JEDDAH: Absher, the interactive online platform provided by the Saudi Interior Ministry, served 18.3 million users in the past year, according to ministry statistics.
Since its launch in 2009/2010 it has answered 1.2 billion queries from registered users, at a rate of 120 million queries a year, the figures reveal. It was also used to perform 300 million transactions, approximately 30 million a year.
The online Absher service was introduced to increase productivity and promote more efficient work practices within government departments, while raising customer satisfaction levels. A smartphone app was added in 2015.
The platform provides access to 280 services provided by the Ministry of Interior to users in three categories: Individuals, business and government. It can be used to apply for jobs and Hajj permits, update passport information, make appointments, renew IDs and drivers’ licenses, register vehicles and pay traffic fines, among many other things. The services its provides are available to residents as well as
citizens; they can use it to renew residency permits and apply for visas, for example.
Absher is credited with improving life in Saudi Arabia by making it much easier for citizens and residents to interact with government departments to obtain information and complete required procedures and paperwork from the comfort of their own homes.
It has also made it easier for people to resolve potentially serious and costly problems.
For example, father-of-five Abdul Aziz Hazmi, was in the UK for a work assignment three years ago while two of his daughters remained in Jeddah. They were due to visit him when a problem cropped up at the airport.
“Back then they needed my permission on the app to travel back and forth, and without Absher they wouldn’t have been able to come and visit us,” he said. “I thought I’d already set those travel options for them when I did it for their siblings, but one of my daughters called me before boarding the plane panicking about not being allowed on.”
Hazmi told his daughter not to worry and reassured her that he would sort the problem out through the Absher app. Sure enough, four minutes later the girls were able to board the flight.
“Though they don’t need that service anymore, Absher still saves a lot of time and energy,” said Hazmi. “Renewing our national IDs and passports is the best feature. I used to dread the crowds at the application centers. I’d have to excuse myself for an entire day from work just to get my passport renewed.”
Waad Baleegh, a 24-year-old from Jeddah, also likes the fact that Absher streamlines and speeds up the provision of services such as the renewal of ID cards.
“I book my appointments through the app and print everything beforehand, and when I go to receive my new ID card there’s very little communication,” she said. “It gets things done so swiftly and easily.”
The Interior Ministry is participating this week in GITEX Technology Week in Dubai, where they are showcasing Absher, which was the first e-government platform in the Kingdom.
The ministry’s plans include the further development of e-government services into a “smart government” system that uses the power of artificial intelligence to help achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
18m used Saudi Arabia’s Absher services last year
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18m used Saudi Arabia’s Absher services last year
- The platform provides access to 280 services provided by the Ministry of Interior
Kuwait’s crown prince meets foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations
- Meeting takes place on sidelines of 46th extraordinary meeting of GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers discuss developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza
RIYADH: The crown prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, met the Saudi minister of foreign affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and the foreign ministers of other Gulf Cooperation Council member states at Bayan Palace in Kuwait City on Thursday
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 46th extraordinary meeting of the GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers and other officials discussed the latest developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza.
They stressed the need to uphold Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the aftermath of the fall of President Bashar Assad’s regime this month, and condemned Israeli authorities for their attacks against Syria and Lebanon.
They also affirmed the GCC’s support for the Palestinian people and called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faith
- Hira Cultural District has books, gifts and special cuisine
- ‘Revelation Exhibition’ focuses on messages to prophets
MAKKAH: As winter arrives, the Hira Cultural District in Makkah, a landmark destination combining history, knowledge and services for tourists, has emerged as a hub for residents and visitors seeking cultural and recreational experiences.
At the heart of the district lies the “Revelation Exhibition,” which vividly narrates the story of divine messages to the prophets. It features a section focused on the life of Prophet Muhammad and the significance of Hira Mountain.
Using cutting-edge audiovisual technology, the exhibition is an immersive and enriching journey through Islamic history, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The district’s cultural library offers a treasure trove of information on the history of Makkah and Madinah, the life of the prophet, and the legacy of Hira Mountain and its surrounding areas.
This knowledge can be explored through books, scientific references, and interactive displays.
Beyond its historical and educational appeal, the cultural district constitutes a vibrant destination for leisure and commerce.
