Absher | أبشر: Transforming eServices in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been making monumental strides in digital transformation, and at the heart of this revolution is Absher | أبشر. Regarded as one of the country’s most important digital platforms, Absher is paving the way for seamless communication between government services and the citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia.

With Absher, tasks that once required time-consuming visits to government offices can now be done in just a few clicks. Curious about how this system is driving efficiency, addressing challenges, and shaping the future of e-Government? Here’s everything you need to know about Absher, from its services to its controversies and future.

---

What Is Absher | أبشر?

Absher is Saudi Arabia’s official eServices mobile application and portal, designed to simplify everyday tasks for both citizens and expatriates living in the Kingdom. Available in both Arabic and English, Absher provides an interactive digital environment for users to access government services effortlessly.

Launched by the Saudi Ministry of Interior, Absher’s purpose is to provide secure and efficient electronic services, ranging from civil affairs to passport-related tasks, reflective of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan to modernize its economy and facilities.

The platform hosts over 21 million registered users, demonstrating its popularity in fulfilling citizens’ and residents’ needs through a user-friendly interface grounded in security and privacy.

---

Understanding the Services Offered by Absher

One of the key strengths of Absher is its wide range of services. Whether an individual is based in Riyadh, Khobar, or Jeddah, this platform offers access to over 300 services, categorized into two primary segments—individual services for personal use and business services for employers.

1. Key Services for Individuals

Absher caters to personal needs with eServices designed to provide convenience and save time. Some of the most widely used services include:

• Government IDs and Passport Management:

Renew, manage, or update your passport and family identity cards without standing in long queues.

• Traffic Services:

Pay traffic fines, check driving records, and renew driving licenses instantly.

• Electronic Visas:

Apply for exit/re-entry visas for residents or track visa status online.

• Civil Affairs Requests:

Register a marriage, birth, or death and update address information with just a few clicks.

2. Services for Businesses

Absher empowers businesses and employers to streamline their operations. For example:

• Iqama (Residency Permits):

Perform Iqama renewals or corrections effortlessly and ensure compliance with Saudi labor laws.

• Employee Management:

Employers can efficiently manage their workforce, labor transfers, and work contracts.

3. Special Features of Absher

The inclusion of real-time alerts and notifications ensures that users are informed of relevant updates, while the secure browsing experience guarantees that user data remains private and safe.

---

Advantages and Controversies Surrounding Absher

Advantages

Absher has undoubtedly made life easier for millions of people living in Saudi Arabia by offering undeniable benefits:

1. Convenience:

Routine tasks such as renewing a car registration now take minutes instead of hours.

2. Efficiency:

With reduced paperwork, users can accomplish tasks at their convenience, without needing to visit government offices.

3. Security:

Absher places strong emphasis on data privacy and ensures user activity on the platform is encrypted and secure.

Controversies

However, Absher hasn’t been free from criticism. International organizations and media outlets have highlighted concerns related to its potential misuse:

• Privacy Concerns:

Critics argue that user surveillance could compromise individual freedoms and question the depth of Absher’s security protocols.

• Human Rights Discussion:

Some have noted certain features—like tracking dependents—that could unwittingly reinforce societal constraints on specific groups, leading to discussions on gender roles and rights in Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi government has maintained, however, that the app adheres to privacy standards and exists solely to serve the administrative needs of users.

---

How to Use Absher | أبشر in 4 Easy Steps

Navigating Absher for the first time? Don’t worry. Follow these simple steps to get started with the most popular services offered by the platform.

Step 1. Register and Log in

• Download the Absher app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
• Sign up using your national ID or Iqama number and link your account to a secure Saudi mobile number.

Step 2. Verify Your Identity

• Complete identity verification using the Absher system. This step ensures your data and profile remain secure.

Step 3. Access Your Desired Service

• Navigate through the easy-to-understand dashboard to access the service you need. For example:
• Renew a Passport by selecting ‘Passports’ from the menu and entering the required information.
• Request Visa Extensions via the ‘Expatriates’ section.

Step 4. Submit and Track Your Request

Once you’ve completed and reviewed your request, submit it for processing. You can track its progress right from your Absher account.

---

The Future of Absher in Saudi Arabia

Absher is more than a tool—it’s a step toward the future. The platform is expected to evolve further in alignment with Saudi’s Vision 2030, prioritizing convenience, sustainability, and global competitiveness across all aspects of Saudi life.

Here’s what’s next for Absher:

• AI Integration:

By incorporating AI, Absher could expand into predictive services, identifying user needs before they even make a request.

• Cross-platform Integration:

Expanded interconnectivity with other public sector platforms is expected to create an integrated digital ecosystem.

• Creating International Models:

Absher’s success is setting benchmarks for other nations considering similar digital transformation initiatives.

---

Share Your Thoughts about Absher

With Absher, Saudi Arabia is showcasing exactly how technology can simplify everyday life. While it’s not without its debate-worthy topics, millions rely on the platform to save time and effort.

What’s been your experience with Absher? Did it exceed your expectations? Or are there parts of the platform that could use improvement? Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts below.

---