Eid Holidays Draw Record Crowds to Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar has turned into a bustling hub of festivity as an overwhelming influx of tourists floods the country’s premier seaside destination during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays.

With a week-long holiday drawing travellers from across the country, the beach town is witnessing an unprecedented surge in visitors.

According to local hotel owners, more than 500 hotels, motels and resorts are operating at full capacity, with most already booked in advance until March 30.

From families to groups of friends, thousands have chosen to spend their Eid break by the sea, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

Key tourist spots including Kolatoli, Sugandha and Laboni beaches remain packed throughout the day, while popular attractions such as Inani Beach, Marine Drive, Himchhari, Ramu Buddhist Temple and Moheshkhali’s Adinath Temple are also teeming with visitors.

“The natural beauty of Cox’s Bazar always fascinates me. That’s why I came here to spend Eid,” said Abdul Mabud, a tourist from Narayanganj. “I plan to stay for two more days. It feels wonderful to be here.”

Tourism Businesses Rebound After Ramadan Lull

The massive tourist turnout has breathed new life into the local tourism-dependent economy.

Businesses that remained subdued during Ramadan are now experiencing a revival, particularly dried fish traders.

“Business was slow during Ramadan, but in the past two days, we’ve seen a large number of tourists,” said Mofizur Rahman, a dried fish seller at the Burmese Market. “We are hopeful that sales will continue to improve in the coming days,” he said.

“Tourist pressure has increased significantly during Eid. Every hotel is fully occupied,” said Abul Kashem Sikder, president of the Cox’s Bazar Hotel Owners’ Association. “We have instructed all establishments to ensure fair pricing and prevent any harassment of visitors,” he said.

Authorities Tighten Security Amid Huge Crowds

Amid the surge, authorities have stepped up security measures across the district.

Personnel from the district administration, Tourist Police and other law enforcement agencies are maintaining round-the-clock vigilance to ensure the safety of visitors.

However, ensuring beach safety remains a challenge due to limited manpower.

“After a month and a half of low tourist flow, the beaches are now crowded again,” said Md Imtiaz Ahmed, a project officer of Sea Safe Lifeguard. “We are struggling to ensure safety for over a lakh of tourists with only 27 personnel. Still, we are doing our best.”

Tourist Police Sub-Inspector Sujan Chakraborty said security has been given top priority. “With the huge influx of visitors, our teams are on duty across beach areas, hotel zones and entertainment spots,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner Abdul Mannan assured that the administration is committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

“Tourists are guests in our city. We will continue to ensure their safety and provide necessary services,” he said.

Extended Holidays Fuel Massive Tourist Turnout

As the holiday continues, Cox’s Bazar remains abuzz with life, reaffirming its status as the country’s most sought-after tourist destination.

Following an additional executive order, government employees enjoyed a seven-day holiday from March 17 to 23.

Offices, courts, banks and other institutions reopened on March 24, with work continuing on March 25 before a public holiday on March 26 for Independence Day.

The weekend on March 27–28 will follow, with regular activities resuming on March 29. Those who have taken leave on March 24 and 25 are enjoying a 12-day break.

Tourists have also thronged Bandarban even on the third day of Eid holidays.