NPRC Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Vol. 3 No. 2 (2026): Complete Issue Review

Opening Paragraph

The February 2026 issue of the NPRC Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (Volume 3, Number 2) presents seventeen original research articles spanning an impressive breadth of disciplinary domains, including public administration, environmental science, health studies, economics, education, migration studies, cultural heritage, and technology. Published by Tribhuvan University Central Library through the Nepal Journals Online platform, this issue demonstrates the journal's commitment to advancing knowledge on pressing issues facing Nepal and the broader South Asian region. The collection is particularly notable for its strong policy orientation, with most articles offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and community stakeholders. From examinations of green governance and sustainable development to analyses of immigrant workers' vulnerabilities and machine learning applications in economic forecasting, this issue reflects both methodological diversity and contextual relevance. The following reviews provide brief analytical summaries of each contribution, highlighting their research approaches, key findings, and contributions to their respective fields.

Article 1: Human Rights Approach in Nepal's Development Strategies: A Critical Overview

Author: Er. Sachindra Kumar Deo (Pages 1-11)

This foundational article opens the issue with a critical examination of how the Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA) has been operationalized within Nepal's development framework. Through qualitative analysis of constitutional texts, periodic plans, and institutional reports, the author assesses the gap between normative commitments and substantive outcomes. The study reveals that while Nepal has achieved substantial progress in constitutionalizing fundamental rights and aligning development planning with HRBA principles and Sustainable Development Goals, a persistent implementation gap remains. The National Human Rights Commission, despite its constitutional status and Paris Principles accreditation, faces challenges in enforcing its recommendations due to weak institutional coordination and political interference. Through a SWOT analysis, the article identifies federalism and international partnerships as opportunities, while political instability and entrenched social inequalities pose significant threats. The author concludes that without strengthening sub-national governance, institutionalizing rights education, and ensuring meaningful participation of marginalized groups, HRBA risks remaining rhetorical rather than transformative.

Article 2: Coping Strategies of Teachers and Students in Addressing Teaching-Learning Challenges within the Semester System at Mid-West University

Author: Ramesh Khatri (Pages 12-23)

This qualitative narrative inquiry explores the challenges encountered by teachers and students in implementing the semester system at Mid-West University, a newly established public institution in Nepal's remote Karnali region. Through in-depth interviews with five teachers and five students across five graduate schools, the study identifies five thematic challenges: curriculum-practice mismatch, infrastructure and resource constraints, ICT skill gaps, time pressure and assessment load, and adaptive self-reliance amid weak institutional support. Teachers reported teaching outdated content, such as referencing village development committees long after Nepal's transition to federalism, and developed coping strategies including selective teaching, reliance on online resources, and personal investment in teaching materials. Students faced overcrowded classrooms, inadequate library resources, and heavy assessment loads, responding through peer learning and self-study. The study uniquely reveals how both groups demonstrate remarkable adaptability despite systemic shortcomings, with teachers teaching on holidays and developing self-prepared materials. The author recommends urgent curriculum revision aligned with labor market demands, establishment of centralized digital resource hubs, and balanced assessment policies.

Article 3: Impact of Road Infrastructure to Market Access and Income Generating Opportunities of Rural Area in Mahottari District of Nepal

Authors: Bhagu Yadav & Madhav Prasad Dahal (Pages 24-40)

This mixed-methods study examines how road infrastructure improvements between 2016 and 2024 have transformed rural livelihoods in three municipalities of Mahottari District. Drawing on household surveys with 240 respondents, key informant interviews with rural municipality presidents, and focus group discussions, the research demonstrates that improved road connectivity has substantially enhanced market access by reducing travel time and transportation costs. The findings reveal significant livelihood diversification: while 78.2% of households relied primarily on agriculture before road development, this figure decreased to 25.8% afterward, with households transitioning to livestock farming, small businesses, shopkeeping, fishery, and wage employment. Quantitative analysis shows that average monthly household income increased from pre-road levels, with a mean impact score of 3.72 indicating strong positive effects. The study confirms Growth Pole Theory, demonstrating how roads serve as catalysts for local economic development by connecting rural producers to larger markets, enabling better prices for agricultural goods, and facilitating access to inputs and services. The authors recommend continued investment in rural road infrastructure integrated with local economic planning and value chain development.

Article 4: Green Governance: The Role of Public Administration in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

Authors: Prem Bahadur Giri, Tek Nath Dhakal, Hari Prasad Ghimire, Uttam Raj Giri & Ajay Giri (Pages 41-64)

This systematic literature review, conducted using the PRISMA 2020 framework across Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases, reconceptualizes green governance as an administrative transformation process rather than merely sectoral environmental policy. Analyzing 53 studies published since 2020, the authors identify five fundamental dimensions of green governance: governance mechanisms, bureaucratic capacity, policy instruments, institutional barriers, and best practices. The review reveals that comprehensive and inclusive governance systems enhance policy coherence and legitimacy, while professional and independent bureaucracies optimize regulatory and adaptive capacity. Notably, the study finds that sustainability performance is enhanced through combined regulatory, market-based, and informational tools, yet fragmented institutions, limited capacity, weak accountability, and political short-termism continue to constrain SDG implementation. The theoretical contribution lies in positioning public administration as a constitutive agent mediating between sustainability aspirations and measurable outcomes. The authors conclude that countries with stronger administrative capacity and integrated governance systems are more likely to achieve sustained progress on environmental SDGs, offering policy implications for inter-ministerial coordination, capacity building, participatory governance, and performance-based monitoring.

