Absher is the official online platform for government services in Saudi Arabia. Through the Absher website and app, residents and citizens can handle Iqama services, visas, traffic fines, appointments, and much more — without visiting an office. But Absher does not cover everything, and sometimes the system itself becomes the problem.
This guide explains what Absher can do, how to set up your account, and when it is better to visit a service office instead.
What Is Absher?
Absher is the Ministry of Interior’s digital services platform. There are two main versions:
- Absher Individuals — for citizens and residents to manage their own services and their dependents.
- Absher Business — for employers and companies to manage employee services such as Iqama renewals and visas.
Most residents use Absher Individuals. Once your account is activated, you can access a wide range of services from your phone.
What You Can Do on Absher
Absher covers many everyday services, including:
- Iqama services — check expiry, renew dependents’ Iqamas, and view your residency details
- Visas — issue exit re-entry visas for dependents, check visa status, and apply for visit visa extensions where allowed
- Traffic — check traffic violations, view fines, and object to a violation
- Passports — services for Saudi citizens, including passport renewal and travel permits
- Civil affairs — appointments and services for Saudi citizens
- Driving licence — renewals and related services
- National Address — register and update your address
- Appointments — book appointments at government offices
- Reports — request official reports and print documents
The list grows over time, and new services are added regularly. If a service is available on Absher, it is usually the fastest way to get it done.
How to Register and Activate Your Absher Account
- Register online. Go to the Absher website and create an account with your Iqama or national ID number and your mobile number.
- Verify your identity. You will receive a verification code on your registered mobile number.
- Activate your account. Activation is done through fingerprint verification at a self-service machine, through your bank’s online service, or at an activation point.
- Log in and set up the app. Download the Absher app, log in, and enable notifications so you never miss an update.
Keep your login details safe and never share your password or verification codes with anyone.
When Absher Is Not Enough
Absher is powerful, but it has limits. You may need an office when:
- Your account is locked or your fingerprint fails. Repeated login problems sometimes need in-person help.
- Your mobile number has changed. Updating the registered number can be difficult without access to the old one.
- The service you need is not on Absher. Some procedures still require a visit to Jawazat or another office.
- Your case is complicated. Unpaid fines, expired documents, sponsor problems, or system errors often need a person to sort out.
- You are not confident with the app. If the steps are unclear, a small mistake can cause a rejection or a delay.
In these situations, a service office can check your case, explain what is needed, and handle the steps with you — in your own language.
Common Absher Problems and Fixes
- “I cannot log in.” Check that your Iqama number and password are correct. If the account is locked, wait for the lock to clear or reset your password. Repeated failures may mean your fingerprint or mobile verification needs updating.
- “I did not receive the verification code.” Make sure the mobile number registered with Absher is the one you are using. If you changed your number, it must be updated first.
- “The service I need is not showing.” Some services depend on your status — for example, a visa service may not appear if your Iqama is expired or there are unpaid fines.
- “The system shows an error.” Note the error message. Often the problem is a missing document, an unpaid due, or a mismatch in your details.
If you cannot solve the problem yourself, bring your Iqama and your phone to an office — the issue can usually be identified quickly.
Tips for Using Absher Safely
- Only use the official Absher website and app.
- Never share your password or one-time codes with anyone — no official will ask for them.
- Keep your mobile number updated so you always receive verification codes.
- Check your Iqama expiry and traffic fines regularly, not only when there is a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Absher free to use?
Yes, registering and using Absher is free. Government fees for the services themselves — such as renewals or visas — still apply and are shown in the system.
Can I use Absher in English?
Yes, Absher is available in English and Arabic. You can switch the language in the app or on the website.
What should I do if my Absher account is locked?
Wait for the lock period to end, then try again with the correct details. If it keeps happening, your fingerprint or mobile verification may need to be updated — an office can help you with this.
Can someone else use Absher for me?
You should never share your Absher login with anyone. If you need help, visit an office with your documents — they can guide you while you stay in control of your account.
Need Help With Absher?
If Absher is giving you trouble, or you would rather have someone handle it with you, visit Al Hijaz General Service in Al-Khumra, Jeddah (Street 60, opposite Mustawsaf Nofa), or message us on WhatsApp at +966559956131. We are open 10 AM to 11 PM and speak Arabic, English, Urdu, and Hindi. Bring your Iqama and your phone, and we will help you sort it out. Final approval for any government service is always decided by the relevant government authority.