Restaurants and cafes serve a mix of local dishes inspired by Makkah’s heritage alongside international cuisine, while shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs reflecting the district's identity.
The Saudi Coffee Museum adds a distinctive flavor to the experience. Here guests can savor traditional Saudi coffee while learning about its regional variations and preparation methods.
For those seeking adventure, the district provides access to the Cave of Hira via a specially paved pathway, allowing visitors to connect with the site’s spiritual and historical significance.
A visitors’ center provides comprehensive information on the district’s features, services and cultural offerings.
Saudi attorney general holds talks with Turkish counterpart in Makkah
MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s attorney general, Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib, praised the strong relationship between the Kingdom and Turkiye as he welcomed a delegation led by his Turkish counterpart, Muhsin Senturk, to Makkah on Thursday.
The officials discussed legal collaborations between their nations and affirmed their desire to enhance judicial cooperation to serve common interests, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Indulge in the magical wizarding World of Harry Potter at Riyadh Season
- The pop-up experience offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles
RIYADH: Harry Potter: A Riyadh Season Adventure is one of the many enthralling and enchanting experiences on offer at Riyadh Season this year.
The pop-up experience, brought to life by Warner Bros., offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles.
Set in the vibrant Boulevard City, the area is designed to showcase some of the most iconic locations from the beloved film series, such as Hogwarts and others.
Interactive technology plays a significant role in the experience. Guests can take part in a Great Hall Sorting Experience, where they find out which Hogwarts house they belong to, and engage in Quidditch activities, as well as practice their Quaffle skills on the pitch.
There is also a zone where visitors can try wands and cast magical words they learned from the film series, like “Expecto Patronum.”
For those looking to take a piece of the magic home, the Wizarding World Shops offer exclusive merchandise, ranging from wands to house scarves, and the Three Broomsticks Food Hall offers refreshing drinks, cupcakes and other desserts.
Costumes are a big part of the fun experience, and there is a dedicated area for shopping, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect outfit to enhance their visit.
Maram Al-Ruwaili, a passionate fan dressed as a Slytherin, shared her excitement: “I’ve been a Potterhead since 2003. Now at 31, I still consider myself a big fan. I’ve tried one Harry Potter experience before, but not in Saudi Arabia.
“This time, sitting in the Great Hall, surrounded by sound effects from the films, made it feel like we were true Hogwarts students. The atmosphere, especially with the Dementors and Christmas sounds, was magical.”
The event has attracted a diverse crowd, including international visitors.
Nanditha Krishnakumar, an enthusiastic attendee from India, expressed her love for the experience: “I’ve adored Harry Potter since childhood, and this is truly amazing. It feels so lifelike and brings my dreams to life. I love Slytherin; it might seem like an evil house, but it’s one of my favorites. I can’t wait to see what else is in store.”
Aisleen de Asis, a nurse who has lived in Saudi Arabia for almost a decade, shared her perspective: “Harry Potter is a significant part of my childhood. I heard about this experience from friends and colleagues who enjoyed it, and I had to check it out myself. Being here brings back so many nostalgic memories.”
The Harry Potter experience at Riyadh Season also celebrates community and shared passion.
Fans from various backgrounds are coming together to relive the magic of their childhood, creating connections through their love for the series.
The excitement is palpable, as visitors share their stories, dress up as their favorite characters, and take part in the interactive activities that bring the magic of the books and films to life.
Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the series, the magical experience is not to be missed.
Misk Foundation celebrates NGO graduates
RIYADH: The Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, also known as Misk, celebrated the graduation of the fourth cohort of the Misk Initiatives Incubator and Impact Accelerator programs at a ceremony held recently at Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City in Riyadh.
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Al-Swaha and Misk Foundation CEO Badr Al-Badr, along with representatives of government agencies, NGOs and donors, attended the ceremony.
During the event, 11 youth initiatives were transformed into nonprofit organizations with the support of the Misk Initiatives Incubator program. Four NGOs were empowered through the Impact Accelerator program, contributing to achieving the objectives of the nonprofit sector and enhancing the role of young people in development.
Fifteen NGOs took part in the two programs, benefiting 177 people. They were provided with more than 2,000 hours of mentorship and financial grants exceeding SR7 million ($1.86 million) to support the implementation of projects serving young people. The ceremony also featured inspiring success stories, highlighting future projects aimed at amplifying social impact.
