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.