Sending Money to Nepal for the First Time? Start Here

Step 1: Figure out how your recipient will get the money

Ask your recipient directly: do they have a bank account, or would cash pickup or a digital wallet (eSewa, Khalti) work better? This one answer determines which providers are even relevant to you — Wise only supports bank deposits, while Remitly, Al Ansari, and Botim all offer more flexibility.

Step 2: Gather what you'll need

Your Emirates ID for identity verification, and your recipient's full legal name plus their bank account number, wallet-registered phone number, or ID details, depending on how they'll receive it. Our full documents checklist covers every delivery method in detail.

Step 3: Understand the two numbers that actually matter

The exchange rate tells you how many rupees one dirham converts to. The fee is a separate charge some providers add on top. Some providers advertise "zero fee" but apply a wider margin instead — the number that actually matters is the total NPR your recipient receives, not either number in isolation. Our glossary covers every term you'll come across along the way.

Step 4: Compare before you send

See how all six providers stack up, or go straight to the live comparison tool and enter your exact amount. This takes under a minute and shows you the real total, not just a headline rate.

Step 5: Send, and save your reference number

Once you confirm, you'll get a transaction reference number — save it immediately. It's what your recipient needs for cash pickup, and what you'll need if you ever have to contact support. Our tracking guide covers what each status update actually means once your transfer is on its way.

One mistake to avoid on your first transfer

Don't default to whichever provider you've heard of most. Wise and Remitly are well-known, but that doesn't automatically mean they're cheapest for your specific amount and delivery method — the whole point of comparing is that the "obvious" choice isn't always the right one.

See also: documents checklist · remittance terms glossary · 7 mistakes to avoid