Covid-19 coronavirus: electronic signatures in the UAE

Thankfully the use of electronic signatures can offer parties flexibility and efficiency in executing documents.Electronic signatures are valid in the UAE, subject to certain conditions, and have been recognised since 2006. The use and admissibility of electronic records, documents and signatures in the UAE are governed by Federal Law No. 1 of 2006 concerning Electronic Transactions and Commerce (the E-Commerce Law).

This note looks at the essential requirements for using electronic signatures in the UAE and also considers a number of the practical questions which are likely to arise.