Saudi male guardians will soon be able to approve travel permits online for the female members of their families, said Col. Badar Al-Malik, spokesman of the General Directorate of Passports. The official was quoted in a section of the Arabic press on Tuesday as saying that guardians can access the directorate's website and fill out applications. This will speed up the approval process, Al-Malik said. The directorate wants to get rid of paper procedures. Passport officers at air, land and sea ports can access electronic permits and ensure they have been signed properly by guardians without having to print any paper, Al-Malik explained. An informed source at the directorate said that the “Ibsher” online service, which is under construction, will enable Saudi citizens to check all their personal and family information online.
