Dutch Bangla Bank Routing Numbers
What Is a Dutch-Bangla Bank Routing Number?
A Dutch-Bangla Bank routing number is a 9-digit code that identifies the exact branch where a DBBL account is held within Bangladesh's payment infrastructure. Every domestic transfer processed through BEFTN, NPSB, or RTGS uses this code to route funds to the correct branch automatically.
The 9 digits encode 3 distinct pieces of information:
- Bank code (first 3 digits): Always 090 for every Dutch-Bangla Bank branch in Bangladesh
- District code (next 2 digits): Identifies the district where the branch operates, such as 26 for Dhaka or 15 for Chittagong
- Branch code (final 4 digits): Identifies the specific branch within that district
Two DBBL branches in the same district share the same bank code and district code but differ in their final 4 digits. Sending to the wrong routing number sends funds to the wrong branch, and under RTGS rules, that transaction cannot be reversed.
How to Use Your DBBL Routing Number
How a DBBL routing number is used depends on 3 transfer types, each with different requirements.
BEFTN and NPSB (local transfers)
To send via BEFTN or NPSB, log into your bank's internet banking, select Fund Transfer, choose Other Bank, and enter 2 pieces of information:
- The recipient's 9-digit DBBL routing number
- The recipient's DBBL account number
No SWIFT code is needed for either system. NPSB settles near-instantly. BEFTN settles on the next business day.
RTGS (high-value local transfers)
RTGS requires the routing number plus the recipient branch's SWIFT code. DBBL's base SWIFT code is DBBLBDDH, with a branch-specific suffix, confirm the full suffix directly with the recipient branch before sending. RTGS payments settle the same day and are irrevocable once processed. Bangladesh Bank regulations place full liability for instruction errors on the sender, with no reversal mechanism available regardless of the error amount.
Receiving money from abroad
To receive an international wire transfer into a DBBL account, provide the sender with 4 pieces of information:
- Bank name: Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited
- SWIFT/BIC code: DBBLBDDH (plus branch suffix, confirm with your branch)
- Your 9-digit branch routing number
- Your full account number and registered account name
DBBL processes inward SWIFT transfers within a few hours on Bangladeshi banking days and converts incoming foreign currency to BDT at the rate applied at the moment the funds clear.
How to Verify Your Routing Number Before Sending
4 methods confirm a DBBL routing number before any transfer:
- Cheque leaf: The 9-digit routing number is printed along the bottom of every DBBL cheque, directly below the account number
- DBBL internet banking: Log into internet banking, navigate to Account Details, and the routing number appears alongside your branch name
- Branch phone call: Call your specific DBBL branch directly (not the central helpline) and ask: "What is the routing number for this branch?"
- Bangladesh Bank official directory: Bangladesh Bank publishes a complete routing number registry on its website at bangladeshbank.org.bd
Cross-referencing at least 2 sources before an RTGS transfer eliminates the liability risk from instruction errors.
Receiving USD as a Freelancer or Remote Worker
Bangladeshi freelancers receiving USD from foreign clients, Upwork, Fiverr, or foreign employers face a specific limitation with DBBL routing numbers. Routing numbers operate within Bangladesh's domestic payment rails. International senders wire through the SWIFT network using DBBL's SWIFT code, and DBBL converts the incoming USD to BDT at the rate applied at clearing. The freelancer does not choose the conversion rate or timing.
Some Bangladeshi freelancers use an nsave account alongside their DBBL account to address this. nsave is a fintech platform that provides people from Bangladesh with USD payment account details on the US ACH network. A freelancer gives clients the nsave US account details for dollar payments, holds earnings in USD, and transfers to a local Bangladeshi account when preferred rather than at the moment of receipt.
nsave is not a bank. Accounts held with nsave are not protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). Customer funds are held in regulated UK and EEA financial institutions, separated from company funds, and protected through safeguarding rules designed for electronic money services.
The information in this article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice from nsave or any of its affiliates. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified financial adviser. We make no representations or warranties, whether expressed or implied, that the content is accurate, complete, or up to date.
Fees, exchange rates, incentives, and product availability may change and can vary by user and jurisdiction. Examples are illustrative only. Before making any financial decisions, seek advice from a qualified financial adviser who can assess your individual circumstances and objectives.
nsave helps freelancers and professionals from Bangladesh, Nigeria, Pakistan, Egypt, and other emerging markets receive and manage USD abroad. As a non-bank payment provider, your money is not protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). Customer funds are held in regulated, UK and EEA financial institutions, separated from company funds, and protected through safeguarding rules designed for electronic money services.
