Introduction to Saudi Arabia’s Digital Transformation in Passport Services
Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in modernizing its passport and immigration systems. The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has announced the introduction of a new “Self-Deportation Platform” that will allow illegal residents to complete their departure procedures online. This initiative marks a major shift from traditional deportation methods, aiming to streamline the process and make it more efficient.
The announcement was made by Acting Director General of Jawazat, Maj. Gen. Saleh Al-Murabba, during the Digital Government Forum 2025 in Riyadh on Thursday, November 6, 2025. He emphasized that the digital platform will be launched once all security, technical, and operational measures are finalized. According to Al-Murabba, this system will enable individuals who have violated residency, labor, and border laws to complete their exit processes electronically, reducing the need for physical interactions.
Advancements in Airport Procedures
In addition to the self-deportation platform, Jawazat is preparing to launch a “smart track” system designed to simplify airport procedures. This innovative system will utilize smart cameras capable of verifying the identities of up to 35 travelers at once, allowing them to pass through without interacting with passport officers. This advancement is expected to significantly reduce waiting times and improve the overall travel experience for passengers.
Al-Murabba also revealed plans to introduce “Digital Twins” technology, an advanced system that uses data models and analytics to monitor crowd movements, calculate waiting times, and assess passenger satisfaction. This technology was successfully tested during the 2024 Hajj season, according to reports from the Saudi Gazette. The implementation of Digital Twins is anticipated to enhance the efficiency of airport operations and improve passenger experiences.
Expansion of Digital Passport Services
The directorate is also working on expanding the use of digital passports through new international agreements. The digital passport, already available through the “Absher” platform, is being developed further to facilitate global use. These efforts are aimed at streamlining departure procedures and eliminating the need for passengers to go through manual passport control. Smart devices, automated verification, and connected security systems will play a crucial role in facilitating smoother travel experiences.
Unified Gateway for International Coordination
Jawazat is planning to establish a “unified gateway” for real-time exchange of passenger data between countries. This initiative is intended to improve international coordination during transit through Saudi Arabia, ensuring a more seamless and efficient travel process for visitors. The goal is to turn Saudi Arabia’s ports of entry into AI-powered smart gateways that ensure faster and more efficient travel.
Current Digital Services and Future Goals
Highlighting the Ministry of Interior’s ongoing digital transformation, Al-Murabba noted that visitors to the Kingdom can already witness major advancements in passport services. The directorate currently offers over 100 digital services through the Absher platform, benefiting more than 24 million users in 2024. Additionally, the newly launched Smart Voice Agent service provides 24/7 assistance without human intervention, available through the number 992.
These developments underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its immigration and passport services. By embracing digital solutions, the country aims to create a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for both residents and visitors.
Conclusion
The introduction of these new digital platforms and technologies represents a significant step forward in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to modernize its passport and immigration systems. With a focus on automation, efficiency, and user experience, the General Directorate of Passports is setting the stage for a future where travel through the Kingdom is faster, smoother, and more secure. As these initiatives continue to roll out, they are expected to have a lasting impact on the way people interact with passport and immigration services in the region.