Current Affairs - International

The missile drill “Sustainable Power 1404” was carried out by Iran in the Gulf of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean. This exercise, which included warships, air units, missile defense systems, and precision-strike cruise missiles such as Nasir and Qadir, was aimed at strengthening combat readiness and reinforcing maritime deterrence. The drills followed the June 2025 conflict involving Israel and were viewed as a counter-response to Israeli military simulations targeting Iranian nuclear sites. By showcasing resilience and advanced strike capabilities, Iran sought to signal both regional power projection and preparedness for any future escalation.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah launched the Nusuk Umrah service to simplify and modernise the pilgrimage process for international visitors. The platform enables pilgrims to directly apply for Umrah visas and book essential services online, including accommodation, transportation, and guided tours. By offering both integrated packages and customizable options, the initiative enhances convenience and accessibility for millions of Muslims worldwide. This digital service reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy of improving the pilgrimage experience, supporting Vision 2030 goals, and ensuring that religious tourism is streamlined, transparent, and aligned with global digital transformation trends.

Dubai has launched the ‘One Freezone Passport’ initiative, which allows companies licensed in one free zone to expand their operations into other free zones without the need for additional licenses. This move simplifies regulatory processes, enhances business flexibility, and reduces operational costs for global firms. Louis Vuitton became the first company to benefit from this system, facilitating its operations between Jafza and the DWTC Free Zone. By unifying its free zone ecosystem, Dubai strengthens its status as a global business hub, attracting multinational companies and fostering a more streamlined and competitive economic environment.

TikTok has collaborated with the Nepal Tourism Board to promote tourism by showcasing the country’s cultural richness and natural beauty. The campaign will be driven by local as well as international creators, who will share short-form videos highlighting Nepal’s must-see attractions and unexplored destinations. Running through 2025, the initiative will also feature a dedicated #VisitNepal in-app experience, designed to engage global audiences. This partnership reflects a modern approach to tourism promotion, leveraging the wide reach of social media platforms like TikTok to boost international visibility and attract more travelers to Nepal.

Dubai has introduced an AI-powered passenger corridor at Dubai International Airport (DXB), marking a groundbreaking shift in air travel. This initiative, part of the “Travel Without Borders” vision, enables travelers to clear immigration in as little as 14 seconds without presenting passports or documents. The corridor uses artificial intelligence, facial recognition, and biometric verification to authenticate passengers seamlessly, while automatically flagging suspicious cases for review. Initially launched in Terminal 3’s First and Business Class lounges, the system supports up to 10 passengers at once. By removing traditional passport counters, Dubai sets a new global benchmark for frictionless and secure international travel.