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Lately, the bilateral relationship between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Nepal has transformed into a robust, multifaceted strategic alliance, encompassing key areas such as trade, labor mobility, cultural exchange, and infrastructure development. This partnership reflects both nations’ commitment to sustainable development, economic resilience, and mutual prosperity.  

A recent milestone in this growing relationship came with the visit of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs. During his visit, he met with Nepal’s President Ram Chandra Poudel and Deputy Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh, signaling a deepened diplomatic engagement and a forward-looking partnership between the two countries. 

Abdulla Saeed Mubarak Jarwan Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to Nepal, has led key diplomatic missions, including facilitating the visit of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, strengthening UAE-Nepal relations through mutual understanding and collaboration. The trade between the UAE and Nepal has experienced impressive growth, with the UAE now emerging as Nepal’s primary trade partner within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). In 2023, UAE’s export to Nepal was $265.76m and key products were gold, computers, copper wire, machinery and plastics. Similarly, Nepal’s export to UAE stood at $4.56m and key export items were handwoven carpets, tea, spices and medicinal herbs.

Over the past two years, bilateral trade has grown by 7.8 percent. Nepal continues to focus on expanding its agricultural and natural product exports to meet the rising demand in the UAE market. Labor migration remains a cornerstone of the UAE-Nepal partnership. As of 2024, over 225,000 Nepalese nationals are employed in various sectors across the UAE, contributing significantly to both economies. The breakdown of employment sectors is as follows: construction: 40 percent; hospitality: 25 percent; retail/logistics: 20 percent and healthcare/domestic work: 15 percent.  In 2025, remittances from the UAE to Nepal reached $7.74bn, accounting for 24 percent of Nepal’s GDP. These funds play a crucial role in supporting education, healthcare, and rural infrastructure development across Nepal.

Air connectivity between the UAE and Nepal continues to strengthen. Flydubai operates 28 weekly flights between Dubai and Kathmandu, facilitating robust travel links. Additionally, a new daily route to Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa, set to launch in Nov 2024, will enhance access to Lumbini, Nepal’s religious tourism hub, further strengthening bilateral tourism ties. The future of UAE-Nepal relations holds immense potential, particularly in the following sectors such as urban development, renewable energy, and technology and digital trade.

The UAE’s expertise in smart city projects complements Nepal’s Vision 2040, aimed at modernizing urban infrastructure.  There is significant potential for collaboration between the UAE’s solar energy initiatives and Nepal’s untapped hydropower resources. Nepal’s rapidly growing tech and e-commerce sectors present new opportunities for UAE investors seeking to explore digital trade and innovation.

The UAE is home to over 225,000 Nepali expatriates, whose presence strengthens cultural ties between the two nations.  The UAE’s labor diplomacy initiatives have focused on protecting workers' rights and promoting skills development, allowing Nepalese nationals to build sustainable careers and contribute to both the UAE and Nepal’s economic growth. 

The UAE-Nepal relationship has evolved into a multifaceted partnership based on economic resilience, human capital empowerment, infrastructure development, cultural exchange and diplomacy.  This evolving alliance embodies the shared vision of both countries for a brighter, more prosperous future. Through their continued collaboration, the UAE and Nepal are paving the way for long-term success and setting an example of mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared commitment to global prosperity.

For centuries, marijuana has been part of Nepal’s cultural landscape. However, the 1976 ban on its production and consumption has deprived the country of a significant opportunity—not only in tourism and the economy but, more importantly, in accessing its medical benefits. In earlier times, sadhus and yogis used marijuana for religious and medicinal purposes. Nepal was once renowned for its legendary Himalayan cannabis, and Kathmandu’s streets were a haven for tourists and hippies from around the world.

Legalizing cannabis is complex, particularly due to the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding its use. Research shows that its medical benefits emerge not from smoking but from refined and processed forms. Despite growing evidence, it remains illegal and widely misunderstood. Medicinal cannabis can aid in pain relief, reduce inflammation, manage anxiety and depression, treat epilepsy and seizures, improve sleep, and help with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

As scientific studies increasingly confirm marijuana’s therapeutic value, Nepal should reconsider its stance—not to encourage unregulated use, but to harness its vast medical and economic potential.

