In a new step reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to accelerating the digital transformation of government services, the General Directorate of Passports launched four new electronic services today (Thursday) through the Ministry of Interior's e-services platform (Absher). This launch, held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Interior, underscores the leadership's keen interest in developing the security and service sectors.

Details of new services via Absher

The package of services launched included a range of measures of interest to a wide segment of citizens and residents, namely:

• Resident Photo Update Service: This service allows updating the personal photo in the resident ID electronically without the need to visit passport offices.
• Dependent Record Cancellation Service: To facilitate the procedures for dropping dependents in accordance with regulatory controls.
• Dependent separation service: which enables the beneficiary to separate dependents from the head of household's record when they reach the legal age or when there is a need to do so.
• Absher Travel Service at Salwa Border Crossing: This service aims to facilitate procedures for travelers crossing the border crossing with the State of Qatar.

Enhancing efficiency and quality of life

Commenting on the launch, the Acting Director General of Passports, Major General Saleh Al-Muraie, affirmed that this initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance electronic services. He noted that the primary objective is to save time and effort for users, streamline procedures, and improve the quality of passport services. He also emphasized that these smart solutions directly contribute to increasing the efficiency of services provided and support the Ministry's digital transformation.

The context of digital transformation and Vision 2030

This step aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , specifically the National Transformation Program, which aims to automate government services and achieve a "paperless government." The "Absher" platform is the Ministry of Interior's most powerful technological arm, having successfully transformed hundreds of services over the past years—services that previously required in-person visits and caused overcrowding at offices—into simple clicks via smartphones.

The expansion of port services, such as the “Absher Travel” service at the Salwa port, reflects the Kingdom’s keenness to facilitate movement, tourism and trade between the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, as these services allow travelers to complete a large part of the travel procedures before arriving at the port, which reduces waiting time and increases the smooth flow of traffic at the border ports.

The General Directorate of Passports’ continued provision of these services confirms the success of the Ministry of Interior’s digital strategy, which has made the Kingdom a leading regional and global model in the field of e-government and smart services.

His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Defense, received in the capital, Riyadh, His Excellency the Chief of the Pakistani Army, General Asim Munir, in a fraternal meeting that reflected the depth of the historical ties that unite the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Strengthening the defense and strategic partnership

During the meeting, the distinguished bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries were reviewed. Both sides affirmed the strength of the deep-rooted fraternal ties, which are based on a long history of joint cooperation. Prince Khalid bin Salman and his Pakistani counterpart emphasized the importance of the strategic defense partnership and the need for continuous efforts to develop it in line with regional and international changes, and to fulfill the aspirations of the leadership of both countries in building an integrated security system that serves their common interests.

The depth of historical relations between Riyadh and Islamabad

This visit is a continuation of a long history of close alliance between the Kingdom and Pakistan. Relations between the two countries are characterized by a unique nature that transcends traditional diplomatic dimensions, evolving into a strategic partnership. Pakistan has long been a key partner for the Kingdom in military and security matters, sharing a rich history of joint military exercises and the exchange of expertise, reflecting a convergence of views on the challenges facing the region and the Islamic world.

A pivotal role in maintaining international peace and security

During the discussions, both sides addressed the pivotal and leading role played by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in maintaining international peace and security. They affirmed that cooperation between these two major Islamic powers is a cornerstone of stability in the Middle East and South Asia. They also explored ways to enhance joint coordination in addressing security challenges and combating terrorism, thereby ensuring sustainable security and supporting development efforts in both countries.

The meeting concluded with an affirmation of the two countries’ commitment to continue consultation and coordination on all issues of common interest, and to move forward in strengthening military and defense cooperation, for the benefit of the two brotherly peoples and to contribute to strengthening global stability.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz issued a royal decree appointing Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed bin Nasser Al-Yousef as Attorney General of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with the rank of Minister, succeeding Sheikh Saud Al-Muajab. This royal decree comes within the framework of strengthening the judicial system with national talents possessing deep judicial and administrative expertise, in line with the rapid developments the Kingdom is witnessing on various fronts.

The importance of the decision and the context of judicial development

The appointment of Dr. Khalid Al-Yousef represents a significant strategic step for the Public Prosecution, given his extensive legal background encompassing both administrative law and academia. This appointment comes at a time when the Kingdom is witnessing substantial legislative and judicial reforms as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on establishing the principles of justice, transparency, and the protection of rights. The Public Prosecution is a fundamental pillar of the judicial system, responsible for investigating crimes and representing clients in court, making the selection of a young and highly qualified leader crucial to ensuring continued efficiency.

Outstanding academic qualifications

The new Attorney General's academic background is solid; he holds a bachelor's degree in Sharia from Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University. He continued his academic pursuits, earning a master's degree with highest honors from the Higher Institute of the Judiciary (Department of Regulations), where his research focused on administrative law and the judiciary. He culminated his academic career with a doctorate from the Higher Institute of the Judiciary, also with highest honors, for his dissertation entitled "Judicial Oversight of Administrative Control Decisions – A Comparative Study," reflecting his deep expertise in administrative and regulatory systems.

Extensive judicial experience in the Board of Grievances

Prior to his appointment as Attorney General, Dr. Al-Yousef progressed through the ranks of the judiciary at the Board of Grievances since joining in 1423 AH (2002/2003 CE). His diverse experience encompassed administrative, commercial, disciplinary, and criminal cases, granting him a comprehensive understanding of various types of cases. During his tenure, he issued numerous landmark judicial rulings and presided over several judicial circuits, gaining practical experience in managing court sessions and adjudicating disputes.

Leadership and administrative positions

Al-Yousef's career was not limited to the purely judicial field; he also held high-level administrative and technical positions, including membership in the Technical Affairs Office at the Board of Grievances, and general supervision of the Decision Support Center, which includes vital offices such as strategic planning and performance monitoring. He also supervised the office of the President of the Supreme Administrative Court, participated in the preparatory committee for the court to commence its functions, led the teams that prepared the strategic plan and performance management system, and oversaw digital transformation projects and the electronic archiving of judgments.

Academic and training contributions

On the academic front, Dr. Khalid Al-Yousef is known as a certified legal trainer for judges of the Board of Grievances and a visiting lecturer at King Saud University and Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University. He has examined numerous dissertations at the Institute of Public Administration and represented the Board of Grievances on expert committees at the Council of Ministers, studying international laws and agreements. This makes him a comprehensive legal figure who combines theoretical knowledge with practical application.