Kathmandu is on high alert as tensions escalate in the Middle East, with over 1.7 million Nepali expatriates living across 12 countries in the volatile region. The Nepal government has ramped up safety measures for its citizens amid the intensifying conflict between the United States and Iran.
The crisis deepened after Iran retaliated against joint US-Israel strikes by targeting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE, and Bahrain. These Gulf nations host a massive Nepali workforce, whose remittances form a lifeline for Nepal’s economy, contributing billions annually.
In a press briefing, Foreign Ministry Joint Secretary Ram Kazi Khadka revealed that 1,729,288 Nepalis are legally residing in the region. The UAE tops the list with around 700,000, followed by Saudi Arabia (384,865), Kuwait (175,000), Iraq (30,000), Bahrain (28,000), Oman (25,000), Cyprus (17,000), Israel (6,500), Lebanon (1,500), Egypt (500), and Iran (6).
Of the handful in Iran, four have already returned home safely, while the remaining six are preparing to evacuate. No casualties among Nepalis have been reported so far, but the government is leaving no stone unturned.
Prioritizing citizen safety, authorities issued a travel advisory urging Nepalis to stay indoors, remain vigilant, and avoid unnecessary travel. A WhatsApp coordination group linking the ministry and Nepali embassies in West Asia has been activated for real-time updates.
Contingency plans include evacuation coordination with neighboring countries if the situation worsens. Officials recalled how India airlifted nine Nepalis from Iran during last year’s 12-day Israel-Iran war, noting Nepal lacks an embassy in Tehran.
Nepal is also gearing up to collaborate with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other global bodies for seamless rescue operations if needed. The nation has voiced deep concern over the escalating violence, calling on all parties to exercise restraint, protect civilians, and resolve disputes through diplomacy and dialogue.
As the world watches the Middle East powder keg, Nepal’s proactive stance underscores the human stakes for small nations reliant on migrant labor.