Tourism business in Cox’s Bazar revives with Eid

After months of business downturn due to Ramadan and the political situation, the tourism sector in Cox’s Bazar is finally seeing a ray of hope with the upcoming Eid celebrations. Tourism-related businesses in the coastal city expect full occupancy and booming business during the Eid holidays.

In the months leading up to Ramadan, Cox’s Bazar witnessed a significant decline in tourist numbers. Business owners attribute this to the country's political instability and economic challenges, which discouraged people from traveling. However, hotel operators are optimistic that the city will once again be bustling with tourists after Eid.

With an extended nine-day government holiday this time, travel enthusiasts are expected to flock to Cox’s Bazar. Abu Taleb, an official at the star-rated hotel "Cox Today," confirmed that all hotel rooms are fully booked for the holiday period. He added that Cox’s Bazar is prepared to welcome thousands of tourists.

Not only star-rated hotels but also regular hotels have reported full occupancy, according to business owners.

The tourism sector's economic impact extends beyond hotels, benefiting restaurants, small businesses, and transport services such as auto-rickshaws, according to Cox’s Bazar Chamber of Commerce Chairman Abu Morshed Chowdhury.

He further stated that Cox’s Bazar’s tourism sector generates billions of taka every season, contributing to government revenue. Though there are no precise figures on earnings and expenditures during peak and off-seasons, it is estimated that the tourism sector could generate billions in revenue during this extended holiday period.

To restore public confidence in security, law enforcement agencies have ramped up their efforts. Additional Police Superintendent Jasim Uddin, the spokesperson for the district police, mentioned that special patrols have been intensified, especially to ensure the safety of female tourists and women in the city.

Additionally, the Tourist Police have strengthened security along the beach. Ahead of Eid, they have implemented a three-tier security system, covering the key beach points of Laboni, Sugandha, and Kolatoli. According to Tourist Police Superintendent Nohad Adnan Taiyan, teams will be patrolling both day and night to ensure tourists can enjoy the beach safely.

To prevent harassment and ensure overall security, mobile courts operated by the district administration will be on the ground. Furthermore, police, RAB, and BGB forces will also be deployed, confirmed Cox’s Bazar Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Salahuddin.

Cox’s Bazar has over 400 hotels and motels, along with around a thousand restaurants. Industry experts estimate that these establishments can accommodate over a hundred thousand tourists daily, ensuring a vibrant and profitable holiday season for the city.