Why UAE-Based Trekkers Are Booking Direct with a Nepali Family Company
Living in the UAE means desert, skyscrapers, and summer heat that keeps everyone indoors for months. When the outdoors is 48°C and flat to the horizon, the pull of cool mountain air and high trails becomes something close to physical need. Nepal offers the ultimate escape from the desert: green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and trails that climb to the roof of the world.
The UAE to Nepal route is one of the easiest in the world. Dubai and Abu Dhabi both have excellent direct or short-connection flights to Kathmandu, and the time difference is just 1 hour and 45 minutes. But if you book through a UAE-based travel agency or luxury tour operator, you'll pay Dubai prices for a trek that's run entirely by a Nepali company on the ground.
Book directly with The Everest Holiday and you'll pay 40-60% less for the same trails, same lodges, and better guides. We are the source.
Trek Prices in UAE Dirhams
| Trek | Budget (AED) | Standard (AED) | Luxury (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everest Base Camp 12 Days | AED 2,386 | AED 3,934 | AED 6,602 |
| Annapurna Base Camp 10 Days | AED 1,652 | AED 2,863 | AED 4,588 |
| Poon Hill 5 Days | AED 789 | AED 1,303 | AED 2,110 |
| Langtang Valley 8 Days | AED 1,395 | AED 2,386 | AED 3,854 |
| Manaslu Circuit 12 Days | AED 2,386 | AED 3,615 | AED 7,336 |
| Mardi Himal 6 Days | AED 954 | AED 1,541 | AED 2,565 |
All prices include permits, licensed guide, porter, accommodation, meals (Standard and Luxury tiers), and ground transport from Kathmandu. We offer three tiers so you choose exactly how you want to trek.
The Everest Holiday Advantage for UAE-Based Trekkers
- Direct booking, no middleman — UAE travel agencies and luxury operators mark up 40-60%. We are the company that actually runs your trek.
- Quick flights from the UAE — Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Kathmandu in under 5 hours. Morning flight, afternoon in Nepal.
- Pay securely online — We are the only Nepal trekking company with a direct bank payment gateway through Himalayan Bank Limited. Your money is protected.
- Halal food available — Nepal is welcoming to Muslim travellers. Halal options are available in Kathmandu and can be arranged on the trail. See our halal-friendly Nepal trekking guide for full details.
- Luxury tier for high-end travellers — Our Luxury packages include the best lodges, private rooms, premium meals, and additional comfort. Perfect for UAE residents who want the mountain experience without compromising on comfort.
- WhatsApp planning — Shreejan responds within 30 minutes during Nepal business hours. Plan everything over WhatsApp.
Getting to Kathmandu from the UAE
The UAE is one of the best-connected departure points for Nepal. Direct flights operate from both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and several airlines offer daily services. The journey is short, affordable, and convenient.
| From | Route | Airlines | Flight Time | Cost (Return, AED) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai (DXB) | Direct | flydubai, Nepal Airlines, Himalaya Airlines | 4 hr 15 min | AED 1,200-2,500 |
| Abu Dhabi (AUH) | Direct | Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Etihad (seasonal) | 4 hr 30 min | AED 1,300-2,800 |
| Dubai (DXB) | Via Delhi (DEL) | Emirates + IndiGo/Air India | 7-9 hrs | AED 1,500-3,200 |
| Sharjah (SHJ) | Direct | Air Arabia | 4 hr 20 min | AED 1,100-2,200 |
Pro tip: flydubai and Air Arabia offer the most competitive fares on the direct route. Book 6-8 weeks ahead for peak season (October-November). Emirates via Delhi costs more but gives you lounge access and a smoother connection. Many UAE residents combine the trek with a day or two exploring Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Visa Information for UAE Residents
Visa requirements depend on your passport nationality, not your UAE residency.
- UAE nationals: Visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport. USD 30 (15 days) or USD 50 (30 days).
- Indian passport holders (UAE residents): No visa needed for Nepal. Enter with your Indian passport.
- Pakistani passport holders (UAE residents): Visa on arrival. USD 30-50.
- Filipino passport holders (UAE residents): Visa on arrival. USD 30-50.
- Other nationalities: Most passport holders can get a visa on arrival. Check with us if unsure.
Bring your passport (valid for at least 6 months), one passport-size photo, and cash in USD. The process takes 15-30 minutes. You can also apply online at nepaliport.immigration.gov.np before your trip.
Best Months to Trek from the UAE
- October-November: The best weather window. Clear skies, stable temperatures, spectacular mountain views. Peak season, so book early. Perfect for Everest Base Camp and Annapurna. This also coincides with the start of the UAE's cooler months, making return flights pleasant.
- March-May: Spring brings warmer temperatures and rhododendron forests in full bloom. Excellent trekking conditions. Great for Langtang and Poon Hill. A perfect escape before UAE summer heat arrives.
- December-February: Cold but clear at lower altitudes. Fewer crowds, lower prices. Good for Poon Hill and Mardi Himal. The UAE's best weather season, but a Nepal trek over the holidays is a memorable way to celebrate.