Globally, perceptions of marijuana are shifting. Over 40 countries, including Germany, Thailand, and several US states, have decriminalized or legalized cannabis for medical use. From chronic pain to neurological disorders, its therapeutic applications are driving reform. Studies highlight cannabis’s effectiveness in easing symptoms of multiple sclerosis and controlling seizures in epilepsy.

A major breakthrough came when research confirmed the medical potential of cannabinoids, particularly CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). These compounds have proven effective in managing chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. CBD, which lacks the psychoactive effects of THC, has shown promise in treating conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Nepal’s unique geography and climate make it ideal for cultivating high-quality cannabis. Reintroducing marijuana into the formal economy—strictly for medical use—could offer a valuable economic edge. Legal cultivation could empower farmers, generate export revenue, and create jobs. Despite calls for legalization, the government has yet to take concrete steps, largely due to the outdated 1976 Narcotic Drugs (Control) Act, which still classifies cannabis as illegal. This legislation remains a significant barrier to reform.

Ironically, during Shivaratri—a major Hindu festival—marijuana use is normalized, highlighting a contradiction where illegality exists only on paper. So how can we normalize it in law?

In regions like Rolpa, Rukum, and remote parts of Karnali Province, wild cannabis already grows in abundance. With proper cultivation practices, Nepal could supply high-grade medical marijuana for domestic and global markets. The global legal cannabis market was valued at $21bn in 2023 and is projected to grow by 25.7 percent annually through 2030. For a developing country like Nepal, in search of sustainable revenue sources amid economic uncertainty, marijuana may very well be the “green gold” waiting to be refined.

The benefits of medical marijuana span multiple sectors—from farmers, vendors, and logistics providers to healthcare systems, patients, and the government. Legalization could empower local communities and drive job creation. A regulated cannabis economy could open new revenue streams through taxation, exports, and pharmaceutical partnerships, significantly contributing to GDP growth.

Beyond boosting state revenues, legalization could generate employment across the entire supply chain—from cultivation and processing to research, transportation, and retail. Medical cannabis also offers the public a sense of reassurance. As disillusionment grows with the side effects of chemical-based medications, many are turning toward plant-based, herbal alternatives.

Medical cannabis provides natural and, in many cases, more effective treatment for a range of physical and mental health conditions. This shift not only supports public health and economic gains but also fosters innovation in Nepal’s herbal and pharmaceutical industries.

A proposed bill remains stalled, largely due to the outdated 1976 Act and fears of international backlash. Nonetheless, within Nepal, researchers, experts, and policymakers increasingly advocate for legalization. In fact, whichever political party champions and executes the bill may gain a competitive political advantage. Public support—especially among the youth—is growing rapidly. However, misconceptions persist. Many still confuse the medical benefits of cannabis with recreational smoking, which is misleading. Medical cannabis involves administering refined compounds like CBD and THC in precise, controlled doses—not raw or smoked forms.

The Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) was founded in 2003 during a turbulent period in Nepal’s history. Amid the Maoist insurgency and deepening political instability, a group of dedicated Nepalis living abroad came together in Kathmandu to create a global organization that would represent the interests of the diaspora and serve as a vital link to their homeland. 

The founding principles were centered on unity, inclusion and service. One of their first and most poignant demands was for dual citizenship—a legal recognition of the emotional and cultural ties that many Nepalis abroad continue to hold even after acquiring foreign citizenship. This request was more than a legal issue; it was about identity, belonging and the enduring connection to one’s roots.
Despite the strong start and noble intentions, the NRNA’s journey has not been without challenges. As Nepal transitioned from a monarchy to a republic and experienced various waves of political change, the NRNA too began to experience internal discord. Leadership rivalries, political interference and factionalism began to weaken the organization's unity.

