The Government of Nepal has temporarily halted the issuance of labor permits for 12 countries in the Middle East and Gulf region due to escalating regional tensions. From Monday onward, Nepali workers are barred from traveling for employment to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Iraq, Yemen, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, and Israel. Authorities say the measure is intended to protect the safety of Nepali citizens as the region becomes increasingly volatile. Although Nepal’s foreign exchange reserves currently cover around 18 months of imports, officials warn that a prolonged halt in overseas employment opportunities could strain the national economy and increase unemployment pressure at home.
