RIYADH — The General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has launched the digital version of Muqeem ID and it is available on the Ministry of Interior’s new electronic application “Absher Individuals” under the name of “Muqeem Digital ID” or Resident Digital ID, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The digital ID will help expatriates to escape the fine for not carrying their original plastic Muqeem Card. Capt. Nasser Al-Otaibi, spokesman of Jawazat, said that the Muqeem Digital ID would facilitate the process of verifying the identity of its holders in the event that they do not carry the plastic copy of the original residency permit (Muqeem Card). “This will enable the beneficiary to view the ID data electronically through the “Absher Afrad” (Absher Individuals) application through the variable QR Code. Expatriates can download a copy of it on their smartphone so that they can take advantage of it without the need to connect to the Internet.” Al-Otaibi emphasized that the Muqeem Digital ID will be a turning point in the development of the digital transformation process and electronic transactions of individuals with the relevant sectors by using Absher Individuals portal, which is developed by the ministry in cooperation with the National Information Center. Muhammad Al-Jasser, spokesman of Civil Status under the Ministry of Interior, announced on Monday the launching of the Digital ID of Saudi citizens. On his part, Prince Bandar Al-Mashari, assistant minister of interior for technical affairs, revealed on Tuesday that Saudi citizens and expatriates do not require carrying plastic documents of their national identity, residency permit (Muqeem Card), driving license, and vehicle’s registration (istimara). “The Absher Individuals” portal will help citizens and expatriates dispense with their plastic ID and iqama and enjoy the benefits of carrying its digital version,” he said.