UAE-based Bangladeshis eye $80.8 million investment in Bangladesh

Bangladeshi businesspeople in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are considering investing Tk1,000 crore (approximately $80.8 million) in Bangladesh if the government eases approvals and provides land, infrastructure, and investment protections.

Members of the Bangladesh Commercially Important Person-Business Association announced the plan at a Dhaka news conference, identifying digital and artificial intelligence-based Islamic banking, renewable energy, tourism, education, health care, and food processing among potential sectors.

Association officials also urged Bangladesh to address longstanding UAE visa restrictions that they said have prevented workers from changing employers and left thousands stranded at home after visa cancellations.

The group proposed stronger expatriate services, including a 24-hour emergency helpline, a digital complaint system, and support cells.

“The government has agreed with us on these problems and assured us that they will be resolved very soon,” association convener Mohammad Rubel said.