Article 5: Carbon Sequestration Rates Using the Allometric Equations of the Fast Growing Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) in Central Nepal

Authors: Nabin Raj Joshi & Gunanand Pant (Pages 65-89)

This original research addresses a critical gap in Nepal's forestry science by developing species-specific allometric equations for Paulownia tomentosa, a fast-growing tree species recently introduced to Nepal for its carbon sequestration and land restoration potential. Through destructive sampling of nineteen 15-20-year-old trees at ICIMOD's Knowledge Park in Godavari, the researchers measured biomass across seven tree components and developed regression models based on diameter at breast height (DBH). The study finds that the logarithmic model ln(M) = β₀ + β₁ ln(D) provides the most optimal predictions, with DBH serving as a reliable single predictor while adding tree height did not improve model performance. The carbon sequestration analysis reveals remarkable results: mean baseline carbon stock of 149.81 tC ha⁻¹ in 2014 increased to 202.01 tC ha⁻¹ by 2022, yielding a sequestration rate of 5.87 tC ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹. This rate exceeds those reported for REDD+ pilot sites in Nepal and Indian Himalayan forests. The root-shoot ratio of 0.11 indicates greater aboveground biomass allocation, suggesting the species may not be ideal for highly erosive slopes. The equations provide smallholders, community forest managers, and policymakers with practical tools for estimating plantation productivity and carbon credits.

Article 6: Risks of De-institutionalizing Foreign Policy in Nepal

Author: Kaushal Kishor Ray (Pages 90-98)

This timely policy analysis examines the growing trend of de-institutionalizing foreign policy in Nepal, where formal diplomatic processes are increasingly bypassed in favor of informal, ad-hoc, and leader-centric approaches. Drawing on institutionalism and foreign policy analysis frameworks, the author identifies globalization, rapid advancement of information technology, democratization of foreign policy, and domestic political instability as primary drivers. The study critically analyzes how this trend has led to poor inter-agency coordination, fragmented policy positions in international negotiations, weakened accountability, and suboptimal outcomes in areas like climate diplomacy and international development cooperation. The author draws parallels with Mexico's experience, where neoliberal reforms led to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs losing coordination powers in technical areas. In Nepal's context, with 17 governments in 20 years, political instability has exacerbated institutional erosion, leading to confusion over institutional arrangements for climate finance negotiations and challenges in ratifying international agreements like the MCC Compact. The article concludes that reversing this trend requires enhanced institutionalization, capacity-building within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and strengthening of established rules and coordinating mechanisms to ensure policy continuity, credibility, and efficacy.

Article 7: Crop Insurance in Nepal: Farmers' Perception on Paddy Crop Insurance and Institutional Performance in Chitwan and Bardiya Districts

Authors: Shiva Sundar Ghimire, Shiddi Ganesh Shrestha, Hari Krishna Panta, Govinda Prasad Sharma & Udit Prakash Sigdel (Pages 99-115)

This comprehensive mixed-methods study investigates the persistently low penetration of Nepal's subsidized agricultural insurance program, focusing on paddy farmers in two major grain-producing districts. Surveying 460 respondents equally divided between insured and non-insured farmers, supplemented by key informant interviews and focus group discussions, the research reveals a striking paradox: while farmers appreciate the government's initiative (index value 0.44), they express strong dissatisfaction with claim procedures, compensation adequacy (-0.27), and timely payment (-0.31). Institutional performance assessment shows the Nepal Insurance Authority receiving negative perceptions across most roles (-0.09 mean index), particularly in dispute resolution (-0.21) and claim documentation facilitation (-0.14). Insurance companies performed better on document requirements (0.27) but poorly on timely claim payment (-0.30). Key barriers include complex documentation, delayed claim settlement, low awareness, and poor coordination among implementing agencies. The study uniquely compares Chitwan and Bardiya districts, revealing significant socio-demographic differences with Bardiya exhibiting higher illiteracy (39.52%) and ethnic diversity. The authors recommend standardized technology-based loss assessment mechanisms, trained loss assessors, simplified procedures, and active dispute resolution roles for regulatory bodies.

Article 8: Ensemble Based Machine Learning Model for Prediction of Diabetes

Author: Ramesh Prasad Bhatta (Pages 116-129)

This technical study evaluates the performance of ensemble learning algorithms for early diabetes prediction using the PIMA Indian Diabetes dataset, with important implications for healthcare in developing countries where early detection can reduce complications and expenses. The research benchmarks AdaBoost, Gradient Boosting, XGBoost, and a Stacking Ensemble model against traditional approaches, employing rigorous preprocessing, cross-validation, and performance metrics including accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and ROC-AUC. Results demonstrate a clear hierarchy in model performance: AdaBoost achieved 76% accuracy (ROC-AUC 0.81), Gradient Boosting 79% (0.85), XGBoost 82% (0.88), and the Stacking Ensemble 86% (0.91). The Stacking Ensemble's superior performance (4.8% relative improvement over XGBoost) stems from its ability to capitalize on model diversity, combining AdaBoost's strength in classifying difficult instances, Gradient Boosting's error learning, XGBoost's complex interaction capture, and logistic regression's optimal output combination. The balanced precision (0.82) and recall (0.80) values are particularly critical for medical applications where minimizing false negatives prevents missed diagnoses. The study concludes that ensemble methods, particularly stacking, offer robust tools for early diabetes detection, with implications for developing decision support systems in resource-constrained healthcare settings.

