UAE pardon of Nepali inmates: Nepal thanks UAE after 128 pardons granted during Ramadan
Nepal welcomes UAE pardon of Nepali inmates, expressing gratitude for the release of 128 nationals pardoned during the Holy Month of Ramadan as a humanitarian gesture. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the decision followed a formal request made through Nepal’s embassy in Abu Dhabi. Kathmandu described the move as a sign of cordial bilateral relations and relief for families of those released.
Nepal formally acknowledges UAE gesture
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a formal statement on April 16 thanking the Government of the United Arab Emirates for granting the pardons. Nepal framed the action as a humanitarian measure and an expression of goodwill during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Officials said the gesture reinforces longstanding diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The statement underlined that the pardon was the result of diplomatic engagement and conveyed appreciation on behalf of the Nepali government and affected families. Kathmandu noted the importance of consular channels in securing clemency for citizens abroad. The ministry characterized the development as a positive step for bilateral cooperation.
Details of the pardons and timing
A total of 128 Nepali inmates were included in the pardon announced by UAE authorities, according to the Nepali foreign ministry. The pardons were granted on the occasion of Ramadan, a period during which many countries extend clemency as an act of compassion. Nepal confirmed the number and timing in the ministry’s press release.
Officials did not provide a full breakdown of offenses or the locations where the inmates were detained, but emphasized that the decision was taken on humanitarian grounds. The release aligns with similar practices in the region during religious observances that carry themes of mercy and reconciliation. Families in Nepal are reportedly preparing for the return of those granted clemency.
Role of the Embassy of Nepal in Abu Dhabi
Nepal said the pardons followed a request it submitted through its embassy in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the embassy’s active role in consular advocacy. The diplomatic mission facilitated communication with UAE authorities and coordinated necessary documentation on behalf of detainees. Kathmandu credited embassy staff with expediting the process and liaising with local counterparts.
Embassy officials continue to assist with post-release arrangements, including travel, paperwork, and coordination with families in Nepal. Consular teams are expected to work with UAE authorities on deportation or repatriation logistics where applicable. The ministry reiterated that protecting citizens overseas remains a core priority of Nepal’s diplomatic service.
Humanitarian framing and Ramadan context
Nepal described the pardon explicitly as a humanitarian act, noting the cultural and religious context of Ramadan as influential in the UAE’s decision. During Ramadan, many Muslim-majority countries and communities undertake acts of charity and mercy, and pardons are sometimes extended in that spirit. Nepal’s foreign ministry welcomed the alignment of that tradition with the needs of its citizens.
Officials said the gesture will ease the emotional and financial burden on the families of those detained, and may expedite their reintegration into communities back home. The move was framed as consistent with international norms that allow for clemency in exceptional circumstances. Kathmandu also expressed hope for continued cooperation on consular cases involving Nepali nationals.
Potential impact on migrant community and bilateral ties
The pardons have significance for Nepal’s large migrant worker community in the Gulf, where labor migration is a key economic lifeline for many families. Nepal’s economy depends heavily on remittances, and consular support in cases of detention or legal difficulty is a longstanding concern for policymakers. The ministry’s acknowledgement signals an intent to strengthen protections and diplomatic channels for Nepali nationals abroad.
Bilateral relations between Nepal and the UAE encompass labour, investment, and people-to-people links, and the ministry said the pardon reinforces mutual goodwill. Observers in Kathmandu view the development as likely to sustain cooperation on consular issues, labour mobility and bilateral engagement. Nepal expressed readiness to continue constructive dialogue with UAE authorities to prevent and resolve future cases.
The Government of Nepal said it would maintain communication with families and the embassy to ensure smooth reintegration for those returning home, while continuing to provide consular support where required. The ministry’s expression of gratitude underscores both the human impact of individual cases and the diplomatic mechanisms that address them.