Quick Summary
- Absher is the Saudi government's official digital services platform
- Available as a mobile app and website — free to use
- You need your Iqama number and Saudi mobile number to register
- Check iqama status, expiry date and any violations instantly
- Apply for exit re-entry visas, check Huroob status and manage dependents
- Every expat in Saudi Arabia should have Absher set up — it is essential
What Is Absher?
Absher (أبشر) is the official digital services platform of the Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI). It allows Saudi citizens and residents (expats) to access a wide range of government services online without needing to visit government offices in person.
For expats specifically, Absher is essential. It is the only official way to check your iqama status, verify your residency information and monitor any flags or violations on your record — including Huroob. Every expat in Saudi Arabia should have it installed and set up from their very first week in the Kingdom.
How to Download and Install Absher
- iOS (iPhone): Search "Absher" on the Apple App Store. The official app is published by the Ministry of Interior, Saudi Arabia. Download and install.
- Android: Search "Absher" on Google Play Store. Same publisher — Ministry of Interior. Download and install.
- Web version: Visit absher.sa on any browser. Full functionality available on desktop too.
How to Register on Absher as an Expat
Open Absher App
Launch the app and select "Register" on the main screen. Choose "Resident" (not Saudi Citizen) as your account type.
Enter Your Iqama Number
Enter your 10-digit Iqama number exactly as shown on your iqama card. This is your primary identifier in the Saudi government system.
Enter Your Date of Birth
Enter your date of birth in the Hijri (Islamic) calendar format. If you do not know your Hijri date of birth, use an online Hijri converter — search "Gregorian to Hijri converter."
Verify Your Saudi Mobile Number
Enter the Saudi mobile number registered to your iqama. An OTP (one-time password) will be sent to this number. This is why you must have a Saudi SIM card registered to your iqama.
Create Password and Complete Setup
Create a strong password for your account. Complete any additional verification steps required. Your Absher account is now active and you can access all services.
Key Services on Absher for Expats
Iqama Status Check
Check your iqama expiry date, current status and any violations instantly.
Huroob Status Check
See if your employer has filed Huroob against you and what status it is in.
Exit Re-entry Visa
Check if your exit re-entry visa is active and view its validity dates.
Final Exit Status
Verify if a Final Exit visa has been issued by your employer and its expiry.
Dependent Management
View dependents on your iqama, check their status and manage exit visas.
Traffic Violations
Check and pay any traffic violations registered to your iqama number.
Pay Government Fees
Pay various government fees and fines directly through the app.
Appointment Booking
Book appointments at Jawazat, traffic department and other government offices.
How to Check Iqama Status on Absher
- Open Absher app and log in
- Tap "My Services" from the main menu
- Select "Residency Services"
- Tap "Iqama Inquiry" or "Residency Status"
- Your current iqama details, expiry date and status are displayed
Check this at least once a month. Do not wait for your employer to tell you — know your own status at all times.
How to Check Huroob Status on Absher
- Log into Absher
- Go to "My Services" → "Residency"
- Look for "Absconding" or "Huroob" status indicator
- If Huroob is active it will be clearly shown with a red indicator
- If no Huroob — your status will show as clear
How to Check Exit Re-entry Visa on Absher
- Log into Absher
- Go to "My Services" → "Exit Visas"
- Your active exit re-entry visa details will show — issue date and expiry
- If no visa is shown, no exit visa has been issued — you cannot travel
Absher vs Qiwa — What Is the Difference?
| Feature | Absher | Qiwa |
|---|---|---|
| Operated by | Ministry of Interior (MOI) | Ministry of Human Resources (HRSD) |
| Main Focus | Residency and visa services | Employment and labour services |
| Iqama Status | Yes | Yes |
| Employment Contract | No | Yes |
| Exit Visa Check | Yes | No |
| Sponsorship Transfer | No | Yes |
| Huroob Status | Yes | Partial |
Every expat should have both Absher and Qiwa accounts set up. They serve different purposes and together give you complete visibility of your legal status in Saudi Arabia.
Common Absher Problems and Solutions
I cannot register — says my Iqama number is not found
Ensure you are entering the correct 10-digit iqama number. Try both with and without the leading zero if applicable. If still not found, visit the Jawazat office with your iqama — your data may need to be updated in the MOI system.
OTP is not arriving on my phone
The mobile number registered to your iqama in the MOI system may be different from your current number. If you changed SIM cards, your old number may still be in the system. Visit the Jawazat to update your registered mobile number.
My iqama shows as expired on Absher but my employer says it was renewed
There can be a delay between renewal processing and the Absher system updating. Wait 24–48 hours after your employer says it was renewed. If it still shows expired after 48 hours, ask HR for the transaction reference number as proof the renewal was submitted.
I am outside Saudi Arabia and cannot access Absher
Absher works globally — it is not geo-restricted. If you have access issues from abroad, try the web version at absher.sa instead of the mobile app. Ensure your registered Saudi mobile number is active to receive OTP.
Can my employer see what I check on Absher?
No. Your Absher account is personal and private. Your employer uses Absher Business — a completely separate platform — for their administrative tasks. They cannot see your personal Absher activity.
Seeing Something Concerning on Absher?
If Absher is showing Huroob, an unexpected Final Exit or anything alarming about your iqama status — book a consultation immediately. Acting fast can make the difference in how these situations are resolved.