The Saudi Ministry of Interior has launched five new digital services on its widely used Absher platform, aiming to further modernize government operations and enhance citizen services. These additions, unveiled at the Absher 2025 Conference in Riyadh, represent a continued push towards digital transformation within the ministry and across the Kingdom. The new services leverage technologies like artificial intelligence to improve security, efficiency, and decision-making.
The launch event, inaugurated by Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, showcased the Ministry’s commitment to innovation in public service delivery. The conference, a three-day event in partnership with Tuwaiq Academy, highlighted the platform’s growing impact and future development plans. These new features are expected to benefit millions of users and contribute significantly to the Kingdom’s digital economy.
Expanding the Absher Platform’s Capabilities
The five new services are designed to address a range of needs, from public safety to internal operational improvements. “Absher Assistant” utilizes delegated artificial intelligence to streamline user interactions and provide more personalized support. “Comprehensive Field” focuses on bolstering security and safety measures through enhanced data analysis and response capabilities.
Additionally, the platform now offers “Secured Conversations,” a secure communication channel within the Absher application itself. This feature aims to protect sensitive information exchanged between citizens and government entities. The “Talk to Your Data” service provides leadership with advanced analytical tools to support informed decision-making, while the “Central Database” service consolidates and analyzes 911 emergency reports for improved response coordination.
Digital Transformation and its Impact
According to Eng. Tamer Al-Harbi, Deputy Assistant Minister of Interior for Technology Affairs, the Ministry continues to prioritize digital excellence. The launch of these services is part of a broader effort that includes over 30 new digital products and services planned across various sectors, including Civil Status, Public Security, and Passports. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of diversifying the economy and improving the quality of life for citizens.
The Absher platform has already achieved significant milestones. Assistant Minister of Interior for Technology Affairs Prince Bandar bin Abdullah stated that the platform now hosts over 400 digital services, serving more than 32 million users through the National Unified Access Platform. The Ministry estimates the platform generates a social and economic impact exceeding SR20 billion annually, with a user satisfaction rate exceeding 93 percent.
However, the Ministry’s ambitions extend beyond simply digitizing existing processes. Prince Bandar emphasized a focus on leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, smart imaging, and interactive journeys to proactively address security challenges, manage crowds, protect borders, and combat crime. This proactive approach is intended to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s digital standing both domestically and internationally.
Recognizing Innovation and Fostering Talent
The Absher 2025 Conference also served as a platform to recognize innovation within the Ministry and the wider tech community. The conclusion of the Absher Tuwaiq initiative was announced, having benefited over 150,000 citizens across 16 cities in the Kingdom. This initiative likely focused on upskilling citizens in digital technologies.
Furthermore, the winning teams of the “Absher Tuwaiq Hackathon” were honored. The hackathon, which broke the Guinness World Record for the largest of its kind with 4,100 participants, demonstrates the growing interest and talent in the Saudi tech sector. The event’s success underscores the importance of fostering a collaborative environment between government and the private sector.
Strategic Partnerships for Future Growth
To further accelerate its digital transformation, the Ministry of Interior has forged a strategic partnership with Humain, an artificial intelligence company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). This collaboration will focus on developing and implementing new digital solutions to enhance the Absher system and address emerging challenges. The partnership with Humain signals a commitment to utilizing local expertise in AI development.
The Ministry’s increasing reliance on digital platforms like Absher also raises considerations around data privacy and cybersecurity. While the “Secured Conversations” feature addresses one aspect of security, ongoing investment in robust cybersecurity measures will be crucial to maintaining public trust and protecting sensitive information. The development of a national cybersecurity strategy is a related area of focus for the Saudi government.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Interior is expected to continue expanding the functionality of the Absher platform and integrating new technologies. The success of the Absher 2025 Conference suggests a continued commitment to innovation and a data-driven approach to public service. The timeline for the rollout of the remaining 30+ digital products and services remains unclear, but further announcements are anticipated in the coming months. Monitoring the platform’s evolution and the impact of these new services will be key to understanding the future of digital government in Saudi Arabia.
The Ministry will also likely focus on improving accessibility and user experience across all its digital services, ensuring that all citizens can benefit from the ongoing transformation. The integration of emerging technologies, such as blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT), could also be explored to further enhance security and efficiency.
