According to the Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia welcomed over 16.5 million tourists in 2022. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful country and want to ensure a seamless experience, there are official mobile applications available to assist with visa requirements, flight and accommodation bookings, and transportation services.
Whether you’re embarking on a pilgrimage for Umrah, seeking leisurely activities, or simply spending time with loved ones, these five apps are essential for your journey.
1. Visit Saudi
Discover the most sought-after tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia and plan your entire trip with ease using the ‘Visit Saudi’ app. This innovative app, operated by the Saudi Tourism Authority, offers comprehensive guides for tourists, including information on visa requirements, tour packages, and the latest activities and events happening in the country.
With the ‘Visit Saudi’ app, visitors can access an interactive map that allows them to search for accommodation, museums, events, restaurants, parks, and historical landmarks in major cities throughout Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, this app has got you covered.
Downloading the ‘Visit Saudi’ app is quick and easy. Simply head to the Apple iOS Store or Google Play Store and start exploring all that Saudi Arabia has to offer. With this app, you’ll have everything you need to make your trip to Saudi Arabia an unforgettable experience.
2. Absher
The Absher mobile application is the most convenient way to access commonly used Saudi government services. This app is available on Apple, Android, and Huawei app stores, making it easily accessible to all users.
Developed and operated by the Ministry of Interior (MOI), the Absher app provides users with access to a range of government services. These services include visa applications and extensions, the ability to dispute traffic violations, and obtaining a police clearance certificate.
It’s important to note that the Absher app is not exclusively for Saudi citizens and residents. Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, dependents of residents, and visitors holding valid tourist visas can also use the app.
One of the app’s most useful features is finding your border number. This number is issued by the Saudi General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) to every passport holder who enters Saudi Arabia on a new visa. Additionally, visitors can search for traffic fines registered against their vehicle, which is particularly helpful for those planning to drive while in Saudi Arabia.
Overall, the Absher app is a valuable tool for anyone needing to access Saudi government services. Its user-friendly interface and wide range of services make it an essential app for residents and visitors.
3. Nusuk
When embarking on a journey to Saudi Arabia for Umrah, it is crucial to have the Nusuk app on your phone. This app serves as the official planning and booking platform for creating your itinerary for Mecca and Medina. With Nusuk, travellers from all over the world can easily organise their entire Umrah journey, from applying for an eVisa to booking flights and hotels. The app also provides guides related to Umrah rituals for pilgrims, making it an essential tool for anyone undertaking this spiritual journey.
International travellers can also book Umrah packages from licensed providers on the app, ensuring a hassle-free and seamless experience. Additionally, with Hajj expected to start around June 26 this year, Nusuk has launched a separate platform – hajj.nusuk.sa/ – specifically for booking and managing the Hajj pilgrimage for travellers from Europe, Australia, and North and South America.
The Nusuk app is available for Apple, Android, and Huawei users, making it accessible to a wide range of travellers. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, Nusuk is the go-to app for anyone planning a pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. So, download the app today and embark on your spiritual journey with ease and confidence.
4. ‘Riyadh bus’ app
On March 19 of this year, the Royal Commission of Riyadh City launched a new and improved bus service in Riyadh. Along with this new network, a mobile application for public transportation was also introduced, called ‘Riyadh bus’.
This innovative app is available for both Apple and Android devices and offers a range of features to enhance the public bus experience. With the ‘Riyadh bus’, passengers can easily purchase tickets, buy a bus card, and access the bus schedule and routes.
This new service is a significant step forward for public transportation in Riyadh and is sure to make commuting easier and more convenient for residents and visitors alike.
5. Najm app
In the event of an accident in Saudi Arabia, the ‘Najm’ app is a lifesaver. This innovative app allows drivers to report traffic accidents quickly and efficiently, expediting the insurance claims process. The app is designed to detect the location of the accident and notify the nearest Najm agent to investigate the incident.
It’s worth noting that ‘Najm’ is an insurance provider that operates under the auspices of the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) and the MOI General Department of Traffic. The app is available for both Apple and Android devices, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
In short, the ‘Najm’ app is an essential tool for drivers in Saudi Arabia. With its user-friendly interface and efficient reporting system, it’s no wonder that it’s become a go-to resource for those who find themselves in an accident. So, if you’re planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, be sure to download the ‘Najm’ app and drive with confidence.
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