- June-September (Monsoon): Avoid for most treks. Exception: Upper Mustang and Dolpo sit in a rain shadow area. This period aligns with UAE summer, making it tempting, but monsoon conditions make most trails difficult.
For UAE professionals: The UAE National Day holiday (2 December) plus a few days of leave works for short treks like Poon Hill or Mardi Himal. Eid holidays can align with spring or autumn trekking seasons. Many UAE-based trekkers use the October half-term break for family treks.
From Desert to Mountains: What to Expect
The contrast between the UAE and Nepal could not be more dramatic. Flat desert gives way to the highest mountains on earth. Air-conditioned malls become mountain teahouses. And that's exactly the point. Here's what to expect.
- Altitude is the main challenge. Dubai is at sea level. Abu Dhabi is at sea level. Everest Base Camp is 5,364m. Your body needs time to adjust, and fitness alone does not prevent altitude sickness. Our itineraries include acclimatisation days to keep you safe.
- The temperature shift is significant. If you're used to 35-45°C, expect a shock. At Everest Base Camp, night temperatures drop to -15°C. Pack proper cold-weather gear: down jacket, thermal layers, fleece, warm hat, and gloves. You can buy quality gear in Kathmandu's Thamel district.
- Teahouse accommodation. Basic twin rooms, shared bathrooms, warm blankets. Very different from UAE hotels. Our Luxury tier provides the best available rooms with private facilities where they exist, heated dining rooms, and premium bedding. For UAE residents wanting more comfort, the Luxury tier is highly recommended.
- Porters carry your gear. Your porter carries up to 15kg. You walk with just a daypack.
- The food is hearty and diverse. Dal bhat (rice, lentils, vegetables) is the staple, with unlimited refills. Momos (steamed dumplings), noodle soups, fried rice, and egg dishes are available. Halal meat options can be arranged with advance notice. Vegetarian food is available everywhere.
- You have a licensed guide. Since 2023, Nepal law requires all trekkers to have a licensed guide. Our guides are government-trained, carry pulse oximeters, and know the trails intimately.
Our Most Popular Treks for UAE-Based Trekkers
Everest Base Camp Trek — 12 Days
The ultimate trek. Stand at 5,364m in the shadow of the world's tallest mountain. Walk through Sherpa villages, cross suspension bridges over glacial rivers, and watch sunrise from Kala Patthar (5,545m). Three tiers: Budget AED 2,386 | Standard AED 3,934 | Luxury AED 6,602 per person. All permits, guide, porter, meals (Standard/Luxury), and transport included.
Annapurna Base Camp Trek — 10 Days
Walk through rice terraces, bamboo forests, and natural hot springs to the amphitheatre of Annapurna (8,091m). A dramatic contrast from the desert landscapes of home. Budget AED 1,652 | Standard AED 2,863 | Luxury AED 4,588 per person.
Poon Hill Trek — 5 Days
The perfect introduction to Himalayan trekking. A short, rewarding trek with a famous sunrise viewpoint at 3,210m. Ideal for a long weekend trip from the UAE. Budget AED 789 | Standard AED 1,303 | Luxury AED 2,110 per person.
Langtang Valley Trek — 8 Days
The closest major trek to Kathmandu. Tamang culture, yak pastures, cheese factories, and views of Langtang Lirung (7,227m). Quieter and more authentic. Budget AED 1,395 | Standard AED 2,386 | Luxury AED 3,854 per person.
Manaslu Circuit Trek — 12 Days
The quieter alternative to the Annapurna Circuit. Cross the Larkya La Pass at 5,160m through a restricted area with limited trekker numbers. Wild, remote, and unforgettable. Budget AED 2,386 | Standard AED 3,615 | Luxury AED 7,336 per person.
Mardi Himal Trek — 6 Days
Nepal's newest trail. Quiet ridgeline walking with close-up views of Machhapuchhre (Fishtail). Short enough for a midweek break, beautiful enough to remember forever. Budget AED 954 | Standard AED 1,541 | Luxury AED 2,565 per person.
What UAE-Based Trekkers Need to Know
Permits
All trekking permits are included in our package price. You need: TIMS card (Trekkers' Information Management System) plus National Park or Conservation Area entry permit. For restricted areas (Manaslu, Upper Mustang, Dolpo), a special restricted area permit is required. We handle everything.
Currency
Nepal uses Nepali Rupees (NPR). Exchange AED or USD at the airport or in Kathmandu's Thamel district. ATMs in Kathmandu and Pokhara accept Visa and Mastercard (Emirates NBD and ADCB cards work well). Carry cash for the trail as there are no ATMs above Namche Bazaar (Everest region) or Chame (Annapurna region). Budget approximately AED 35-55 per day for personal expenses on the trail.
Halal Food
Kathmandu has halal restaurants, and halal meat can be arranged on the trail with advance notice. The default trail food (dal bhat, vegetables, egg dishes, noodles) is naturally vegetarian and suitable for all dietary requirements. Our halal-friendly Nepal trekking guide covers everything in detail. Let us know your dietary needs when booking and we'll plan accordingly.
