How to Fix Common Absher Login Problems for Expats in Saudi Arabia

Expats in Saudi Arabia rely on the Absher platform for many essential services, so it can be frustrating when you can’t log in. Don’t worry these login issues are common and usually easy to resolve. This guide will walk you through verified fixes for the most frequent Absher login problems, from missing SMS codes to Nafath app hiccups. We’ll explain why each problem happens, step by step solutions, and how to prevent it in the future. Let’s get your Absher account running smoothly so you can get back to your daily life.

SMS Verification Code Not Received

Why it happens When you log in to Absher, a one time password (OTP) is sent via SMS to your registered mobile number. If the code never arrives, common causes include an outdated or incorrect phone number on your account, network delays, or message blocking. For example, if you recently changed your SIM or have a dual SIM phone, Absher might be sending the code to a number you’re not actively using. Sometimes the carrier or your phone’s settings may block automated messages, treating them as spam. Poor signal or temporary network issues can also delay the OTP SMS.

How to fix it Use this checklist to troubleshoot an OTP that hasn’t arrived

• Verify your number Ensure the mobile number on your Absher profile is current and entered correctly. An incorrect or old number is the most common reason for not receiving codes. If you changed your phone or SIM, update your Absher number via the online portal or an Absher self service kiosk.

• Check for blocks Look at your phone’s SMS blocking or spam settings. The message might have been filtered out. If you previously reported similar messages as junk, your carrier could be blocking them. Unblock the sender often a short code or “MOI” ID and request the code again.

• Improve signal Make sure you have a stable network connection. A weak signal or network congestion can delay the OTP SMS. If you’re in a low signal area, move to a spot with better reception or toggle airplane mode off and on to refresh your connection.

• Resend after waiting Don’t hammer the resend code button repeatedly. Wait a minute or two, then try again. Absher might temporarily throttle OTPs if you request too many in a short time. In fact, some systems impose a longer timeout if multiple codes are requested you may need to wait up to 24 hours if you hit a request limit.

• Consider your SIM setup If you use dual SIMs, ensure the correct line is active for SMS. Sometimes setting one SIM as the default for messages helps. Also, if you are currently abroad and using international roaming, be aware that receiving OTP texts can be unreliable. Enable roaming on the Saudi SIM or use Absher’s alternative login via Nafath (see below) if the SMS won’t come through while overseas.

How to avoid it next time Always keep your Absher registered phone number up to date, especially if you switch carriers or SIM cards. Before traveling outside Saudi Arabia, make sure your Saudi SIM can roam or set up other expat friendly verification options like the Nafath app as a backup. For extra guidance, see other expat friendly verification options on Ksa Buddy. It’s also wise to not block service SMS messages on your phone or via your carrier use built in spam filters with caution so that important OTPs aren’t caught in the net. By maintaining a current number and good communication settings, you can ensure those login codes arrive promptly when you need them.

Nafath Login Problems (No Approval Request, Session Expired, etc.

Why it happens Nafath is the national unified login system, and Absher often uses it for two factor authentication. When you choose “Login via Nafath,” the system pushes an approval request to your Nafath mobile app for you to confirm. If you never see that approval prompt on your phone, it could be because your Nafath app isn’t properly set up or your phone number isn’t linked correctly. One common issue is using Nafath on a device that doesn’t have the same number or credentials as your Absher account the request won’t reach you if there’s a mismatch. Notifications might be disabled or your session might time out the request expires after 60 seconds if not acted on. In some cases, being on a VPN or outside KSA can prevent Nafath from working, since the service may require a local network and can detect VPN usage.

How to fix it Try these steps to resolve Nafath login issues

• Open the app manually If the push notification doesn’t come through, open your Nafath app and check the “Requests” or notifications section. Often the approval is pending there even if you didn’t get an alert. Make sure you’re logged in to the Nafath app beforehand.

• Act quickly Remember that the login request expires after a short time (about one minute) if you don’t approve it. So when logging in on Absher, be ready on your phone. If the session expired error shows up, simply try logging in again but this time respond faster on the app.

• Verify your phone number and account Ensure the mobile number linked to your Nafath and Absher is your current active number. If you suspect the number on file is wrong or outdated, update it through Absher there’s an option to change your phone number via the website or banks before using Nafath. Using the correct registered phone is critical for receiving the login requests.

• Enable notifications and location Check your phone’s settings to confirm that Nafath app notifications are allowed. Also enable location services for Nafath if prompted some users report that allowing location can help, possibly as an extra security check by the app.

• Update or reinstall Nafath Make sure the Nafath app is updated to the latest version. If it’s glitching, try logging out and back in. In some cases, deleting and reinstalling the app can clear issues you’ll have to log in again. This refreshes the app’s connection to the service.

• Turn off VPN and use local network If you’re using a VPN, disconnect it and try again. Nafath may not work properly behind a VPN. Similarly, if you’re outside Saudi Arabia, the service might be geo restricted for certain actions. Try using a Saudi network or wait until you’re back in kingdom for critical updates if possible.

