JEDDAH, 12 September — The Kingdom has taken practical steps for automatic printing of official documents such as Saudi ID cards, iqamas and driving licenses, using advanced computer technology.
Interior Minister Prince Naif yesterday signed a number of contracts with specialized companies for the National Information Center at the Interior Ministry.
"The contracts include printing and reprinting of security documents including civilian ID cards and family cards, driving licenses and iqamas, using smart card technology," an official statement said.
"These electronic cards will meet international standards," it said. The cards will contain all information, including the fingerprints of their bearers. The family cards will be smaller in size.
The ministry disclosed plans to establish a general database and design an automatic processing system, the statement said, adding that it would form the first phase of an e-government.
Dr. Khaled ibn Muhammad Al-Taweel, director general of the information center, commended the government’s efforts to strengthen the center by acquiring modern technology.
The contracts include import of equipment, training of staff, technical support and consultancy services.
The signing ceremony was attended by Prince Muhammad ibn Naif, assistant interior minister for security affairs.
"The signing of the new contracts comes as part of the prince’s efforts to meet the requirements of all the ministry’s sections for modern technology," the statement said.
"This will help provide better and speedy services to citizens and expatriates," the ministry said.
