A top destination for Nepali workers — hotels, security, retail, construction, drivers and office jobs. Work only; no PR.
Why Nepalis go: Many jobs, tax-free salary, close to Nepal, and a big Nepali community.
The catch: No permanent residence for ordinary workers. Low-skilled pay can be just AED 1,000–1,500 a month, and summer heat is extreme.
Most common route: Licensed agency → employer work visa → Nepal labour permit.
Employer work visa (UAE)
A UAE employer sends a 'demand' to a licensed Nepali agency. You are selected, get a visa through your employer, and must get a Nepal labour permit before flying.
Who it's for: Workers of all skill levels — construction, security, hotels, cleaning, drivers, retail, factories, and skilled jobs.
Cost: Under Nepal's 'free visa, free ticket' rule the employer should pay visa and air ticket, and agencies may charge at most Rs 10,000 service fee. You pay medical, orientation, insurance and welfare fund. In practice many workers are asked for much more — always ask for a receipt.
Time: 1–3 months.
Stay: Usually a 2-year contract, renewable.
Family: Only for higher-paid jobs that meet a minimum salary.
Leads to permanent residence: No. Gulf countries don't give permanent residence to ordinary workers (only rare long-term 'golden' visas for wealthy or highly skilled people).
Scams to avoid
Going on a visit/tourist visa to find work is illegal for Nepalis and leaves you without labour-permit insurance or protection.
If you pay more than the legal fee, insist on a receipt — it is your evidence for a complaint at DoFE or the Foreign Employment Tribunal.
Check the job, salary and company match the demand letter approved in Nepal before you fly.