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Nepal and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have discussed strengthening bilateral trade, investment and tourism cooperation while exploring new avenues to deepen economic ties between the two countries.
Nepali business leader Chandra Prasad Dhakal held a meeting with H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, during his visit to the UAE. The meeting focused on expanding economic cooperation and creating greater opportunities for investment and business engagement between Nepal and the UAE.
During the meeting, Dhakal and Al Zeyoudi discussed measures to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment and deepen economic relations between the two countries. They also exchanged views on high-level visits and greater engagement between the public and private sectors to maintain momentum in bilateral cooperation.
Dhakal also highlighted the importance of strengthening the investment framework to provide investors with greater regulatory clarity, certainty and confidence.
The discussions come as Nepal and the UAE prepare to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year. Dhakal welcomed the UAE minister’s vision to commemorate the Golden Jubilee with landmark celebrations and expressed support for initiatives that could further strengthen relations between the two countries.
Air connectivity was another key issue discussed during the meeting.
Dhakal welcomed the launch of direct Flydubai flights connecting the UAE with Pokhara, describing the service as an important development for tourism and connectivity between the two countries.
He also requested the initiation of direct air services between the UAE and Bhairahawa. Such connectivity would provide a direct gateway to Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, and could contribute to increased tourist arrivals from the UAE and other international markets.
Improved air connectivity is expected to support tourism, facilitate business travel and strengthen people-to-people links between Nepal and the UAE.
Dhakal also invited UAE investors to explore investment opportunities in Nepal’s high-potential sectors.
He highlighted hydropower, agriculture, information technology and data centres as areas with significant investment potential. He also encouraged UAE investors to consider high-end tourism infrastructure projects, including cable cars and ski resorts.
According to Dhakal, greater investment from the UAE could contribute to Nepal’s economic development while providing investors with opportunities in emerging sectors.
The meeting reflects growing efforts to expand Nepal-UAE economic cooperation beyond traditional trade and labour migration, with greater emphasis on investment, tourism, infrastructure, connectivity and private-sector engagement.
