Abu Dhabi: The Embassy of Nepal in Abu Dhabi today commemorated “International Sagarmatha Day” (Mt. Everest Day 2026) with a special ceremony at the Dusit Thani Hotel on 29 May 2026, marking the 73rd  anniversary of the historic first ascent of the world’s highest peak by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa on this day in 1953.

On the event of International Sagarmatha Day 2083, the programmed was commenced with a video message delivered by Hon. Mr. Shisir Khanal, Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Addressing on the event, H.E. Ambassador Tej Bahadur Chhetri, emphasized the historic and growing friendship between Nepal and the UAE, which will mark its 50th  anniversary in 2027. The UAE has become a second home for more than half a million Nepali nationals, whose hard work and dedication help build this nation’s skylines, in turn, the UAE has provided them with warmth, dignity and opportunity. The Ambassador Chhetri also reiterated Nepal’s urgent call for global climate action, noting that the Himalayas, the “Third Pole”, are facing rapid glacier melt. Protecting the Himalayas is a shared global necessity, he emphasized.

Ambassador Chhetri also outlined key policies of Nepal’s newly formed government focusing on stability, economic growth, good governance, tourism and long-term prosperity with a strong emphasis on digital public services, sustainable development.  Ambassador Chhetri reaffirmed, as part of Tourism Vision, Nepal announced Nepal’s new tourism roadmap: Wellness Tourism Year 2027 and Visit Nepal Year 2085 (2028) aims to establish itself as a leading destination for spiritual, cultural, and adventure tourism, inviting the world including Emiratis to experience Nepal’s trekking routes, cultural heritage, and hospitality. Nepal is ready to welcome you; not just as a climber, but as a trekker, a seeker of peace, or an investor.

The event, which also coincided with Nepal’s Republic Day, was attended by senior officials of the Government of the UAE, Ambassadors and Heads of Diplomatic Missions based in Abu Dhabi, business leaders, prominent community figures, representatives from travel and tourism sectors, trekkers, bloggers, airline representatives, media representatives, members of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA), representatives of Nepali community organizations, businesspersons, professionals, and members of the Nepali diaspora, among others approximately 130 guests attended the event.

A highlight of the event showcased a number of inspiring success stories and achievement by international mountaineers Emirati Mr. Saeed Al Maamari, Ms. Nayla Al Baloushi, the first couple in the Arab region and Ms. Khadija Turki. Ambassador Chhetri also honored the brave Emirati mountaineers and true ambassadors of friendship of two great nations who have carried the UAE flag to the highest point on Earth presenting them with Tokens of Love for their outstanding achievements.

The event also featured traditional cultural performances, displays of Nepali handicrafts, and promotional materials from the Nepal Tourism Board, including goody bags with Nepali cardamom. A promotional video prepared by the Nepal Tourism Board showcasing Nepal’s tourism potential was also screened. During the event, a raffle draw included during which four attendees won round-trip airlines tickets generously offered by Air Arabia and Flydubai.

Ms. Ranjita Dahal, Counsellor and Deputy Chief of Mission, delivered a presentation on Sagarmatha’s historical and tourism significance. The programme was hosted by Ms. Soniya Dotel, Third Secretary of the Embassy.