Some leaders were perceived to be prioritizing personal gain over community service, eroding the trust and credibility the NRNA once commanded. Moreover, the Government of Nepal repeatedly failed to deliver on key promises—most notably the introduction of dual citizenship and diaspora-friendly investment policies. This lack of follow-through not only discouraged active participation from the diaspora but also deepened the divide between the homeland and its global citizens. 

I strongly emphasize that the time has come for sincere introspection. This is not a call to assign blame, but a collective appeal to revisit the founding ideals of the NRNA. Reform is no longer optional—it is essential. Without a structural and philosophical overhaul, the organization risks becoming irrelevant. To restore credibility and purpose, the NRNA must prioritize transparency, inclusiveness and democratic governance. The vision must be reignited, not just with words but with visible actions that rebuild public confidence and inspire the younger generation of diaspora Nepalis. 

A major critique raised is the overly broad and simplistic definition of the NRNA’s constituency—Nepalis who have lived abroad for more than 180 days. This definition fails to cultivate  the rich diversity within the diaspora community. 

From blue-collar migrant workers in the Gulf to settled professionals in Europe to business leaders and academics in the USA, the needs and aspirations of each group vary greatly. Trying to serve such a diverse population with a one-size-fits-all approach is ineffective. In this situation, I  recommend that the NRNA adopt a segmented approach by creating specialized committees and empowering local chapters to better represent their unique communities. Diversity should be seen not as a challenge, but as a strength that can be harnessed for broader impact. 

Dual citizenship remains one of the most important and emotionally resonant issues for the diaspora. Many who have taken foreign citizenship still feel a strong cultural and familial connection to Nepal. They wish to maintain this bond—not just symbolically, but legally and practically. 

These individuals are often highly educated, financially capable and deeply committed to contributing to Nepal’s growth through investment, mentorship, transformation of knowledge and innovation. However, current Nepali laws make their involvement complicated, with vague policies, unclear legal frameworks and the looming threat of double taxation. I argue that these individuals are not asking for special privileges but rather a framework that acknowledges their desire to contribute meaningfully to Nepal’s future. I would like to suggest long-term visas, clear legal protections for investments and the right to retire peacefully in Nepal as achievable and impactful policy measures. 

Concrete proposals for change 

Structural and governance reforms: Form an independent election commission to ensure fair and transparent leadership elections. Introduce term limits and eligibility criteria to prevent monopolization of leadership. Promote inclusiveness by creating dedicated roles and committees for women, youth, migrant workers and professionals. 

Decentralization: Give more authority to national coordination councils and NRNA chapters to address region-specific issues effectively.  Avoid overly centralized leadership, which often becomes detached from grassroots concerns. Decentralization will encourage innovation and ownership at all levels. 

Transparency and accountability: Publish financial reports regularly and conduct independent audits of projects and events. Establish formal systems for member feedback, grievances and dispute resolution to ensure internal democracy and trust. 

Cultural engagement: Support efforts to preserve the Nepali language, heritage and traditions among second-generation NRNs. Encourage educational and cultural exchange programs that allow younger generations to visit Nepal and understand their roots. 

Facilitate investment and return: Advocate for simplified investment policies and legal guarantees that attract diaspora entrepreneurs. Promote NRN-friendly residential areas, business zones and retirement homes that provide a welcoming environment for returning expatriates.

Forge global partnerships: Build strategic relationships with international organizations, think tanks, and universities. Leverage NRNA’s global presence to amplify Nepal’s voice on the world stage and open doors for collaboration and development aid. 

The NRNA was founded on the dream of unity and national contribution, and while its journey has encountered setbacks, the vision remains as relevant as ever. The Nepali diaspora is a treasure trove of knowledge, talent and resources. Reforming the NRNA to better serve this community is not just a strategic move—it is a necessity. If reformed with care and vision, the NRNA can once again become the vital bridge between Nepal and its global citizens, fostering not just emotional ties, but tangible progress for generations to come. 

