Dhaka’s bustling neighbourhoods of Gulshan and Banani are at the heart of the city’s thriving coworking scene, offering professionals, freelancers, startups, and creatives a range of modern, flexible workspaces. Both areas are known for their upscale vibe, proximity to business hubs, and vibrant communities, but each has a distinct flavour that caters to different work styles.
Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking a quiet desk, a startup founder looking for networking opportunities, or a creative craving an inspiring environment, choosing between Gulshan and Banani depends on your priorities. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide which coworking hub fits your needs.
Location and Accessibility
Gulshan: The Upscale Business Hub
Gulshan, particularly Gulshan 1 and Gulshan 2, is one of Dhaka’s most prestigious commercial and diplomatic zones. Its coworking spaces, like The Business Center and Regus in Gulshan 2, are strategically located near major corporate offices, embassies, and high-end restaurants, making it ideal for professionals working with international clients or established businesses.
The area is well-connected, with easy access to the Dhaka Elevated Expressway and public transport options like buses and rickshaws. However, traffic congestion can be a challenge, especially during peak hours, so proximity to your residence or client locations is worth considering.
Banani: The Dynamic and Accessible Hotspot
Banani, particularly around Road 11, is known for its energetic vibe and slightly more relaxed atmosphere compared to Gulshan. Coworking spaces like Moar, Locus BD, and Shuru Campus are nestled in this bustling area, close to Banani Lake and Kamal Ataturk Avenue.
Banani’s proximity to major transport hubs, including Banani railway station (just 700m from some spaces), makes it highly accessible for commuters. It’s also a favourite among younger professionals and startups due to its lively, community-driven environment and slightly more affordable rental options.
Verdict: If you prioritise prestige and proximity to corporate offices, Gulshan is your go-to. For better accessibility and a vibrant, youthful vibe, Banani takes the edge.
Amenities and Facilities
Gulshan: Premium and Professional
Coworking spaces in Gulshan are designed with a polished, corporate feel. Spaces like Akota Coworking on Gulshan Avenue offer modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, ergonomic furniture, and conference rooms bookable via apps.
Many spaces, like The Business Centre, emphasise a green, ambient environment with features like outdoor terraces and complimentary tea or coffee. Regus in Gulshan 2 provides premium services, including bilingual secretarial staff, business-grade Wi-Fi, and fully furnished meeting rooms, catering to professionals who need a high-end, client-facing workspace. These spaces often come with a higher price tag though.
Banani: Functional and Community-Focused
Banani’s coworking spaces prioritise functionality and community. Moar, with branches in Banani and Gulshan Link Road, offers consistent pricing across locations (hot desks at approximately BDT 8,000/month) and amenities such as meeting rooms, cubicles, and high-speed internet.
Locus BD on Banani Road 11 stands out with its diverse workspace options: open, semi-enclosed, and private areas, along with introductory rates for young entrepreneurs. Shuru Campus in Banani incorporates natural elements, such as greenery and natural light, to create a refreshing atmosphere for creative work. These spaces often host networking events, workshops, and community-building activities, making them ideal for startups and freelancers looking to connect.
Verdict: Gulshan suits those seeking premium, corporate-grade facilities, while Banani excels for budget-conscious professionals who value community and flexibility.
Community and Networking
Gulshan: Professional and International
Gulshan’s coworking spaces attract a mix of established businesses, international clients, and corporate professionals. Spaces like The Indie Room and Spaces in Gulshan 1 foster a professional environment with a focus on collaboration and innovation. Networking events here often cater to high-level professionals, making it a great choice for those looking to connect with corporate or diplomatic circles. The presence of international coworking brands like Regus also adds a global networking dimension, ideal for businesses aiming to scale internationally.
Banani: Creative and Collaborative
Banani’s coworking scene is more startup-friendly and creative, with spaces like The Attention Network and CoSpace hosting events like movie screenings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and pitch nights. These spaces attract freelancers, digital nomads, and young entrepreneurs, fostering a tight-knit community where collaboration is encouraged. JMC Shared Office in Banani’s diplomatic zone adds an international flair with legal and HR support, appealing to startups with global ambitions. The vibe here is less formal, making it easier to form organic connections.
Verdict: Choose Gulshan for professional, high-level networking; opt for Banani if you thrive in a creative, startup-driven community.
Cost and Value
Gulshan: Higher Costs, Premium Value
Gulshan’s coworking spaces tend to be pricier due to their prime location and upscale amenities. For example, Regus charges BDT 15,490–23,390 per month for a hot desk or dedicated desk, reflecting its premium services and international brand. Akota and The Business Center offer tailored membership plans but still lean toward the higher end, with private offices starting at BDT 35,000–65,000/month. The value lies in the professional environment, modern facilities, and proximity to Dhaka’s business elite.
Banani: Affordable and Flexible
Banani offers more budget-friendly options, with spaces like Moar and Locus BD providing hot desks starting at BDT 8,000–15,000/month and dedicated desks at BDT 12,000–20,000/month. Shuru Campus and CoSpace also offer flexible plans, with private offices around BDT 50,000/month. The lower costs, combined with community-focused amenities, make Banani a cost-effective choice for startups and freelancers.
Verdict: Gulshan is worth the investment for those needing a premium, client-facing space; Banani offers better value for budget-conscious professionals.
Workstyle Fit
Gulshan: Best for Corporate Professionals and Established Businesses
Gulshan’s coworking spaces are ideal for those who need a polished, professional environment to meet clients, host formal meetings, or work in a corporate setting. The upscale vibe, high-end amenities, and proximity to business hubs make it perfect for consultants, lawyers, or businesses with international ties. If your workstyle demands a quiet, distraction-free space with a corporate edge, Gulshan is the better fit.
Banani: Best for Startups, Freelancers, and Creatives
Banani’s coworking spaces cater to dynamic, creative, and collaborative workstyles. The vibrant community, frequent networking events, and budget-friendly pricing make it a haven for startups, freelancers, and digital nomads. If you thrive in an energetic, social environment where ideas flow freely, Banani’s coworking hubs align perfectly with your needs.
Final Thoughts
Both Gulshan and Banani offer exceptional coworking spaces, but your choice depends on your workstyle and priorities. Gulshan is the go-to for professionals seeking a premium, corporate environment with top-tier amenities and networking opportunities with established businesses. Banani, on the other hand, is perfect for those who value affordability, flexibility, and a creative, community-driven atmosphere.
Consider visiting spaces like The Business Centre or Regus in Gulshan, or Moar, Locus BD, and Shuru Campus in Banani to get a feel for their vibe. Many offer day passes or tours, so you can test the environment before committing. Whichever you choose, Dhaka’s coworking scene in these neighbourhoods ensures you’ll find a space that fuels your productivity and growth.