How to avoid it next time First, complete your Nafath setup when things are working normally make sure your device is authorized and your biometrics or passcode in the app are configured. Keep the app updated and periodically test it for instance, Nafath can be used to log in to other government services too, which keeps it active. Always maintain the same phone number and device on your Absher and Nafath account to avoid mismatches. When logging in, have your phone nearby and internet on, so you don’t miss the prompt. By being prompt and having everything in sync, you’ll rarely run into Nafath login snags.

Absher Account Locked After Failed Login Attempts

Why it happens: For security, Absher will temporarily lock your account if you enter the wrong password or OTP too many times. This lockout is meant to prevent fraud, but it can catch you off guard if you simply mis typed your credentials. Multiple failed login attempts or even suspicious activity like trying from an unusual location can trigger a block. The result is that even with the correct password, you won’t be able to log in for a certain period. Typically, the account unlocks automatically after the timeout often after 15 or 30 minutes, but in some cases it might remain locked until you take action. It’s essentially Absher’s way of saying “pause and verify” after too many tries.

How to fix it Here’s how you can regain access if your Absher account gets locked

• Wait for a while The simplest fix is to give it some time. Absher usually lifts temporary lockouts after a cooldown period (e.g. half an hour). While you wait, double check that you’re using the right username or ID number and password, including proper letter case. Sometimes, the issue is as simple as an accidental Caps Lock or a keyboard language mix up.

• Use “Forgot Password” If you can’t log in at all, go to the Absher login page and click “Forgot Password.” Enter your ID or Iqama number, mobile number, and the captcha code, then follow the steps to reset your password. You’ll have to answer one of your secret security questions and enter a verification code sent to your phone, then set a new password. This process will both reset your password and unlock your account. It’s effective if you remember the answers to your security questions and have your registered phone on hand.

• Contact support if needed In case you’re still locked out for example, if you forgot the answer to your secret question or the reset process isn’t working, you may need to contact Absher support. Absher’s official helpline is 920020405, and they can verify your identity to manually unlock your account if necessary. You might be asked to provide personal details or visit a branch or kiosk for identity verification if the issue is complex.

• Check for other issues Very rarely, an “inactive” or blocked status could indicate an issue with your account beyond just password attempts for instance, if your Iqama has expired, your Absher might become inactive. If the lockout persists, confirm your Iqama is valid and that you don’t have any outstanding violations or fees causing an account block.

How to avoid it next time Prevention is key with account lockouts. Use careful typing or a password manager to avoid mistyping your password repeatedly. Remember that your username is case sensitive and can be your chosen username or your ID number either works to log in. If you’re unsure of your username, using your Iqama ID is a quick solution Absher allows the ID number as the username by default. It’s better to reset your password after a couple failed attempts than to keep guessing this saves you from triggering the lock. Also, keep your contact number and email updated on Absher so you can quickly use recovery options if you get locked out. By taking these precautions, you’ll minimize the chances of an unexpected lockout.

Forgotten Absher Username or Password

Why it happens It’s easy to forget your Absher login details if you haven’t signed in for a while. Expats often have to memorize multiple IDs and passwords, and Absher credentials can slip the mind. With Absher, your username might be something you chose during registration but importantly, you can always use your national ID or Iqama number as an alternative username if you forget it. The password, however, must be reset if forgotten there’s no way to retrieve the old one for security reasons. If you attempt a few passwords and none work, it’s best to go for a reset before the account locks as described above.

How to fix it Recovering your Absher login is straightforward

• Username recovery As noted, your Iqama ID number itself works as a username on Absher. On the login page, where it asks for Username, you can enter your 10 digit Iqama number. This is a quick solution if you don’t recall creating a special username or have forgotten it. In fact, the Ministry of Interior confirms that you can use your ID number in place of a username at any time. If you had a different username and want to retrieve it, Absher’s site offers a “Retrieve Username” option for visitors, but using the ID is usually easiest.

• Password reset If you forgot your password, click the “Forgot Password” link on the Absher login screen. You will need to fill in your ID or Iqama number and your registered mobile number, then go through a verification process. Absher will send a verification code to your phone to ensure it’s really you and prompt you to answer one of your preset security questions. Once you verify those, you can set a new password and confirm it. Choose a strong password that you haven’t used before. After resetting, use the new password to log in. This whole process only takes a few minutes and will restore your access.

• No access to phone or email If you have forgotten your password and you no longer have the mobile number or email that you registered with, the online reset won’t work because you can’t get the verification code. In this case, you’ll need to update your mobile number via an Absher self service kiosk or through your bank’s online Absher registration service many major Saudi banks let you update Absher info through their apps or ATMs. Once your number is updated, you can do the normal password reset. As a last resort, contacting Absher support or visiting a Jawazat office with your ID might be necessary to recover the account.

