Uttara vs. Bashundhara R/A: Which is Better for Your Next Home?

Dhaka is one of the growing cities in South Asia. Buying an apartment in Dhaka is a major decision. If you want the right location, good connectivity, and a safe and comfortable neighbourhood, two areas often come up in this search. They are Uttara and Basunadhara Residential Area.

Both are popular residential areas in Dhaka city. Though both provide modern living standards, they differ substantially in terms of location, lifestyle, cost, and future growth.

This comprehensive blog will help you compare these two locations side by side. By the end, you will know exactly which location matches your requirements and budget. This guideline is for all, whether you are an investor, a  professional, or a family.

Uttara vs Bashundhara R/A: Two Icons of Modern Dhaka Living

Uttara: Dhaka’s Most Established Planned Community

Uttara is one of the oldest and most planned residential areas in Dhaka. It is divided into several sectors, and each has its own character. For many years, Uttara has been a top choice for middle-class and upper-middle-class families. In this area, there are all the modern facilities, including hospitals, schools, parks, corporate offices, shopping malls, restaurants, etc.

Bashundhara R/A: The Rise of a Private Township

On the other side, Bashundhara R/A is a newer and privately developed township. This area is divided into different blocks. It is very close to the Gulshan and Baridhara diplomatic zone. Wide roadways, a well-planned layout, and modern facilities are the hallmarks of Bashundhara R/A. It has grown quickly over the past 20 years and is currently among Dhaka’s most popular locations.

Location & Connectivity

Location is one of the most important factors in property selection. Let’s review the connections between each area and the rest of Dhaka city.

Uttara: Gateway to the City with Airport at Your Doorstep

Uttara is situated in the northern part of Dhaka, along with the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway. The Dhaka airport is very close to Uttara, and this makes Uttara an ideal choice for frequent travelers and expatriates.

The Dhaka Metro Rail (MRT Line-6) has changed the area. It has connected Uttara with Agargaon and Motijheel faster than ever. Uttara will soon gain even more transit links. A dedicated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor is under construction, which will reduce travel time significantly between Uttara and Purbachal New City.

Over the following years, it is expected that this infrastructure development will boost the demand and value in Uttara.

Bashundhara R/A: Diplomatic Prestige Meets Urban Convenience

Bashundhara Residential Area is located very close to the Kuril Flyover, making travel easy to major destinations in Dhaka. Additionally, Bashundhara is situated near the upcoming metro rail extension lines, with an expectation of 6 stations. Analysts expect that the property demand and value in this area will increase significantly as the metro lines are expanded.

Bashundhara is directly connected with Mirpur, Dhaka Cantonment, and Nikunjo. The nearby Baridhara Diplomatic Zone also increases this area’s prestige and demand.

However, traffic jams around the Kuril intersection can be challenging during peak hours. You should keep in mind when making a decision.

Property Prices & Affordability

The cost of real estate in Dhaka is rising day-by-day. In 2024, construction costs increased by almost 20%. High cost of building materials like steel, cement, skilled labor, and definitely the demand lead to higher property prices.

Apartment Costs in Uttara

Uttara offers apartments with a wide range of prices. Here, the price depends on the sectors. Sectors 10-14 offer affordable apartments, featuring local markets surrounding. Sectors 16-18 near Diabari also have affordable apartments for around 6,500-12,000 Tk. per square feet. Under construction sites offer lower prices.

If you move to sector 1, 3, 4, or 7, the premium zones, they offer slightly more costly apartments with wider roads and mature neighborhoods. Here, the prices vary from 8,000 to 15,000 Tk. per square feet.

Actually, Uttara is for affordable prices with modern facilities, more mature neighborhoods, and a decent lifestyle. We have several ongoing projects at different key locations in Uttara. You may contact us to learn more.

Apartment Costs in Bashundhara R/A

Bashundhara R/A tends to have a higher cost than Uttara. Block levels are used to categorize Bashundhara R/A. A, B, and D are the costly blocks. Because they are very close to Pragati Sarani and the main entrance, they are well-designed. The apartment prices per square foot in these blocks range from BDT 11,000 to 16,000 Tk.

Blocks E, G, H, I, and J are very popular among middle-class families. In this area, development is almost 90% completed. You may find your next home with around 8,000 to 12,000 Tk. in these blocks.