We all want our food to be delicious and, if possible, we wouldn’t mind gourmet meals every single time. That is probably why restaurants thrive in Nepal. We love eating good food but we don’t want to put in the effort it takes to bring that meal to our tables. We mean, what wouldn’t we give to be able to hire a chef at home, as many celebrities tend to do, and not have to do all the prepping and cooking? But it’s not possible for various reasons and we have to live with that. But does that mean we have to eat boring food whenever we want a quick snack? The answer is a resounding no. We bring to you some tried and tested ideas that are super easy to make, take less than 30 minutes, and are mouth-wateringly delicious.

Cheese potato bites

India’s celebrity chef Ranveer Brar said in an interview that the one thing you should always have in your fridge is boiled potatoes. You can make so many things with it in just a few minutes whenever you want something quick to eat. For these simple cheese potato bites, that is one of our favorites, all you have to do is peel some boiled potatoes and slice them thinly. Grease a pan with olive oil, put a layer of potatoes on top, sprinkle some salt, pepper, and oregano(and/or chili flakes if you prefer), grate some cheese over it and repeat the process a few times and then bake this in the oven for 20 minutes at medium heat. Have this hot out of the oven with some barbecue sauce or as it is. It’s yummy and filling.

Cucumber on crackers

The good news is this involves zero cooking. All you need are three things: crackers, cucumbers, and cheese. Lay the crackers on a plate and top them with sliced cucumbers. Make sure you have thoroughly washed the cucumbers and peeled them beforehand. Cut cheese into small thin slices if you are using a block of cheese or simply strip sliced cheese into small bits and put them over the cucumber slices. Your final product should have three layers: crackers at the bottom, cucumber slices in the middle, and cheese on top. If you use cream cheese instead of cheese, then the cucumber goes on top of the cream cheese which goes on top of the cracker. You can put an olive on top of the cheese if you have some on hand or skip this and it will taste just as good. This simple snack that just needs some minor assembling is quick to make and refreshing. The crunch of the cracker and the softness of the cheese balance out the texture and flavor making it a fun food to munch on.

Carrot sticks and hummus

Hummus is a simple dish made of chickpeas, lemon, garlic, tahini, and some basic spices. You can buy it at different stores but homemade hummus is fresh and tastes a whole lot better than packaged ones. It’s simple to make as well. You can use soaked and boiled chickpeas or use canned chickpeas depending on how much time you have. First mix lemon and tahini (you can get good quality tahini at most department stores) in a food processor and blend it until you get a smooth paste. Then add garlic, olive oil, and chickpeas and blend until smooth again. You can peel the chickpeas for a smoother hummus but not peeling them works as well. Add a little bit of cold water or ice cubes if you have them and blend for a minute and your hummus is ready. Peel and cut carrots into sticks and you can use these as spoons to eat the hummus. This rich in protein and fiber snack is great when you are feeling hungry and need something to tide you over till dinner.

Easy garlic bread

This is a revamped version of the classic cheese on toast idea but it’s a 100 times better than regular toast with cheese. Melt some butter and add crushed garlic, sliced green chili. Add salt if you are using unsalted butter or else skip it. You can also add some chili flakes to give it a bit of color. Slather this on top of bread slices and then top it with grated cheese. If you like onion, then finely chop one and sprinkle it on top of the cheese. Lightly grease a tray and put the bread slices on it and let it bake in the oven for 15 minutes on medium heat. The result is a crunchy garlic bread that you can have with tea or some cold coffee. If you want this snack to be a bit on the heavier side, you can choose to add toppings like sausages or sweet corn and other veggies according to your preference. Use brown bread for a healthier, filling version of this snack or use white bread for a pizza-like appeal.

