The Absher platform, the leading electronic portal for government services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, clarified the regulations related to the service of changing the first name of citizens, answering one of the most common inquiries: Can the first name be changed twice? The answer contains an important detail, as the systems do indeed allow submitting a change request for the second time, but with one condition, which is that the second request is for the purpose of returning to the previous name.
This online service allows citizens to easily change their first name, or the name of a family member under 18, without needing to visit a civil status office. If this is the first time a person wishes to change their name, they can choose the new name according to the established regulations. If they later decide to change it, the system allows them only one opportunity to revert to their old name through a second application.
The Absher platform and its role in the digital transformation of the Kingdom
The online name change service is an integral part of the comprehensive digital transformation underway in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which falls under the objectives of Vision 2030. The “Absher” platform was launched by the Ministry of Interior to streamline government procedures for citizens and residents, reduce reliance on paper transactions, and save time and effort. The platform has revolutionized service delivery, transforming procedures that previously required frequent visits to government offices into digital processes that can be completed anytime, anywhere.
The importance and impact of the online name modification service
The importance of this service lies in empowering individuals to exercise their right to choose a name that reflects their identity, while maintaining a regulatory framework that ensures the seriousness of the procedures. Previously, the name change process was complex and time-consuming. Now, thanks to digitalization, it has become much more flexible and faster. This facilitation has a direct and positive impact on citizens' lives, giving them the ability to correct or update their names in accordance with their personal wishes, thus enhancing their quality of life and keeping pace with the developments the Saudi government is striving for to serve its citizens efficiently and effectively.
Steps to change your first name via the Absher platform
The “Absher” platform confirmed via its official account on the “X” platform that the service is implemented entirely electronically by following these steps:
- Log in to the beneficiary's account on the Absher Individuals platform.
- From the “My Services” menu, the “Civil Status” sector is selected.
- Accessing the “Civil Status Data Modification Services Center”.
- Select the “Change First Name” service.
- Follow the instructions and fill in the required information to complete the application.
Other family registry services via Absher
In addition to the name modification service, “Absher” offers a comprehensive package of family registry services that can be completed electronically, most notably:
- Issuance of a family record: A service that allows newly married citizens to request the issuance of a family record digitally.
- Issuing a family record for mothers: Enabling Saudi women to issue a family record for themselves and their children.
- Request for a replacement for a lost or damaged record: Report the loss or damage of the family record and request the issuance of a new copy easily.
These services reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to developing its digital infrastructure and providing innovative government services that meet the needs and aspirations of all members of society.