Article 9: The Chariot, Communities, and State: Negotiating Heritage Governance in the Bungadya Jatra

Author: Bikash Gnawali (Pages 130-146)

This ethnographic case study examines the complex governance dynamics surrounding the Bungadya Jatra (Rato Matsyendranath Festival), a 7th-century living tradition in Nepal's Lalitpur district. Through policy analysis, cultural observations during the 2025 festival cycle, and interviews with eleven key stakeholders including hereditary priests, carpenters, rope-work specialists, and municipal officers, the research reveals that the festival's preservation challenges stem not from lack of rules but from fragmented governance across multiple agencies. The study applies a triangulated theoretical framework combining Material-Based, Living-Heritage, and Value-Based approaches to analyze conflicts between the 60-foot wooden chariot's traditional route and modern urban infrastructure. Findings document how the Barahi Guthiyar's traditional woodworking skills (using nail-less joints), the Yawal Guthi's rope-work expertise, and the Paneju priests' ritual knowledge are threatened by economic pressures and urban encroachment. The research identifies critical tensions: between material integrity and urban development, between ritual autonomy and state regulation, and between traditional funding systems and modern economies. The author proposes a single Festival Management Authority combining municipal planning with Guthi traditions, designation of the parade route as a "Mobile Heritage Corridor," and a "Living Human Treasures" program to support hereditary practitioners financially and technically.

Article 10: Cultural Retention and Adaptation among Nepali Immigrants in Canada

Author: Sharad Acharya (Pages 147-163)

This qualitative study addresses a significant gap in diaspora literature by examining how Nepali immigrants in Canada navigate the dual challenge of preserving cultural heritage while integrating into a multicultural society. Through semi-structured interviews with ten purposively selected first- and second-generation immigrants, the research employs thematic analysis within an integrated theoretical framework combining Acculturation Theory, Transnationalism, Cultural Identity Theory, and Social Remittance Theory. Findings reveal that major festivals (Dashain, Tihar, Losar) remain strongly preserved among first-generation immigrants, while minor rituals decline among younger generations who participate for social rather than religious reasons. Language maintenance faces significant challenges due to English dominance in schools and peer interactions, with community institutions like Gurukul schools playing vital compensatory roles. The study uniquely documents how Canadian multicultural policies facilitate cultural expression, with non-Nepali friends wearing saris during Teej celebrations. Digital media emerges as a crucial tool for cultural continuity, connecting immigrants to festivals and practices across borders. Intergenerational dynamics show second-generation youth developing hybrid identities, with some reporting feelings of marginalization due to limited cultural knowledge. The research concludes that cultural adaptation does not replace heritage but rather produces dynamic bicultural identities shaped by family practices, community support, and multicultural opportunities.

Article 11: Machine Learning for Remittance Forecasting and Macroeconomic Dynamics in Nepal: An Integrated Analytical Framework

Author: Bhola Nath Ghimire (Pages 164-179)

This innovative study develops an integrated machine learning framework for forecasting remittance inflows to Nepal and analyzing their macroeconomic impacts, addressing the limitations of traditional econometric models in capturing nonlinear dependencies and structural breaks. Using monthly data (2000-2023) from Nepal Rastra Bank, the World Bank, and the Department of Foreign Employment, the author benchmarks ARIMA and VAR models against Random Forest, XGBoost, LSTM, and a hybrid LSTM-Attention architecture. The hybrid LSTM-Attention model achieves remarkable 45% improvement in forecasting accuracy (4.9% MAPE) compared to ARIMA. SHAP analysis reveals exchange rate volatility as the most influential predictor, with an inverted U-shaped effect: moderate volatility (0.02-0.04) increases remittances, while excessive volatility (>0.06) reduces them. Oil prices show a structural break after Nepal's 2015 migration policy liberalization, with strong positive relationships emerging post-reform. Macroeconomic impact analysis using ML-augmented VAR shows a one-standard-deviation remittance shock increases GDP growth by 0.35 percentage points (peak at 6 months) and inflation by 0.18 percentage points (peak at 14 months), revealing delayed inflationary transmission. The study concludes that remittances exhibit a dual macroeconomic role—stimulating short-term growth while generating delayed inflationary pressures—recommending policy focus on managing volatility rather than levels.