Peri peri makhana 

Makhana or fox nuts make for an excellent snack. It’s quite popular in India and Nepal too as it’s delicious and nutritious. You can enjoy this guilt free and as it can be quite filling, you won’t feel the need to reach for chocolates or biscuits in between meals. Simply dry roast makhana on a pan on medium heat until it looks crisp and crunchy. Transfer to a large tray and allow it to cool. Avoid adding ghee to it while roasting if you are trying to lose weight or else you can add a teaspoon of ghee to the pan. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from going stale. You can also wrap them in tissue paper or kitchen paper and store them in a ziplock bag. When you want a quick snack, transfer makhana into a container with a lid, only filling half of it. Add salt, pepper, and peri peri spice to it and give it a good shake and indulge in some guilt-free snacking.

Black gram salad

This is a popular Indian street food that you can enjoy hot or cold and it’s nutritious, filling, and delicious. You need some pre-prepping for it though. Soak a cup of black gram in water overnight and cook it for about four to five whistles in the pressure cooker the next morning. You can store this in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and use it while assembling a low effort salad. The salad is vegan and gluten free and can be served alongside lunch or dinner or eaten as a snack. Take some boiled black gram in a bowl, add chopped tomatoes, onion and coriander to it and give it a good mix. Add salt, pepper, chili, and some lemon juice and mix well. Serve with some crunchy bhujiya on the side and this balances out the texture of the dish. But it also works well on its own.

Strawberry smoothie

Smoothies have become quite popular in recent times. Almost every other restaurant has some version of this healthy drink on their menu. But smoothies can serve as a great snack as, depending on what goes in them, they can be quite filling. The one we are presenting here is a simple recipe for our all-time favorite, especially when strawberries are in season. You can also freeze strawberries to enjoy this all year round. In a blender, add three tablespoons of curd, five to six medium sized strawberries, half a banana, a teaspoon of chia seeds, and half a cup of water and blend till you get a smooth mixture. Transfer this to a bowl, top with nuts and seeds and serve. You can use ice instead of water if you want a slightly slushier version of this smoothie. We guarantee you will be making this smoothie over and over again.

Instant energy bars

You can buy all sorts of energy and protein bars today. The market is saturated with different brands offering all kinds of flavors. But we like to make ours at home. It’s simple, cost-effective, and filled with ingredients that we like. For a simple energy bar or ball, depending on which shape you mold it into, mix oats, some nuts like almonds or pistachio, and salt. Transfer this into a food processor and blend it and then add maple syrup and olive oil to it and blend it again. Remove and transfer to a tray lined with parchment paper. Press the dough evenly onto the paper. Top with coconut flakes or powder. Roughly chop some more of the same nuts that have gone into the batter and sprinkle them on top of the dough. Bake this for about 10 minutes on medium heat. Make sure you don’t over bake it and that the batter is still a little soft when done. Cut it into small squares when it cools down. You can store this in a sealed container for up to a week.

The best brownies

Who wouldn’t like dessert for a snack? And these brownies that we are about to teach you to make is the most delicious dessert you will have had. They are gooey and melt in your mouth and you can use store bought premixes for it too, thus shortening your time in the kitchen. Preheat the oven to 200 degree Celsius and add an egg, oil, and water as directed to a store bought cake mix. Fold this batter with a spatula but don’t over mix it either. Take seven to eight Oreo biscuits and roughly crush them. Add this to the cake batter. Then transfer the batter to a greased cake pan and bake for 30 to 40 minutes or till a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool and then cut into slices and indulge in this yummy goodness.

Peanut butter goodness

Craving a yummy snack but have only five minutes to prepare something? This is when a jar of peanut butter in your pantry can come in handy. Peanut butter is rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Thinly slice some apples and plate it along with a large dollop of peanut butter. Apple and peanut butter taste great together. Next, remove the pits of some soft dates, fill it with peanut butter and have a few the next time you are hungry. It is simple, filling, and dessert-like. Slather some peanut butter on some saltine crackers and you are good to go. Mix oats and peanut butter and make small balls out of them and bake in the oven for 10 minutes on medium heat. You can add a mashed ripe banana to the mix for some extra sweetness or if the peanut butter you are using doesn’t have added sugar in it already.