What Is the Nafath App and How to Use It
If you have tried to log into Absher recently, you have met Nafath — Saudi Arabia's national identity verification app. It is now central to accessing government services securely. This guide explains what Nafath is, how it works, how to set it up, and how to fix the most common problems.
Nafath is Saudi Arabia's national single sign-on and identity verification app. It is used to securely confirm your identity when logging into Absher and other government platforms — typically by approving a login or matching a number shown on screen. You register it once with your Iqama details, and from then on it handles secure verification for your government logins.
What Nafath does
Nafath replaced older SMS-based verification as the secure way to prove who you are when using government services. Instead of a code by text, you confirm a login directly in the Nafath app, often by selecting a matching number shown on the website. This is more secure and is now the standard.
For expatriates, the main place you meet Nafath is logging into Absher, but it is used across many official platforms. Setting it up once unlocks smoother, more secure access to all of them.
Setting up and using Nafath
Registering
Download the Nafath app and register using your Iqama number and details. You may need an active Absher account or to complete a verification step as part of setup.
Approving a login
When you log into Absher or another service, it will show a number. Open Nafath and select the matching number to approve the login.
If Nafath will not approve
Make sure the app is registered to you, you have an internet connection on the phone, and you are selecting the correct number. Reinstalling and re-registering can resolve persistent issues.
Why Nafath matters for your Iqama
Because checking and managing your Iqama through Absher now depends on Nafath for login, getting Nafath working is effectively the gateway to your own residency services. Without it, you are pushed back to the account-free public inquiries.
If you want the fullest control over your Iqama — checking it, managing exit and re-entry visas, viewing documents — a working Nafath setup paired with a personal Absher account is the combination that gives it to you. See our Absher account guide.
Is your Iqama about to expire?
Find out exactly how much renewal costs and what steps to follow before the expiry date.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nafath mandatory?
For logging into Absher and many government services, Nafath verification is now the standard method, so in practice you need it for full access. The public inquiries remain available without it.
Can I use Nafath without Absher?
Nafath is the verification layer; you generally use it together with an Absher account for residency services. Setting up both gives you full personal access.
Nafath is not sending me anything
Nafath works by approval inside the app, not codes. Open the app when logging in and select the matching number rather than waiting for a message.
Can I check this for free?
Yes. Checking your status through the official government portals is free of charge. You only pay when you carry out a paid transaction such as a renewal.
Do I need an Absher account?
Not always. While Absher is the most complete option, several checks also work through the MOI and labor ministry portals without a personal Absher login.
What details do I need?
Usually your Iqama number is enough. Some portals also let you search using your passport number, border number, date of birth or other details.