Remittances have so far held up. Bangladesh received $8.57 billion between July and September, up 13% from a year earlier. But growth in September alone was only 2.2%, a sharp slowdown from earlier months. Bangladesh Bank data show that the country received $35.34 billion in formal remittances in the last fiscal year.
Why The Gulf Matters So Much
Nearly half of Bangladesh’s remittances come from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, according to central bank data. Over three million Bangladeshis work in the region. Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait together accounted for 86% of workers who found jobs abroad in FY25. When Gulf economies shrink, these workers are often the first to see wage cuts or job losses.
Fewer Workers Are Leaving
The war began on February 28, and the effect on migration was quick. Nearly 900 Middle East-bound flights were cancelled by mid-April. Emigration clearances fell from 95,095 in January to 44,661 in March. After a brief calm, renewed conflict in July revived fears about the labour market. Fewer departures today can mean lower remittances tomorrow.
Risks For Workers Themselves
Migrant workers are exposed in wartime. Some have reportedly been detained or sent home for sharing war videos or photos on social media. Analysts also warn that Gulf countries’ push towards automation may reduce demand for low-skilled workers over time.
From Dhaka To The Village
For families back home, remittances pay for food, school fees, loans and house repairs. A job loss in the Gulf can quickly become a missed meal or a delayed loan payment in a village. Economists have asked for a special fund to support workers who must return home.
What Could Help
Experts urge Bangladesh to diversify labour markets, train workers in higher-demand skills and keep up diplomatic talks with Gulf governments. Some say reconstruction after the war could create new demand for workers.
Remittances are a lifeline, and for now the lifeline is holding. How long it holds will depend on how long the conflict lasts.
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Q1. Are Dhaka to Saudi flights still running?
Not on all routes. Biman has paused Dhaka-Riyadh flights until 17 October and US-Bangla until 21 October, which has affected 5,418 passengers so far. Check the latest on Dhaka-Saudi flight disruptions before you head to the airport.
Q2. What did the Lancet warn about AI and nuclear war?
A Lancet Commission ranked harmful AI use and nuclear conflict at the top of 17 major threats to human health by 2100. It also says these risks can be reduced if leaders act now. Read the full findings in Lancet warns AI misuse and nuclear war could end humanity by 2100.
Q3. How can I check my land tax online?
Register on the land development tax portal with your mobile number and NID, then use your holding details and token number to see what you owe. You can pay through the Ministry of Land website or bKash. Follow the step-by-step guide to check land tax (khajna) online through the e-Mutation portal.
Q4. How many Bangladeshis died in the Riyadh airport attack?
Two Bangladeshis were among the 12 people killed when a missile hit King Khalid International Airport on 10 October, and 309 people were injured. Saudi authorities blamed the Houthis. See the full details in the report on the Riyadh airport attack that killed two Bangladeshis.
Q5. Why are Bengali Muslims worried about citizenship in India?
Many fear having to prove their citizenship again and again, because of the NRC, the CAA and voter roll checks. Documents and even the Bengali language have become a source of suspicion for some families. Explore the full analysis on Bengali Muslims and India’s citizenship politics.
