Women-led 'Dhaka Night Market' lights up city evenings ahead of Eid

Dhaka's usual post-sunset fatigue gave way to a vibrant cultural and commercial hub as the "Dhaka Night Market," organised by women's development organisation Nibedita, transformed an upscale city venue into a bustling festival of entrepreneurship, food and entertainment ahead of Eid-ul-Adha.

The two-day entrepreneurship showcase wraps up tonight at the Sheraton Dhaka. Operating from 2pm to 2am since Friday, the event features over 100 entrepreneurs – predominantly women – displaying a diverse array of products, including fashion, jewellery, handmade crafts, and skincare, alongside food stalls and live cultural performances.

The initiative turned into a lively urban gathering space for families, students and young professionals, offering a rare blend of shopping and social experience in the capital.

Entrepreneurs said the platform provided crucial visibility for small businesses that primarily operate online.

"Our communication with Nibedita has been very good and they are highly cooperative. Sales usually increase after evening hours," said a participant from Fashion Tunnel. "However, this year people are spending less due to the economic reality."

Another entrepreneur, Humayra Kabir, said such events help small businesses connect directly with customers. "We mostly operate online, so opportunities to directly connect with customers are limited. Events like this are very important for us," she said.

The fair highlighted strong participation from women-led businesses, featuring home décor products, clothing and handmade food items. Several male entrepreneurs also took part.

Entrepreneur Mohammad Abu Sadeq said his leather brand participated in multiple exhibitions, noting that Bangladeshi leather products have strong international potential.

"Bangladesh is ahead in leather quality. We have brought products inspired by Italy, Japan and Europe," he said.

Nibedita representative Anika Islam said the night market concept was first introduced during Ramadan and later expanded for Eid-ul-Adha to support women entrepreneurs.

"More than 100 women entrepreneurs are participating here with different items. There are also food stalls and entertainment zones for children," she said, adding that the initiative aims to enhance business exposure for women-led enterprises.

Visitors also enjoyed the festive atmosphere, with many spending time at food stalls serving fuchka, burgers, coffee and local snacks.

"I didn't really come with a shopping plan. I'm mostly enjoying the food," said visitor Nafi Hasan.