THE term ‘digital nomad’ has been at the centre of much discussion in technologically advanced societies. It refers to a career that combines the ultimate freedom of technology-based life and the joys of travel, creating opportunities for the host country. However, it poses a challenge and harm to local communities. Although this trend is popular in many countries in the global context, the concept is still little known in Bangladesh — it is slowly being discussed among particular groups. We need to know and be aware of the role of digital nomads, their activities and the resulting impact on the country’s socio-economic infrastructure.
Digital nomads refer to people who work from a remote location (outside their home countries) via the internet and also enjoy traveling. Their field of work is not confined to any place; rather, they continue their careers by visiting different countries. The concept was first discussed in the book ‘Digital Nomad’ by Tsugio Makimoto and David Manners (1997). At the time, it was said how the internet would combine employment with a nomadic life for the wanderlust.
Generally speaking, digital nomads are tech-savvy professionals working remotely from developed nations. Usually, the low cost of living in relatively less developed or developed nations allows such people to continue their work online, thus they stay there. Usually living in different countries and changing locations roughly three times a year, these nomads make their work and personal lives somewhat on tour.
If certain advantages can be guaranteed in Bangladesh, it can be one such place for digital nomads considering the location, economic situation and living expenses in comparison. For the work of digital professionals, one of the most crucial of these is fast and consistent Internet service. Attracting digital nomads will also depend much on infrastructure developments, including modern hotels, co-working spaces and simple transportation.
Another major consideration is security and stability, which will inspire digital nomads visiting nations like Bangladesh more. To be free from worry, digital nomads from all around must make sure their security first wherever they search for employment and accommodations. Simplification of visa policies and other administrative procedures could also help Bangladesh become a popular destination for digital nomads, benefiting the tourism industry and national economy. Still, certain difficulties persist.
Rising as an emerging nation in the travel industry, Bangladesh draws more and more foreign visitors. Particularly areas like Cox’s Bazar, Sundarbans, and Chittagong Hill Tracts have lately become main attractions for visitors. Although these locations are already well-known as travel destinations, they also could draw digital nomads. Particularly tourist destinations, including Chittagong Hill Tracts, Cox’s Bazar, Sylhet, Gazipur, Noakhali, Patuakhali or Saint Martin with high-quality WiFi and other technical facilities, can become the focal point for this group.
Some areas of Bangladesh might appeal, especially to digital nomads. One of the attractions for visitors from all around the world is Cox’s Bazar, with its longest beach. For both travel and business, nomads may also find appeal in the mountainous parts of Bandarban, the lakes of Rangamati, and the Sylhet tea estates. Moreover, the historical city centre of Dhaka can be designed with a particular area for digital nomads. For digital nomads, areas with high-speed internet and modern restaurants and coffee shops offer quiet working environs.
The presence of digital nomads in Bangladesh can have a major influence on its economic situation. Particularly in hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies, digital nomads can boost nearby companies. Digital nomads not only travel but also spend more time staying in one location, increasing their chances to support the local economy and communities.
As has been observed in many nations, this can also put pressure on the prices of goods and services for locals. For instance, the flood of visitors to the Spanish Balearic Islands has driven up the cost of commodities. Should the same circumstances arise in Bangladesh, local residents’ cost of living could rise, taxing the population already suffering poverty.
Digital nomads can provide local job possibilities for underdeveloped nations like Bangladesh. Working with local businesses and communities, digital nomads help to strengthen the national economy. Furthermore, these nomads can exchange technological knowledge and expertise, which would help to pique local population interest in the field. Conversely, if digital nomads boost the flow of investment in local tourism and technology sectors, their presence and activities could help the nation’s general socioeconomic scenarios.
Attracting digital nomads requires certain infrastructure modifications in Bangladesh. For those who live digitally, lack of high-speed internet in the nation can be a big obstacle. Particularly in places outside Dhaka, which can seriously affect the work of this digital nomad group, internet speeds are often slow and erratic. Besides, Bangladesh’s tourism industry is still mostly unplanned. Essential are the development of necessary infrastructure, improvement of the transportation system, and enhancement of security for visitors.
The government has taken several initiatives to further develop the tourism sector. However, no special visa or employment benefits have yet been introduced to attract digital nomads. If the government looks into this and launches special programmes to attract foreign digital nomads, Bangladesh can quickly become a digital nomad destination. Bangladesh needs to take some fundamental initiatives to attract digital nomads. These include:
Expansion of high-speed internet: High-speed internet needs to be ensured in areas outside Dhaka, which is essential for the working life of digital nomads.
Introduction of special visa programme: Special visa programme can be introduced for digital nomads, so that they can easily come to the country and stay for a long time.
Development of local tourism sector: Ensure safe and improved accommodation, transportation and services for tourists.
Engagement with local communities: Digital nomads need to develop a model of engagement with local communities, which will help develop the local economy.
ÌýÌýBangladesh has huge potential for digital nomads. With the right infrastructure development and the government›s goodwill, Bangladesh can soon become a popular digital nomad destination. However, it should also be careful to protect the interests of the local communities.Ìý
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Dr M Ala Uddin is a professor of anthropology at the University of Chittagong.