Area Code 25 – Dhaka

Geographic Overview

The area code 25 is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the central zone of Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. It is part of the country's E.164 numbering plan, where the full international dialing format is +880 25 XXX XXX. This code serves the administrative and commercial heart of Dhaka, including key districts such as Motijheel, Paltan, and parts of the old city. As a fixed-line prefix, it is primarily used by PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) operators, including Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Limited (BTCL) and other licensed fixed-line carriers.

Dialing Formats

For callers within Bangladesh, the local dialing format is 02 25 XXX XXX (the leading '0' is the trunk prefix). For international callers, the format is +880 25 XXX XXX (omit the leading '0'). For example, a Dhaka central number might be dialed as +880 25 123 456 from abroad. It is important to note that Bangladesh has adopted an open dialing plan for fixed lines, and the trunk prefix '0' is always required for domestic calls to this area code.

Administrative and Geographic Coverage

The 25 area code is allocated to the Dhaka South City Corporation area, which includes major business hubs, government offices, and historical landmarks. It is distinct from other Dhaka area codes such as 22 (northwest), 23 (northeast), 24 (southwest), and 26 (southeast), which were introduced to accommodate the growing demand for telephone numbers in the capital. This segmentation allows for more efficient number allocation and local call routing.

Overlay and Number Portability

As of the latest ITU-T recommendations, there is no overlay code for the 25 area code; it remains a standalone geographic code. However, Bangladesh has implemented number portability for fixed-line services, meaning that a subscriber may retain their 25 number even if they relocate outside the central Dhaka zone, provided the operator supports it. This can occasionally lead to a mismatch between the area code and the physical location of the subscriber.

Caller Instructions

For local callers within Dhaka, dialing the 8-digit subscriber number after the area code is mandatory. For callers from other cities in Bangladesh, dial 02 25 XXX XXX. For international callers, always use +880 25 XXX XXX. Ensure that you replace the '+' with your country's international access code (e.g., 011 from the US, 00 from most European countries) when dialing from a landline. Mobile users can typically use the '+' symbol directly.

When dialing from a mobile phone, the call will be routed as a local call if you are within Bangladesh, but international rates apply when dialing from abroad. It is advisable to check with your service provider for applicable tariffs.