growth rate of 4.80% from 2024 to 2028. The market volume is expected to reach US$2,634m by 2028, with revenue projected to reach US$2,184m in the same year. The largest market segment is the Hotels market, with a projected market volume of US$1,169 m in 2024. By 2028, the number of users in the Hotels market is expected to amount to 12,680k users. The travel and tourism industry in Bangladesh is also influenced by several trends. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the emergence of “revenge travel”, Insight Travel blogged that people who have saved money during the lockdowns are now eager to spend on vacations and trips. The concept of “workation”, which combines working and traveling, has also gained popularity, reported by BBC. Furthermore, there is a growing awareness of the human impact on the environment, leading to changes in tourism with a focus on more sustainable travel.

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Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) now control about 4-6% of the total travel market in Bangladesh, according to Future Startup. In a report by Airways Ofiice, a gross merchandise value of $1,820 million in 2019, the air market of Bangladesh had an average daily ticket booking of 31,240, 8% of which was occupied by OTAs. The success of an OTA business depends on factors such as internet penetration, digital payment, and overall awareness regarding digital shopping. The travel agency industry in Bangladesh has witnessed significant growth in recent years. According to the Civil Aviation and Tourism Ministry, as of August 2023, there are over 5,200 active travel agencies in the country, catering to a diverse range of clientele. These agencies offer a wide spectrum of services, including:

Flight and hotel bookings: Securing the best deals on flights and accommodations, catering to various budgets and preferences.

Visa assistance: Navigating the visa application process, providing guidance and support.

Tour packages: Creating customized itineraries encompassing historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and adventure activities.

Transportation: Arranging airport transfers, local transportation within the country, and car rentals.

Travel insurance: Providing peace of mind with comprehensive travel insurance options.

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Bangladesh’s tourism sector is rapidly evolving, with several emerging destinations gaining popularity:

Paharpur: Known for its archaeological site, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Kuakata: Famous for its panoramic sea beach where one can see both sunrise and sunset.

Bagerhat: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its historic mosque.

Sonargaon: Known for its folk arts and crafts museum and ancient architectural sites.

Comilla: Famous for its archaeological sites

Puthia: Delve into the rich history of Puthia, an ancient town renowned for its terracotta 

Sonadia Island: Embark on an adventure to Sonadia Island, a developing tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for dolphin watching.

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Several established travel agencies in Bangladesh have garnered a reputation for excellence. Some prominent names include:

i. Obokash Travel: Renowned for their expertise in visa processing and personalized tour packages.

ii. GoZayaan: A prominent online travel agency offering user-friendly booking platforms and competitive deals.

iii. Dragon Holidays BD: Recognized for their focus on tailor-made itineraries and adventure travel.

iv. Amy: The first online travel agency in Bangladesh, offering convenient online booking solutions.

v. goFLY Limited: A leading agency known for its dedication to customer service and extensive travel options.

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The future of the travel agency industry in Bangladesh appears bright, driven by several factors:

Rising disposable income: As the Bangladesh economy continues to grow, individuals have more disposable income, leading to an increased demand for leisure travel.

Technological advancements: Online booking platforms and mobile applications are simplifying the travel planning process, making travel agencies even more accessible.

Focus on niche tourism: Agencies are increasingly catering to specific travel segments, such as eco-tourism, adventure travel, and cultural immersion, to meet the evolving preferences of travelers.

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By leveraging their expertise, fostering innovation, and adapting to evolving trends, Bangladeshi travel agencies are well-positioned to play a pivotal role in promoting the country's tourism sector and welcoming travelers from around the globe to experience the magic of Bangladesh.

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The travel agency industry in Bangladesh holds promising potential for future growth and development. One key factor contributing to this is the rise of domestic tourism, fueled by the country's expanding middle class and increasing disposable income. As reported by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the direct contribution of travel and tourism to Bangladesh's GDP is expected to grow by 6.7% annually between 2022 and 2032. This upward trend in domestic tourism could create opportunities for travel agencies to cater to the demand for domestic travel packages, tour arrangements, and related services.

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Moreover, the industry is poised to undergo a digital transformation, much like many other sectors. The integration of online booking platforms, mobile applications, and technology will likely shape the future of travel agencies in Bangladesh, enabling them to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and reach a wider audience. According to a report by the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS), the country's digital economy has been growing at an annual rate of 16%, indicating the potential for digitalization across various industries, including the travel sector.

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Furthermore, the development of transportation infrastructure, such as improved roads, airports, and connectivity within Bangladesh, can positively impact the travel agency industry by facilitating easier and more convenient travel experiences for customers. The government's efforts to improve infrastructure, as outlined in the Seventh Five-Year Plan (2016-2020), are expected to continue, supporting the growth of the tourism and travel sectors. 

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Travel agencies in Bangladesh may also explore opportunities to specialize in niche areas, such as adventure tourism, sustainable tourism, or customized travel experiences, catering to specific market segments and differentiating themselves from competitors. The growing trend of sustainable and responsible tourism, as highlighted by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, presents potential for travel agencies to tap into this market.

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Additionally, the growth of regional cooperation and connectivity within South Asia could open up avenues for travel agencies in Bangladesh to offer services and packages for regional tourism, facilitating travel to neighboring countries and promoting cultural exchange. Initiatives like the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal) Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA) aim to enhance regional connectivity and boost tourism in the region, mentioned by UNESCAP.

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