Article 12: Understanding the Multifaceted Challenges of Immigrant Women Workers in Nepal

Authors: Namrata Grace Gurung & Sunita Mainali (Pages 211-219)

This groundbreaking study addresses a critically under-examined population: immigrant women workers who migrate to Nepal from other countries, primarily India and Bangladesh, and are employed in informal, unregulated sectors like domestic work, caregiving, and hospitality. Employing qualitative critical policy analysis and integrative literature review through a gender-responsive and intersectional lens, the research reveals how intersecting structures of gender, class, nationality, and legal status produce profound marginalization. The analysis demonstrates that Nepal's migration governance frameworks are structurally biased toward outbound migration, with policies like the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (2024-2028) failing to extend meaningful protection to inbound workers. Key findings document that employment in the informal economy places these women outside standard labor protections, leading to wage exploitation, unsafe working conditions, and harassment. Immigration status, often irregular or undocumented, creates barriers to reporting abuse and accessing justice. The study includes the poignant case of Hira Bhujel, who died after being abandoned by her employer while undocumented, illustrating the human cost of policy gaps. The authors call for a paradigm shift toward gender-responsive, intersectional approaches extending labor rights, monitoring, and grievance mechanisms to all workers within Nepal's borders regardless of origin or documentation status.

Article 13: The Bhagavad Gita as a Framework for Sattvic AI: Aligning Artificial Intelligence with Sustainable Development

Authors: Shiva Raj Adhikari, Hira Lal Shrestha & Dasarath Neupane (Pages 220-229)

This conceptually innovative article bridges ancient philosophical wisdom with contemporary technological challenges by developing a unique ethical framework for sustainable artificial intelligence based on Bhagavad Gita concepts. Critiquing the dominant "move fast and break things" approach to technology development, the authors argue that without robust ethical foundations, AI threatens to worsen sustainability crises and hinder achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The framework applies three fundamental Gita concepts: Dharma (Cosmic Duty) to redefine AI's purpose toward Lokasamgraha (world welfare); Nishkama Karma (selfless action) to discipline AI development through process-oriented ethical review; and the three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) as an evaluative framework for AI systems. The authors develop practical implementation tools including Dharma Statements articulating AI's cosmic and social duty, Nishkama Development Protocols such as pre-mortem ethical failure analysis and blind ethical review, and Guna Impact Assessments (GIA) requiring developers to score systems across Sattvic, Rajasic, and Tamasic dimensions. The framework proposes governance innovations including Dharma Councils with veto powers and incentive realignment to overcome "first-mover disadvantage" for sustainability. This represents the first systematic application of Bhagavad Gita philosophy to create operational pathways for ethical and sustainable AI development.

Article 14: Gaps in Teaching Comprehensive Sexuality Education: A Review of Literature

Authors: Sharmila Pokharel & Bhimsen Devkota (Pages 230-243)

This systematic literature review examines how Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) is actually taught to children aged 5-15 years across diverse socio-cultural contexts, with special emphasis on Nepal where progressive policies coexist with limited classroom practice. Analyzing 45 peer-reviewed studies from over 15 countries published between 2010-2024, the authors identify three major implementation gaps: inadequate teacher preparation and discomfort teaching sensitive topics; socio-cultural and religious barriers creating classroom silence; and reliance on outdated, lecture-based pedagogy rather than participatory methods. In Nepal, despite supportive policies, CSE remains fragmented, culturally shame-bound, and biologically focused, excluding critical topics like consent, gender equality, and sexual diversity. The review uniquely centers on teaching processes rather than content, revealing that teachers worldwide agree CSE is necessary but struggle with implementation due to training gaps, personal values conflicts, and cultural taboos. Students across contexts desire comprehensive information but rely on informal, often inaccurate sources. The authors propose Anderson and Krathwohl's revised Bloom's taxonomy as a framework for moving beyond factual recall toward critical thinking and practical skill development. Alternative delivery models including online platforms, peer education, and community-integrated approaches show promise for Nepal's context, where internet access is rapidly increasing among adolescents.

Article 15: Behavioural Biases and Mutual Fund Investment Decisions: The Role of Loss Aversion and Risk Perception

Authors: P Radha, Manju Priya R & G. Srividya (Pages 244-253)

This quantitative study examines how psychological biases influence mutual fund investment decisions among 180 retail investors in India, focusing specifically on loss aversion and risk perception. Using multiple regression analysis and chi-square tests, the research demonstrates that both loss aversion (β = -0.410, p < 0.001) and risk perception (β = -0.330, p < 0.001) have significant negative effects on investment decisions, together explaining 38% of the variance in investor behavior (R² = 0.38). Cross-tabulation analysis reveals that investors with low loss aversion show higher proportions in high investment decision categories, while those with high loss aversion concentrate in low decision categories. Similarly, investors with low risk perception demonstrate higher participation in high investment decisions. The study uniquely quantifies how these biases manifest in specific behaviors: investors with high loss aversion and elevated risk perception demonstrate conservative decision-making, premature redemptions during market volatility, and inconsistent investment patterns that potentially undermine long-term wealth creation. The findings challenge traditional financial theories assuming rational investor behavior, supporting prospect theory's assertion that losses hurt more than equivalent gains feel good. Practical recommendations include behavioral counseling during market downturns, simplified risk communication through scenario-based disclosures, and investor education programs focusing on bias awareness and long-term investing principles.

