In a move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to developing its digital services and facilitating the lives of citizens and residents, the Absher platform announced the launch of the “Absher Travel” service for travelers crossing into Qatar by land via the Salwa border crossing. This service is part of the Kingdom’s comprehensive digital transformation efforts, which aim to reduce paperwork and expedite government services, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
General context: Digital transformation and the importance of the Salwa border crossing
The Absher platform, launched by the Saudi Ministry of Interior, is a cornerstone of the government's e-government strategy. Since its launch, the platform has provided hundreds of services that have enabled users to complete their transactions efficiently and easily from anywhere, at any time. The expansion of its services to include land travel procedures further underscores this commitment.
The Salwa border crossing holds strategic importance as the only land crossing connecting Saudi Arabia and Qatar. It has witnessed a significant increase in passenger and cargo traffic, particularly following the Al-Ula Summit in 2021, which restored diplomatic and trade relations between the two countries. Its importance was further highlighted during Qatar's hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, as hundreds of thousands of fans crossed through it, necessitating the development of infrastructure, logistics, and digital services to meet the increased demand.
Advantages of the “Absher Travel” service and its expected impact
The new service aims to radically improve the passenger experience by reducing waiting times at the terminal. Its key advantages include:
- Pre-registration of data: The service allows travelers to electronically register vehicle data and the data of all passengers before arriving at the port.
- Speeding up procedures: Upon arrival, pre-registered data is quickly checked, reducing downtime at passport and customs booths.
- Travel eligibility verification: The system automatically checks the validity of travel documents and any other requirements, giving the traveler peace of mind before starting their trip.
- Private route: Service users benefit from a dedicated route at the port, ensuring a smoother and more seamless passage.
This service is expected to have a positive impact both locally and regionally. Locally, it enhances the efficiency of government agencies operating at border crossings and provides a superior travel experience for citizens and residents. Regionally, it contributes to strengthening economic, tourism, and social ties between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and supports the smooth movement of people, which serves the interests of joint Gulf integration.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Service
The Absher platform clarified a number of important points for beneficiaries:
- Target audience: The service is available to both citizens and residents.
- Payment of fees: Bridge fees and insurance can be optionally paid via the “Absher” application in advance or upon arrival at the port.
- Vehicle ownership: The service user must be the owner of the vehicle or officially authorized to drive it.
- The trip creator must be one of the travelers: The person who created the trip via the app must be one of the travelers.
- Required documents: The original travel document (passport or national ID) must be brought and presented upon request at the port of entry.
- Spatial verification: Biometric verification is required via the “Nafath” application when approaching passport booths, or through a passport officer if digital verification is not possible.
