Dhaka recorded the world’s highest air pollution level on Monday, March 23, 2026, despite the city being largely empty during the long Eid holiday. According to data from Switzerland-based air quality monitoring organization IQAir, the capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 188, categorizing the air as unhealthy for all residents. The report placed Dhaka at the top among cities in 127 countries.

IQAir’s 10:30 a.m. reading showed Beijing in second place with an AQI of 178, followed by Wuhan at 154, Kampala at 153, and Baghdad at 148. The organization regularly measures global air quality using the AQI system, which indicates pollution levels and associated health risks.

IQAir’s report identified fine particulate matter as the main source of Dhaka’s pollution. The high concentration of these particles poses serious health threats, including respiratory and heart diseases, and long-term risks such as cancer.