How to avoid it next time To avoid forgetting your login details, keep a secure record of your Absher username and password for example, in a trusted password manager or a secure note. Make sure your email address in Absher is current, since it can be used for account notifications and could help in recovery. It’s also a good idea to update your password every so often to something memorable yet secure. If you ever suspect you’ve forgotten your password, use the reset feature proactively don’t wait until you urgently need to log in. And as mentioned, your Iqama number is a handy username fallback knowing that can save you in a pinch if you blank on a custom username.

Browser or App Specific Problems Safari, App Version, Slow Loading

Why it happens Sometimes the issue isn’t your account at all, but the way you’re accessing Absher. Different browsers and app versions can introduce quirks. For instance, many users have noted that Absher’s website doesn’t play well with certain browsers Safari in particular. You might log in and see a blank page or an error if your browser is blocking cookies or if the site is under heavy load. Safari’s default privacy settings can prevent Absher from storing the necessary session data leading to login loops or service not available messages. On the mobile side, if you’re using an outdated version of the Absher app, it may crash or fail to connect. After major updates to the Absher system, older app versions might stop working properly. Additionally, if your phone’s operating system is old or if you’ve recently updated iOS or Android and the app isn’t updated, compatibility issues can arise. Slow loading could simply be due to high traffic for example, when a new service opens up on Absher, many people log in at once or a slow internet connection. In summary, the software you use to access Absher matters and both the browser environment and app version can affect your login experience.

How to fix it Depending on how you access Absher, try the following fixes

• Switch or update your browser If you encounter problems on Safari e.g. buttons not responding or pages not loading, try using a different browser like Google Chrome or Firefox. These often handle the Absher portal more consistently. If you prefer Safari, you may need to adjust settings go into Safari’s settings and disable Prevent Cross Site Tracking and enable cookies for the session Absher uses a secure verification domain that might be blocked by strict settings. After logging in, you can turn your privacy settings back on. Always use the latest version of your browser outdated browsers might have certificate or compatibility issues with Absher’s site.

• Clear cache and cookies A quick cache clear can resolve loading loops. On your browser, clear the cache and site data for absher.sa, then refresh and try logging in again. This ensures you’re loading the latest scripts and that any corrupted session info is wiped. Similarly, on the Absher mobile app, you can clear its cached data on Android, via App Info > Storage > Clear Cache on iOS, you might need to reinstall if you suspect an app cache issue. Clearing data often fixes glitches like the app hanging or crashing on login.

• Update the Absher app If you’re using the mobile app and facing login errors or crashes, check for updates in the App Store or Google Play. The government regularly updates Absher, and older versions might lose compatibility, causing login failures. Always install the newest version. If the app is already updated but still misbehaving, try uninstalling and reinstalling it fresh. After reinstall, you’ll need to log in again, but this can solve issues stemming from a faulty update install.

• Check your device and OS Ensure your device’s date and time settings are correct and set to automatic incorrect time can sometimes affect security handshakes for login. Also, if you’re on a very old version of Android or iOS, consider updating your system. There have been cases where outdated OS certificates caused apps like Absher or banking apps to stop connecting securely. Keeping your phone’s OS up to date helps maintain compatibility with Absher’s security requirements.

• Patience with performance If Absher is slow or not loading after you log in, the cause might be on the server side especially during peak usage hours or when new services launch. Before tinkering further, wait a moment and try refreshing the page. It’s also worth testing your internet speed if your connection is slow, switch to a faster network or close other apps using bandwidth. In cases of known Absher maintenance or outages, you may simply have to try again later Absher’s official Twitter or announcements sometimes alert users to downtime. Fortunately, such slowdowns are usually temporary.

How to avoid it next time As a rule, keep your browsing and device environment up to date. Use modern browsers and update the Absher app whenever a new release is available. For critical tasks, many expats report that using Absher on a desktop browser like Chrome on a PC is very reliable, so consider that as a fallback if the mobile app gives you trouble. Adjust your browser privacy settings when using Absher allowing cookies and not using a VPN will make for a smoother login. Finally, stay informed if a login problem seems widespread, check expat community forums or social media to see if others are facing it too. It might be a temporary system issue. With an updated app, a compatible browser, and a bit of awareness, you can sidestep most technical hiccups.

Conclusion

Managing your Absher account is crucial for a hassle free expat life in Saudi Arabia, and that means being prepared to tackle login issues head on. We’ve covered the top five problems from missing OTPs to locked accounts with practical fixes that have worked for fellow expats. To recap, always keep your account info like mobile number and password current, use the official recovery tools when you hit a snag, and don’t hesitate to leverage support channels for help. By following the step by step solutions above and adopting the preventative tips, you’ll significantly reduce the chances of getting locked out of Absher at the wrong time. Remember, each problem has a verified solution. Stay patient and systematic when troubleshooting, and you’ll be back into your Absher account in no time, ready to access the services you need. Safe and happy travels through the digital bureaucracy!