Airbnb listings in Bangladesh, especially in Dhaka, show a wide range of rental prices depending on location, size, and amenities. For example, fully furnished apartments in prime areas like Baridhara, Gulshan, or Banani can rent for around $40 to $50 per night. Monthly rentals for furnished apartments in Dhaka typically cater to longer stays and come with a single monthly payment without hidden fees, making them attractive for digital nomads and expatriates.

Globally, Airbnb hosts with entire homes earn an average of $14,498 annually, but this varies with property size and location. Listings with 2-3 bedrooms earn between $13,000 to $18,000 per year on average5. In Bangladesh, given the lower cost of living but growing demand from foreigners and business travelers, a well-located, fully furnished apartment could realistically earn you between $800 to $1,500 per month, or more during peak seasons.

Costs Involved in Renting Out Your Apartment

While the income potential is promising, there are several costs to consider:

• Furnishing and Setup: To attract Airbnb guests, especially foreigners, your apartment should be fully furnished with essentials such as beds, sofas, dining tables, kitchen appliances, and internet. Basic cooking utensils, towels, toiletries, and a water filter are also expected.
• Maintenance and Cleaning: Regular cleaning between guest stays is crucial to maintain high ratings. Some hosts hire professional cleaners, which can be a recurring expense.
• Utilities and Internet: Providing high-speed Wi-Fi, electricity, water, and sometimes cable TV adds to your costs but is necessary to meet guest expectations.
• Platform Fees: Airbnb charges hosts a service fee (typically around 3%) on each booking.
• Security and Insurance: Investing in home security systems or insurance to protect your property and guests is advisable.
• Marketing and Management: If you do not manage the listing yourself, hiring a property manager or rental service can cost additional fees but can save time and improve guest experience.

Fully Furnished vs. Unfurnished

For Airbnb rentals, fully furnished apartments are strongly recommended. Foreign travelers and expatriates expect a move-in ready space with comfortable furniture, kitchen appliances, and amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi37. Unfurnished apartments may attract fewer bookings and lower nightly rates, as guests prefer convenience and comfort.

Fully furnished apartments in Dhaka often include:

• Queen or king-size beds with quality linens
• Air conditioning units in bedrooms and living areas
• Kitchen with stove, refrigerator, microwave, and cooking utensils
• Dining and living room furniture
• High-speed internet and entertainment options like TV with streaming services
• Clean bathrooms with hot water and toiletries

Offering these amenities not only justifies higher rental prices but also improves guest satisfaction and reviews.

Targeting Foreigners

Foreigners visiting Bangladesh for business, tourism, or long-term stays are a key market segment for Airbnb rentals. Many prefer Airbnb over hotels for a more authentic local experience and better value. To attract foreign guests:

• Highlight proximity to international airports, business districts, and cultural attractions.
• Emphasize safety features, cleanliness, and modern facilities.
• Provide clear, detailed listings with high-quality photos and descriptions in English.
• Offer flexible check-in/out times and 24/7 guest support.
• Consider providing extras like airport pickup, local SIM cards, or guides to local dining and transportation.

Popular neighborhoods for foreigners include Gulshan, Banani, Baridhara, and Uttara, where demand for short and long-term furnished rentals is high.

Contracts and Legal Considerations

When renting out your apartment on Airbnb in Bangladesh, it is important to have clear agreements and understand local regulations:

• Rental Agreements: While Airbnb provides a platform contract, consider drafting a supplementary rental agreement specifying house rules, payment terms, security deposits, and liability clauses to protect yourself.
• Tenancy Law Compliance: Rent should be set considering the building cost and 15% of the land value as per Bangladesh tenancy laws6. Ensure your rental pricing complies with local regulations.
• Taxation: Income earned from Airbnb rentals is subject to taxation. Consult a tax professional to declare your earnings properly.
• Insurance: Obtain appropriate insurance coverage for short-term rentals to cover property damage or liability.
• Safety and Permissions: Ensure your building management allows short-term rentals. Comply with fire safety and health regulations.

Practical Tips for Success

• Professional Photos: Invest in high-quality photos showcasing your apartment’s best features.
• Responsive Communication: Reply promptly to inquiries and maintain good communication with guests.
• Guest Reviews: Encourage guests to leave positive reviews to build your reputation.
• Competitive Pricing: Research similar listings in your area and price competitively, adjusting for seasonality.
• House Rules: Set clear house rules to avoid misunderstandings.
• Cleaning and Maintenance: Keep your apartment spotless and well-maintained.
• Consider Using a Rental Management Service: Companies like Ecommerce BD offer professional rental management that can increase your income and reduce hassle.

Conclusion

Renting out your spare apartment in Bangladesh through Airbnb offers a promising income stream, especially if you target foreigners with fully furnished, well-located properties. By understanding the earning potential, managing costs, complying with legal requirements, and providing excellent guest experiences, you can maximize your rental income and enjoy the benefits of the booming short-term rental market in Bangladesh.

With careful preparation and management, your Airbnb listing can become a reliable source of additional income, helping you monetize your spare space effectively.