In a new step reflecting the accelerating pace of digital transformation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the General Directorate of Border Guards, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Interior, launched a package of new electronic services through the Ministry of Interior’s electronic platform “Absher” and the Border Guards’ electronic services portal “Zawel”.
The launch took place at the Directorate's headquarters in Riyadh, in the presence of the Director General of the Border Guard, Major General Shaye bin Salem Al-Wadaani. These services come within the framework of the Ministry of Interior's ongoing efforts to automate its services and facilitate procedures for citizens and residents, in line with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places improving the quality of life and upgrading government services at the heart of its priorities.
General context: Absher platform and Vision 2030
The Absher platform, launched by the Saudi Ministry of Interior, is a cornerstone of the Kingdom's e-government strategy. Since its inception, the platform has evolved into a comprehensive portal offering hundreds of services to millions of users, covering multiple sectors such as passports, traffic, civil affairs, and now border guard services. This ongoing expansion is an integral part of Vision 2030, which aims to build an efficient and transparent government that leverages technology to deliver innovative services, reducing bureaucracy and saving time and effort for beneficiaries.
Details of the new services and their importance
The new package included three main services aimed at regulating and facilitating maritime activities:
1. Sailing Permit Service: Through the “Absher Individuals” platform, owners of marine vessels can now issue “sailing permits” electronically for various purposes, including fishing, recreation, or rescue. The service not only issues permits but also allows users to easily view, extend, modify, or even cancel existing permits, providing greater flexibility and enhancing the regulation of coastal navigation.
2. Electronic Diving Permits: Through the “Zawel” portal, linked to the “Absher Business” platform, the electronic diving permit service has been launched. This service is aimed at accredited diving centers and professional divers, enabling them to issue and manage diving permits electronically, whether for shore or open sea diving, and for recreational or training purposes. This service was developed in cooperation with the Saudi Arabian Maritime Sports and Diving Federation to ensure its compliance with the highest standards and regulations.
3. Marine Vehicle Driving License Service: Also through the “Zawel” portal, those wishing to obtain a marine vehicle driving license can book appointments for the theoretical and practical test electronically, and after passing the test, they can view the digital license directly through the portal.
Expected impact of new services
Domestically, these services will enhance maritime safety by providing an accurate and up-to-date database of vessels and individuals authorized to sail and dive. They also support the Kingdom's promising coastal tourism and leisure sector by streamlining procedures for enthusiasts and investors. Regionally and internationally, these initiatives reinforce the Kingdom's position as a leader in government digital transformation and set a benchmark for leveraging technology to serve citizens and achieve sustainable development goals.
