Jeddah Consulate Announces New Online Appointment System for Pakistanis

News Desk
JEDDAH: In a major administrative overhaul aimed at streamlining consular services, the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah has introduced a mandatory online appointment system for citizens residing across the western region of Saudi Arabia.
According to the new directive issued by the diplomatic mission, traditional walk-in procedures for National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and Machine Readable Passport (MRP) services will be officially discontinued starting October 1, 2026.
Under the newly unveiled framework, all expatriates seeking identity documentation, passport renewals, or related consular assistance must secure a digital timeslot prior to visiting the consulate premises. Consulate officials stated that the policy shift is designed to eliminate overcrowding, significantly reduce waiting times, and ensure a more organized, efficient experience for the hundreds of thousands of overseas Pakistanis living in Jeddah and surrounding areas.
The transition to a fully digitized appointment mechanism reflects the government’s broader commitment to modernizing service delivery for the diaspora, who form the backbone of Pakistan’s economy through substantial remittances.
Community leaders have largely welcomed the initiative, noting that the prior system often resulted in long queues and administrative bottlenecks, particularly during peak holiday seasons and passport rush periods.
To facilitate a smooth transition before the October deadline, the consulate has launched an awareness campaign to educate community members on how to navigate the digital portal.
Technical support desks and helpline services are also being scaled up to assist elderly expatriates and those unfamiliar with online booking procedures, ensuring no citizen is disenfranchised by the technological upgrade.