Mobile and Internet
Buy an NCell SIM card at Kathmandu airport (approximately AED 20 with data pack). It works on most of the trail up to Namche Bazaar and Dingboche. Your du or Etisalat SIM will work with roaming but charges are high. Wi-Fi is available at most teahouses for NPR 200-500 per session.
Heat Acclimatisation in Reverse
UAE residents are acclimatised to extreme heat, not extreme cold. The temperature difference is the biggest physical adjustment alongside altitude. At 5,000m, night temperatures can drop to -15°C. Invest in quality cold-weather layers. Many UAE trekkers buy gear in Kathmandu's Thamel district, where quality down jackets are available for a fraction of Dubai mall prices.
Altitude Sickness
This is the biggest risk for all trekkers. The UAE is at sea level. Everest Base Camp is 5,364m. Your body needs time to adjust, and fitness alone does not prevent altitude sickness. Our guides carry pulse oximeters and monitor your oxygen levels daily. We build acclimatisation days into every itinerary. If symptoms appear, we descend immediately.
Insurance
Travel insurance with helicopter evacuation cover is mandatory for all trekkers. Many UAE-based insurance providers (Oman Insurance, AXA Gulf, Zurich) offer adventure travel add-ons, but check that your policy covers trekking above 5,000m and helicopter rescue. World Nomads is a reliable alternative. Cost: approximately AED 200-400 for two weeks. We require confirmation before departure.
About The Everest Holiday
We are a three-generation Himalayan family company. Our grandfather Hari Lal Simkhada arranged logistics for Himalayan expeditions in the 1960s and 70s. Our father Ganesh Prasad Simkhada has held senior positions at the Nepal Tourism Board and Nepal Mountaineering Association. Today, Shreejan Simkhada and Shamjhana Basukala run The Everest Holiday with 80+ guides and staff.
- TAAN Member #1586 — Nepal's official trekking agency association
- Tourism License 2838/072 — Government of Nepal
- 320+ verified reviews across TripAdvisor (4.9 stars), Google (4.9 stars), and Trustpilot (5 stars)
- TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice 2024
- Selected by Nepal Tourism Board to represent Nepal at MATKA 2026 Helsinki
- Secure online payment through Himalayan Bank Limited — the only Nepal trekking company with direct bank payment
Our Charity — Nagarjun Learning Center
A portion of every booking supports the Nagarjun Learning Center, founded by our family in 2019. We provide free education and hot meals to 70 children across 7 learning centres in rural Nepal, free medical care to 600+ people, and empowerment programmes for 275+ women. The centre is verified and listed on the UN Partner Portal.
Your trek doesn't just change your life — it changes theirs.
Frequently Asked Questions — UAE-Based Trekkers
Do I need a visa for Nepal?
It depends on your passport, not your UAE residency. Most nationalities get a visa on arrival at Kathmandu airport (USD 30-50). Indian passport holders enter Nepal visa-free. Bring your passport, one photo, and cash in USD.
Do I need a guide to trek in Nepal?
Yes. Since 2023, Nepal law requires all trekkers to have a licensed guide. Our guides are Nepal government trained and licensed, and several hold Bachelor's degrees in Mountaineering.
Is halal food available on the trek?
Halal restaurants are available in Kathmandu, and halal meat can be arranged on the trail with advance notice. The default trail meals (dal bhat, vegetables, eggs, noodles) are naturally vegetarian. See our halal-friendly trekking guide for full details.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be able to walk 5-7 hours daily on inclines. Gym fitness helps but trail-specific preparation is important. Train on the StairMaster or outdoor stairs 8-12 weeks before your trek. If you hike Jebel Jais or do desert treks on weekends, you have a reasonable base. No mountaineering skills needed.
Can I trek solo or do I need a group?
All our treks are private. You don't join a group. It's just you, your guide, and your porter. Solo trekkers, couples, families, and friend groups all welcome. Minimum 1 person, maximum 20.
Is the Luxury tier worth it?
For UAE residents accustomed to high comfort standards, yes. The Luxury tier includes the best available lodges, private rooms, premium meals, hot showers where available, and additional porter support. It won't be five-star hotel standard (these are mountain lodges), but it's the most comfortable way to trek in the Himalayas.
What if I get altitude sickness?
Our guides are trained in altitude sickness prevention and carry pulse oximeters. We monitor your oxygen levels twice daily above 3,000m. If serious symptoms appear, we descend immediately and coordinate helicopter evacuation if needed. Travel insurance with helicopter cover is mandatory.
How do I book?
Choose your trek, pick your tier (Budget/Standard/Luxury), and pay a 10% deposit online through our secure Himalayan Bank payment gateway. The remaining balance is due before your trek starts. Or simply WhatsApp Shreejan directly and we'll plan everything together.
Plan Your Nepal Trek Today
Trade the desert for the mountains. Nepal is just 4-5 hours from the UAE, and the contrast will take your breath away (in the best possible sense). Whether it's your first trek or you're chasing a lifelong goal, we'll make it personal, safe, and unforgettable.
WhatsApp:+977 9810351300 (Shreejan responds within 30 minutes during Nepal business hours)
Email:info@theeverestholiday.com
Website:theeverestholiday.com
Three generations. One family. Your Himalayas.
