Cores of Dhaka city: area delimitation and comparison of their characteristics

City cores, widely known as central business districts, are the most important part of a city that is also considered as economic center or business administration point. Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is a mega city with ever-increasing population. Its gradual development pattern on the north has induced the growth of many cores. Being a small city with many cores, Dhaka possesses a unique characteristic that allows the functional area of these cores to hold characteristics of their own. This study aimed to find out the characteristic of these cores by identifying the functional area. Different studies mentioned Motijheel, Karwan Bazar, Gulshan–Banani, Mohakhali, and Mirpur as the city cores. The objectives of this study are to delimit the functional area of these cores by kernel density analysis on the basis of land-use concentration and compare the characteristics on the basis of space use, structure height, accessibility, and space rent. An updated GIS database of year 2016 has been used for this study. Kernel density and space index has been used in delimitating and determining the boundaries. Comparison of these cores has brought out their characteristics. These characteristics have showed that each of the cores has their own distinctive natures and properties. Therefore, these cores cannot be administered in a unified way. Considering this, the cores have been delimitated using observation on the basis of their characteristics. Development pattern of these areas needs to be monitored according to the present spatial condition of the city.