Urging UAE-based Bangladeshis to send remittances through banks, not hundi

Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury has called on Bangladeshi business owners in the United Arab Emirates to steer their employees toward using formal banking channels for sending remittances, away from informal 'hundi' systems. This initiative aims to strengthen the formal economy and ensure greater transparency in financial flows.

To further incentivize the use of legal channels, the government is set to introduce an "Expatriates Card." This card will offer expatriates affordable and priority healthcare services at both public and private hospitals in Bangladesh. The minister made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the Bangladesh CIP Business Association in Dubai.

The meeting also addressed the recent cancellation of visas for a significant number of Bangladeshis in the UAE. The Bangladesh mission in the UAE is compiling a database of affected individuals to identify the causes and formulate necessary government actions. The minister acknowledged restrictions on family, student, tourist, and employment visas, as well as visa transfers, which have been ongoing since July 2024.

Minister Chowdhury emphasized that the ministry is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to resolve these visa complications. He urged Bangladeshi business leaders in Dubai to leverage their relationships with local authorities to support the government's endeavors. The minister also highlighted potential incentives for expatriate investors, including special quotas for land and infrastructure in economic zones, alongside tax benefits, and pledged improved government services through a one-stop system.

Additionally, the minister advised expatriates to adhere strictly to UAE laws and customs, warning against engaging in illegal activities or spreading negative campaigns online. Discussions are also underway with the civil aviation ministry and airlines to address ticket syndicates and ensure reasonable airfares for travel between the UAE and Bangladesh.

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Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury has urged Bangladeshi business owners in the United Arab Emirates to encourage their employees to send remittances through formal banking channels instead of hundi.