Things To Understand About The Muqeem Card

Starting on the first day of Islamic calendar for the year 1437 or Oct. 15, 2015, the Saudi government will no longer issue Iqama. Instead, it will be replaced with Muqeem card, a resident card.

The Muqeem card would contain photo, name, date of birth, number, occupation, nationality, work eligibility, religion, employer name, and work permit number. 

Image from Arab News

Unlike the Iqama, which expires within 1 to 2 years, the Muqeem card could stay valid for up to 5 years or more because there will be no expiry date on it. The employer or sponsor is only required to renew and pay the permit every year online through Muqeem services or Abshir services.

Al-Shalhoub said cards would only be issued if expatriates have made payment, have medical insurance and work permits. It would save everyone time because all processes are online; and its security measures would prevent fraud, he said.

Maj. Gen. Solaiman Al-Yahya, director general of the Department of Passports (Jawazat) said, "The objective behind the issuing of the new ID card is to reduce the cost of reprinting the current Iqama (residence permit) every year. It will also reduce the pressure on sponsors.”  

In Riyadh they are now trying to deliver the Muqeem cards in the headquarters of every company through Wasel service (courier) of the Saudi Post.


Al Yahya said that the implementation of Muqeem cards will also include automated service in Jawazat when it comes to reporting and cancelling of Huroob (run away) cases. An employee will be notified via text message if he/she has been reported as Huroob and will be given 15 days to file objection at the Jawazat. He said, “We are keen to preserve the rights of both the workers and sponsors” .

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