KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 16
Nepali doctors working in the United Arab Emirates have raised concerns over growing mental health issues among Nepali migrant workers, describing stress and depression as more prevalent than many physical illnesses.
The concerns were shared during an interaction programme organised by the Embassy of Nepal in Abu Dhabi on 13 February. Around 25 Nepali medical professionals working across Abu Dhabi and other Emirates participated in the discussion.
Doctors identified high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney-related ailments, workplace and traffic accidents, and women's health issues as common physical concerns. However, they noted that mental stress and depression appear in higher proportion among migrant workers. Participants attributed the situation to limited health awareness, reluctance to seek timely treatment, lack of clarity about health insurance coverage, language barriers, and insufficient understanding of environmental conditions in Gulf countries.
The doctors recommended mandatory health check-ups at least once every six months, better awareness of insurance provisions, adequate hydration, and reduced alcohol consumption. They also urged coordination with the Government of Nepal to introduce telemedicine services to support workers facing mental health challenges. Strengthening pre-departure orientation with modules on health, insurance, climate adaptation and road safety was also proposed.
Addressing the programme, Ambassador Tej Bahadur Chhetri said the embassy would work to implement the recommendations and expand health awareness initiatives in coordination with Nepali doctors across the UAE. He also appreciated the contributions made by Nepali doctors in the UAE to both the medical sector and the Nepali community.