Developing blocks like K, L, M, N, and P offers moder apartments at lower prices. The cost ranges from 7,000 to 10,000 Tk per square foot. South-facing flats have higher demand, resulting in a higher price.

Lifestyle & Daily Living

Uttara: A Self-Sufficient Urban Hub for Every Lifestyle

Depending on the area you select, daily life will seem very different. Both Uttara and Bashundhara R/A have a high standard of living compared to many areas of Dhaka city. As Uttara is one of the oldest towns, it has 8 public parks and several lakes in different sectors, making it a relaxed and family-friendly neighborhood. Diabari has a large open space that offers peaceful and stress-relieving afternoons for the residents.

All the necessary services are available in Uttara, such as hospitals, shopping malls, schools, universities, restaurants, etc. Large shopping malls include Rajlakshi Complex, Mascot Plaza, Uttara Shopping Complex, etc. You will find major restaurant chains like Pizza Hut, Domino’s, KFC, Take Out, etc.

On the other side, Uttara has a large number of corporate offices, making it an ideal choice for these officials. Overall, Uttara is a complete township necessary for families, bachelors, and officials.

Bashundhara R/A: Peaceful, Green, and Wonderfully Organized

The environment at Bashundhara R/A is more well-organized and peaceful. The roads are wider. Within the residential blocks, there is relatively no traffic. Here, open spaces and green places are more common. Bashundhara R/A is a great choice if you like a quieter, less formal setting.

Though Bashundhara is a quieter area, all the necessary services are available around it. Jamuna Future Park, South Asia’s largest shopping mall, is very close to the location. You will get whatever you need in JFP. Country’s top private universities, private hospitals, and gyms are just a few Kilometers from Bashundhara R/A. Actually, it is a city inside a city.

Education: Schools & Universities

Both areas have top schools, colleges, and universities. For this reason, well-educated families prefer these locations.

In Uttara, there are several Bangla medium and English medium schools, such as Rajuk Uttara Model College, Uttara High School, Milestone College, Aga Khan School, Scholastica, Mastermind, Sunbeams, etc. Top universities include Uttara University, BUFT, WUB, etc.

In Bashundhara R/A, top schools include Aga Khan Academy, International School Dhaka, HURDCO International School, Playpen, Sunnudale School, etc. Top private universities are located around this area, including NSU, IUB, AIUB, UIU, etc.

No Public universities are there in either of them. But Bashundhara R/A has more private universities than Uttara does.

Healthcare Facilities

Living in an urban area requires access to modern medical facilities. Top-of-the hospitals are accessible to residents in both areas.

Uttara has several reputable medical institutions. There are medical colleges like Shaheed Monsur Ali Medical College, Uttara Adhunik Medical College and Hospital, other modern institutions, including Ahsania Mission Cancer & General Hospital, Kuwait Bangladesh Friendship Government Hospital, and Uttara Crescent Hospital.

Evercare Hospital, one of the leading private medical institutions, is located next to Bashundhara R/A. There are some other top-tier hospitals, including Bashundhara Eye Hospital and Research Institute, United Hospital (Baridhara), Apollo Hospital, etc.

Safety & Security

Safety is a major concern for any homeowner. Both areas are well-known for safety and security. Generally, Uttara is regarded as having a family-friendly society and low crime rates. Residents have been living there for years in heredity. Most of the local roads are gated and locked late at night to control vehicle entrance. Security and safety are maintained by the police and the local community.

Bashundhara is also a safer area. Roads are gated, and buildings and roads are under CCTV surveillance. Though residents are new there, they have a strong bond and community. Bashundhara R/A provides a unique advantage for families who prefer a safe and quiet home.

Pros & Cons: Strengths and Trade-Offs of Each Area

Uttara

Bashundhara

Conclusion

Both Uttara and Bashundhara R/A are great options for your next residence in Dhaka. Which option is the best depends on your priority and budget.

If you want better affordability, airport access, and a well-connected urban lifestyle, choose Uttara. If you prioritize space, safety, greenery, and a quieter environment, Bashundhara Residential Area is the best option for you.

Ready to look for your ideal home? Make the best move by getting in touch with GLG Assets right now.