Article 16: Awareness and Preventive Practices related to Cervical Cancer among Women in Pokhara Metropolitan City

Author: Rojana Dhakal (Pages 254-268)

This community-based cross-sectional study assesses cervical cancer awareness and screening utilization among 464 married women aged 21-65 years in Pokhara Metropolitan City, addressing a critical public health concern in Nepal where cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. Using structured interviews and Bloom's cut-off points for knowledge assessment, the research reveals alarming gaps despite high-level awareness. While 90.3% of participants had heard of cervical cancer, 90% demonstrated poor awareness of the disease and its screening. Only 17.7% had undergone screening, with 61% of those screened reporting Pap smear tests. The primary reason for non-participation was absence of perceived health problems (79.8%), followed by inadequate knowledge about the test. Statistical analysis shows significant associations between awareness levels and educational status, occupation, age at marriage, parity, and age at first childbirth. The study contextualizes findings within WHO's 90-70-90 global strategy for cervical cancer elimination, noting that while national guidelines recommend Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) for women of reproductive age, screening coverage remains limited with only a small proportion ever screened. The author recommends targeted culturally sensitive educational interventions addressing misconceptions about feeling healthy, provider-initiated counseling, and community-based awareness programs to improve knowledge and promote regular screening.

Closing Paragraph

Collectively, the seventeen articles in this issue of the NPRC Journal of Multidisciplinary Research offer a compelling portrait of contemporary scholarship on Nepal and the broader South Asian region. Several cross-cutting themes emerge from this diverse collection. First, a persistent implementation gap between policy intent and practical outcomes appears across multiple domains—from human rights-based development and educational reform to agricultural insurance and heritage governance—suggesting that institutional quality and administrative capacity are as critical as policy design. Second, methodological innovation is evident throughout, with studies employing machine learning for economic forecasting and disease prediction, allometric equations for carbon accounting, and qualitative approaches for understanding migration and cultural retention. Third, the issue demonstrates strong commitment to addressing pressing social challenges, including women's health, immigrant worker vulnerabilities, adolescent sexuality education, and climate-resilient infrastructure. The journal's multidisciplinary scope enables productive cross-fertilization of ideas, with governance frameworks from public administration informing analyses of heritage management, and behavioral economics insights enriching understanding of investment decisions. As Nepal continues its federal transition and grapples with sustainable development challenges, research of this caliber—grounded in local contexts while engaging with global scholarly conversations—provides essential evidence for informed policymaking and practice. This issue successfully advances the journal's mission of bridging academic research with real-world applications in Nepal and beyond.

 

 A Tale of Two Emirates: Reviewing Qatar Airways in the Dubai Market

Abstract

The relationship between Qatar Airways and Dubai is one of the most unique dynamics in global aviation. As the flag carrier of Qatar, the airline operates extensive services to its rival emirate's primary airport, Dubai International (DXB), creating a fascinating case study of aviation cooperation amidst regional geopolitics. This review article provides a comprehensive analysis of Qatar Airways' presence and performance in the Dubai market. It examines the airline's route network and operational strategy, synthesizes passenger experiences on the Doha-Dubai sector, evaluates the dedicated Dubai Premium Lounge at DXB, and considers the broader competitive context that includes Dubai's home carrier, Emirates. The review reveals that Qatar Airways has successfully established itself as a premium operator in Dubai by offering a product that emphasizes privacy, quiet comfort, and seamless connectivity through its Doha hub. While the Dubai operation functions as a critical spoke in the airline's global network, it also serves as a point of direct competition with Emirates, creating a complex dynamic where passengers must choose between two world-class carriers. By analyzing passenger reviews, operational data, and market positioning, this article argues that Qatar Airways' success in Dubai demonstrates how premium service standards can transcend political boundaries, though the airline's relatively modest physical footprint in the city-state contrasts with Emirates' dominant presence.

Keywords: Qatar Airways, Dubai aviation market, Emirates, Doha-Dubai route, Dubai Premium Lounge, Gulf carriers

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Introduction

Few city pairs in global aviation are as short in distance yet as significant in competitive intensity as Doha and Dubai. Separated by just 380 kilometers across the Arabian Gulf, the capitals of Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are linked by one of the world's most heavily trafficked air corridors. For Qatar Airways, operating flights to Dubai represents both a vital commercial imperative and a delicate diplomatic exercise, given the complex political history between the two nations.

The Dubai market holds unique significance for Qatar Airways. Unlike most destinations in its global network, Dubai is home to the airline's most formidable regional competitor: Emirates. With its vast fleet of Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, Dubai's flag carrier dominates the city's aviation landscape, offering passengers unparalleled frequency and connectivity. Yet Qatar Airways has carved out a distinct position in this competitive environment, operating multiple daily flights from Doha to Dubai International Airport (DXB) with a product strategy that emphasizes privacy, service excellence, and seamless global connections.

This review article aims to provide a holistic assessment of Qatar Airways from the perspective of travelers using its Dubai services. It will analyze the airline's route network and operational strategy, synthesize passenger experiences on the Doha-Dubai sector, evaluate the dedicated Dubai Premium Lounge facility, and consider the broader competitive dynamics that shape the airline's position in this unique market. By doing so, it seeks to answer a central question: How does Qatar Airways, operating in the backyard of its greatest rival, establish and maintain a compelling value proposition for travelers?

