Nepalis in UAE are safe: Ambassador Chhetri

For the past three weeks, Israel and the United States have continued their attacks on Iran. Iran has also been responding accordingly. This heightened tensions in West Asia, particularly in the Gulf region. This has increased concern and anxiety among Nepalis living in Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where more than 500,000 Nepalis are employed. Himal Press spoke to Tej Bahadur Chhetri, the ambassador of Nepal to the UAE, to know about the situation of Nepalis in the UAE and the overall Gulf region. Excerpts:

What is the current security situation in the UAE and surrounding areas after the attacks on Iran?
As you are aware, there have been drone and missile attacks from Iran within the UAE. Although such attacks have targeted US military bases and surrounding areas, strong defence systems have ensured that daily life in major cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai remains normal. However, heightened alert has been maintained across the region. Airspace management has been tightened, while security personnel have been mobilized and surveillance increased in sensitive areas. While tensions are visible in some neighbouring regions, the UAE government has kept the situation under control. Reports suggest that attacks were aimed particularly at US bases within the UAE. From what we observe, the country is secure, despite occasional breaches and attacks.

Do you mean to say there has been no significant damage from such attacks in the UAE?
So far, the attacks within the UAE appear to have primarily targeted US bases. However, security forces here are on full alert. You are aware of the incident in which eight people, including one Nepali, lost their lives. So, it would not be accurate to say there has been no damage. That said, just as the UAE provides security to its own citizens, it is extending the same protection to us.

What is the current situation of Nepalis living in the UAE?
Nepalis in the UAE are safe, and work is continuing as usual. However, there is some psychological fear, especially due to unverified information circulating on social media. Rumors have caused concern among workers, particularly for their families back home. We have been continuously providing updates through the embassy and remain in close contact with the community. We have urged people to immediately contact the hotline, the ambassador, or officials if they face any problems. We are also disseminating information in Nepali.

I urge all Nepalis in the UAE to rely on official updates from the UAE government, the Nepali embassy, and the Non-Resident Nepali Association, rather than AI-generated videos or rumours.

How have Nepali tourists been affected? Are any stranded?
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the surrounding areas have recently become popular destinations for Nepali travellers. Some visit on tour packages, while others come to spend time with family. A few Nepali tourists were temporarily stranded due to sudden developments in the UAE and nearby regions. Some also faced difficulties during transit.
However, all of them have now been assisted and rerouted through alternative travel arrangements. The embassy, along with airlines, coordinated these efforts. Issues caused by partial flight disruptions and route changes have been resolved, and most travellers have reached their destinations via alternative flights.
If any problems arise, the embassy is committed to providing necessary coordination and assistance. We are always ready to serve our citizens.

What preparations has the embassy made for Nepalis?
We have activated emergency contact systems. Information is being disseminated through helplines, online platforms, and community networks. As you know, the Department of Consular Services under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has prepared a database of Nepalis living in the affected areas through a mobile application. We have also increased coordination with employers. Currently, Nepalis are not facing major problems.
However, a sense of fear is there. People are asking why the situation has not eased even after 20 days. What can we say? Major powers are involved. The Government of Nepal has already called for a resolution through dialogue. As a peace-loving nation, we hope for global peace and continue to contribute through the United Nations.
We have urged fellow Nepalis to remain calm and follow the official UAE government instructions. Patience and discipline are essential in moments like this. Panic will not help. We are counselling people accordingly.

How is the coordination between the governments of Nepal and the UAE? 
We are in constant contact with our Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE authorities. Coordination is ongoing at a high level to make necessary decisions based on the situation. Necessary preparations have been made to respond effectively in case of emergencies. However, it is not possible to bring all Nepalis back home at once, nor does everyone wish to return. Some Nepalis are prepared to go back.
In such situations, it is natural for airfares and food prices to rise. Prices have increased across sectors. However, markets are open and daily activities are continuing as usual. It does not feel like a full-scale war internally, but alerts triggered by incoming or intercepted missiles do increase fear.

What is your message to Nepalis in the UAE?
I request everyone to trust only official information. Instead of believing rumours on social media, people should rely on information provided on the embassy’s website. They should call the embassy and verify if they have any doubts. Since unnecessary rumours only heighten fear, people must remain cautious. If any problem arises, it is very important to contact the embassy immediately. We are here for Nepalis and are fully prepared to assist our brothers and sisters. We want to tell them that we are always by their side.