Strategic Position in the Dubai Market

Route Network and Operational Strategy

Qatar Airways maintains a robust presence at Dubai International Airport, operating multiple daily flights between Doha's Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Dubai's primary gateway. These services utilize a mix of aircraft types appropriate for the short sector length, including Airbus A320 family aircraft and, on some rotations, wide-body equipment that continues onward to longer-haul destinations .

The frequency of Qatar Airways' Dubai operations reflects the route's strategic importance. Business travelers, in particular, value the ability to make day trips between the two commercial capitals, with early morning departures from Doha allowing for a full day of meetings in Dubai before an evening return flight. Leisure travelers similarly benefit from the schedule flexibility, whether connecting through Doha from points across Asia, Europe, or Africa, or originating in Dubai for onward travel on Qatar Airways' global network.

The airline's decision to serve Dubai International Airport rather than Dubai World Central (DWC) at Al Maktoum International positions it optimally for both business and leisure travelers. DXB's proximity to Dubai's commercial center and major hotel districts makes it the preferred airport for most visitors to the city, despite the gradual expansion of operations at DWC.

The Dubai Premium Lounge: A Commitment to Consistency

Perhaps the most tangible symbol of Qatar Airways' commitment to the Dubai market is its dedicated Dubai Premium Lounge, located in Concourse D of Dubai International Airport . Opened in 2016, the lounge represents a significant investment in the passenger experience at a station where the airline does not have the same scale of operations as at its Doha hub.

The lounge is open to Qatar Airways First and Business Class passengers, as well as Privilege Club Platinum and Gold members traveling on the airline. Its design reflects the carrier's commitment to luxury and attention to detail, featuring artistic Arabic calligraphy, Mediterranean-style tiles, and water fountains that create a tranquil atmosphere .

Upon the lounge's opening, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive H.E. Akbar Al Baker emphasized its symbolic importance, stating: "The Dubai Premium Lounge is a symbol of our commitment to continuously evolve our customers' experience, by taking everything a step above expectations. This attention to detail, and passion to deliver more to our customers, is what has earned Qatar Airways such a prestigious reputation amongst the international traveller and aviation community" .

The lounge includes private family zones, shower facilities, spacious seating areas, and serves international cuisine, ensuring that Qatar Airways passengers in Dubai receive a ground experience consistent with what they would expect at Hamad International Airport. This investment is particularly notable given the competitive dynamics of the Dubai market, where Emirates operates expansive lounge facilities of its own.

Safety and Service Credentials

Qatar Airways' position in the Dubai market is reinforced by its strong safety record and industry recognition. In the 2026 AirlineRatings.com safety rankings, Qatar Airways secured fourth place among the world's safest full-service airlines, trailing only Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Qantas . This ranking places it ahead of Emirates, which took fifth position, underscoring the high safety standards maintained by both carriers.

The safety assessment considered multiple factors, including fleet age and technological advancement, major incidents over the preceding two years, fatality records, and crew training standards . For travelers choosing between Qatar Airways and Emirates on the Doha-Dubai sector, the close safety rankings provide reassurance that either choice represents a commitment to operational excellence.

AirlineRatings.com CEO Sharon Petersen noted that competition among top carriers remains exceedingly close, with "less than four points covered positions one through 14" and "only 1.3 points separated the top six full-service airlines" . This competitive proximity means that for Dubai-bound passengers, the choice between Qatar Airways and Emirates often comes down to factors beyond safety, including schedule convenience, loyalty program benefits, and onboard experience preferences.

The Passenger Experience: Dubai Perspectives

The Short-Haul Challenge

The Doha-Dubai sector presents unique challenges for any airline's service delivery. At approximately 45 minutes of flight time, the sector is among the shortest international routes operated by full-service carriers. This compressed timeline tests an airline's ability to deliver a meaningful onboard experience while maintaining operational punctuality.

For business class passengers, the short sector means that the full Qsuite experience—with its privacy doors, dine-on-demand service, and lie-flat beds—cannot be fully appreciated. Instead, the focus shifts to efficient service delivery: a swift welcome drink, a light meal or snack service if time permits, and attentive cabin crew interaction that sets the tone for the journey .

Passenger reviews suggest that Qatar Airways generally meets this challenge effectively. Business travelers appreciate the consistency of service standards, noting that the professionalism of cabin crew on the short Dubai sector mirrors what they experience on longer flights. The ability to earn and redeem Avios through the Privilege Club, with its Oneworld alliance connections, adds value for frequent travelers who may combine Qatar Airways flights with other carrier services .

Economy Class: Comfort and Consistency

For economy passengers on the Doha-Dubai route, Qatar Airways offers a product that emphasizes comfort within the constraints of short-haul operations. The airline's economy seating across its fleet generally provides 31 inches of seat pitch and 18 inches of seat width, dimensions that rank among the more spacious in the industry .

On specific aircraft types operating the Dubai route, passengers may experience variations in seating dimensions. Qatar Airways' Boeing 777 aircraft offer 32 inches of seat pitch, though seat width narrows slightly to 17.3 inches. Some Boeing 787-9 aircraft in the fleet provide an notably generous 34 inches of seat pitch, offering exceptional legroom for the short sector .

The consistency of Qatar Airways' economy product across its fleet means that passengers traveling from Dubai to destinations beyond Doha can expect a similar level of comfort regardless of the aircraft operating their specific flight. This reliability is particularly valued by travelers connecting through Doha to longer-haul destinations in Asia, Africa, or Europe.

The Doha Transit Experience

For many passengers originating in Dubai, the true value of choosing Qatar Airways lies not in the short flight to Doha but in the transit experience at Hamad International Airport and the onward journey beyond. Doha's hub has consistently ranked among the world's best airports, offering passengers a seamless connection experience with efficient transfer procedures and world-class facilities.

Transit passengers from Dubai have access to the full range of Hamad International's amenities, including the Al Mourjan Business Lounge for premium travelers, extensive duty-free shopping, quiet rooms, and dining options representing cuisines from around the world. The airport's architecture and design create a sense of calm and luxury that aligns with Qatar Airways' brand positioning.

For passengers connecting to Africa, the Middle East, or Asia, Doha often offers more efficient routings than Dubai, with shorter flight times to many destinations and more convenient connection banks . This network advantage represents a key differentiator for Qatar Airways when competing for Dubai-originating traffic.

The Competitive Landscape: Qatar Airways vs. Emirates in Dubai

The Home Carrier Advantage

Emirates enjoys the advantages of incumbency and scale in its home market. As Dubai's flag carrier, it operates from a hub that is central to the city's identity and economy. Its vast fleet—including the world's largest A380 operation—offers passengers frequency and capacity that Qatar Airways cannot match on many routes .

For Dubai residents and visitors, Emirates' extensive network means that most major destinations are served by direct flights, reducing the need to connect through another hub. The airline's lounges at Dubai International are among the largest and most luxurious in the industry, offering premium passengers an exceptional ground experience before departure .

Emirates' ICE entertainment system is widely regarded as one of the best in the sky, with an extensive content library that keeps passengers engaged on long flights . For travelers originating in Dubai who value entertainment options highly, this represents a significant advantage.

Qatar Airways' Differentiation Strategy

Despite Emirates' home field advantage, Qatar Airways has successfully carved out a distinct position in the Dubai market through several differentiation strategies.

The Privacy Proposition: Qatar Airways' Qsuite business class product, available on many of its long-haul aircraft, offers a level of privacy that Emirates' more open business class cabins cannot match . For business travelers connecting through Doha to onward destinations, the ability to work or rest in a private suite represents compelling value.

Loyalty Program Flexibility: Qatar Airways' Privilege Club uses Avios as its currency, allowing members to earn and redeem points across the Oneworld alliance, including on British Airways, American Airlines, and Cathay Pacific . This flexibility appeals to travelers who fly with multiple carriers and value the ability to consolidate their loyalty earnings in a single, transferable currency.

Network Niches: While Emirates serves more than 150 destinations worldwide, Qatar Airways' network of over 170 destinations includes some routes where Doha offers a more efficient connection than Dubai . For travelers heading to secondary cities in Africa, the Middle East, or Asia, Qatar Airways may provide the only one-stop option with a premium carrier.

Quieter Cabin Experience: Passenger feedback consistently notes that Qatar Airways' cabins tend to be quieter and more relaxed than Emirates', with softer lighting and a more intimate atmosphere . For travelers who prioritize rest and calm during their journey, this difference can be significant.

The Loyalty Program Trade-Off

For frequent travelers based in Dubai, the choice between Qatar Airways and Emirates often comes down to loyalty program preferences. Emirates Skywards offers straightforward earning and redemption within the Emirates and flydubai network, with particularly attractive options for redeeming miles on Emirates' A380 First Class suites .

Qatar Airways Privilege Club, by contrast, offers greater flexibility through its use of Avios and Oneworld partnerships. Travelers can earn Avios on Qatar Airways flights and redeem them on British Airways for European short-haul trips, or on Cathay Pacific for Asian destinations. For travelers who value this flexibility and maintain relationships with multiple Oneworld carriers, Qatar Airways becomes the logical choice even when departing from Dubai .

Operational Challenges and Regional Dynamics

The Dubai-Doha route operates within a complex regional environment that occasionally presents operational challenges. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have at times affected airspace availability, requiring airlines to adjust routings and flight planning . While these challenges are typically managed without significant passenger disruption, they underscore the importance of choosing carriers with robust operational capabilities and contingency planning.

For Qatar Airways, operating to Dubai also requires navigating the diplomatic relationship between Qatar and the UAE. Following the resolution of the Gulf diplomatic crisis in 2021, relations have normalized, allowing for the resumption of full flight schedules and diplomatic engagement. The airline's continued investment in the Dubai market, including its dedicated lounge facility, signals confidence in the long-term stability of this relationship.

The Passenger Experience Spectrum

Premium Cabin Experiences

For business class passengers on Qatar Airways flights from Dubai, the experience begins before boarding with access to the Dubai Premium Lounge. This facility provides a calm, luxurious environment away from the bustle of the main terminal, with attentive service and quality dining options .

Onboard the short flight to Doha, service is efficient and professional. While the full Qsuite experience cannot be realized in 45 minutes, passengers appreciate the consistency of service standards and the ability to begin their journey in a premium environment. For those connecting to longer flights in Doha, the brief Dubai sector serves as a prelude to the more extensive onboard experience to come.

Economy Class Perspectives

Economy passengers on the Dubai route generally report positive experiences, noting the efficiency of boarding and disembarkation, the comfort of seating, and the professionalism of cabin crew . Given the short sector length, meal service is typically limited to light refreshments, but the quality of offerings remains consistent with Qatar Airways' premium positioning.

For economy passengers connecting through Doha to longer-haul destinations, the Dubai-Doha sector functions as an efficient feed into the airline's global network. The ability to check baggage through to the final destination and receive boarding passes for all sectors at departure from Dubai simplifies the travel experience and reduces stress during the Doha transit.

A Notable Incident: The Seat Swap Debate

A recent incident on a Qatar Airways flight from Cincinnati to Dubai, while not originating in Dubai, illustrates some of the dynamics that can affect passenger experiences on the airline. The flight, operating a Cincinnati-Dubai routing, became the subject of viral attention when a business class passenger was asked by another traveler to swap seats so that the requester's child could experience the premium cabin .

The requesting passenger, who had received an upgrade herself, argued that the young woman occupying the business class seat should relinquish it to her child. The situation escalated until cabin crew intervened, explaining that airline policy prohibited moving passengers from business class to economy class against their will .

While this incident occurred on a US-originating flight, it highlights broader issues relevant to the Dubai market: the value passengers place on premium cabin experiences, the importance of clear airline policies regarding seating, and the need for crew training to handle sensitive situations diplomatically. For Dubai passengers investing significant sums in business class tickets—whether on Qatar Airways or Emirates—the expectation is that their purchased experience will be protected by airline policies and crew enforcement.

Discussion: The Paradox of Competition and Cooperation

Flying in a Rival's Backyard

Qatar Airways' success in the Dubai market represents a notable achievement in brand positioning and customer loyalty. To operate successfully in the home city of one's primary competitor requires a value proposition compelling enough to overcome the natural advantages of incumbency. That Qatar Airways has done so, maintaining a robust schedule and investing in dedicated facilities like the Dubai Premium Lounge, speaks to the strength of its brand and the appeal of its product.

For Dubai-based travelers, the presence of a strong competitor to Emirates yields tangible benefits. Competition drives service improvements, keeps fares in check, and provides travelers with meaningful choice. A traveler who values privacy and a quiet cabin can choose Qatar Airways; one who prioritizes entertainment options and the A380 experience can choose Emirates. This diversity of options enriches the travel landscape and ensures that both airlines must continually innovate to retain customer loyalty.

The Network Effect

The Qatar Airways value proposition in Dubai hinges significantly on its global network beyond Doha. For travelers heading to destinations where Emirates offers direct flights, the choice is straightforward: the non-stop option will typically prevail. But for the many destinations where no direct flight exists, the choice between connecting in Doha versus connecting in another hub becomes material.

Qatar Airways' network strengths in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia give it an edge for travelers heading to these regions . The efficiency of Hamad International Airport as a transfer hub, with its compact design and efficient processes, further enhances the value proposition for connecting passengers.

The Future Outlook

Looking ahead, several factors will shape Qatar Airways' position in the Dubai market. The continued expansion of Emirates' network, including new routes to Helsinki and enhanced frequencies to Cairo, demonstrates Dubai's home carrier's commitment to growth . Premium Economy offerings on key routes will attract travelers seeking enhanced comfort at price points below business class.

For Qatar Airways, maintaining its competitive position will require continued investment in product differentiation and service excellence. The Qsuite remains a distinctive advantage that resonates with business travelers who value privacy. The Privilege Club's integration with Avios and Oneworld partners provides flexibility that appeals to frequent flyers with diverse travel patterns.

Regional stability will also play a role in shaping the market. The normalization of relations between Qatar and the UAE has enabled the current level of cooperation and competition; sustained stability will allow both airlines to focus on service excellence rather than diplomatic navigation.

Conclusion

Qatar Airways has established a meaningful and sustainable presence in the Dubai market, operating multiple daily flights from Doha to Dubai International Airport with a product strategy that emphasizes privacy, service consistency, and seamless global connectivity. Through investments like the Dubai Premium Lounge and the integration of its Privilege Club with the Avios currency and Oneworld alliance, the airline offers Dubai-based travelers a compelling alternative to home carrier Emirates.

Passenger experiences on the Dubai-Doha sector reflect the broader strengths of the Qatar Airways product: comfortable seating across all classes, professional cabin crew service, and efficient operations. While the short sector length limits the extent to which premium cabin features can be appreciated, the consistency of service standards ensures that passengers arrive in Doha ready for their onward journey with a positive impression of the airline.

The competitive dynamic between Qatar Airways and Emirates in Dubai ultimately benefits travelers, who gain access to two world-class carriers with distinct product philosophies and network strategies. Whether choosing Qatar Airways for its private Qsuite and Oneworld connections or Emirates for its A380 experience and extensive direct network, passengers in Dubai enjoy options that few other cities can match.

For Qatar Airways, success in Dubai demonstrates that premium service standards and a compelling value proposition can transcend political boundaries and overcome the advantages of incumbency. As both carriers continue to expand and innovate, travelers can expect the competition in this unique market to drive ever-higher standards of excellence.

References

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