What is an eSignature?

An eSignature is used in electronic messages to identify the signatory (the sender of the message) and distinguish them from everyone else. An eSignature also proves that the message received is the same message that was sent by the signatory and that nothing has been added, deleted or amended. It may consist of letters, marks, symbols, numbers, sounds or images.

An eSignature is as binding as a signature executed by hand. Federal Decree by Law No. 46 of 2021 on Electronic Transactions and Trust Services (PDF, 4.4 MB, available in Arabic only) approves the use of eSignatures in the UAE. To create an eSignature, you need an electronic signature creation device, and a digital certificate to be authorised to use this device. Certification services providers issue digital certificates. These certificates confirm the identity of the signature device holder.

What is a digital certificate?

A digital certificate is a certificate issued by a certification service provider, which confirms the identity of the person or entity holding an electronic signature creation device. An electronic signature creation device is a uniquely configured device or electronic information that enables a person to apply his e-signature in the form of electronic keys and symbols.

What is a digital certification service provider (DCSP)?

A digital certification service provider is an accredited or authorised natural person or legal entity that issues digital certificates and offers digital signature-related services.

How to apply for a DCSP license?

You can apply for a DCSP license through Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). Obtaining a licence from TRA is required for all digital certificate service providers operating in the UAE with respect to eRecords, eDocuments and eSignatures related to eTransactions and/or eCommerce. To apply for a DCSP licence, you need to submit the following documents to TRA:

• your company’s memorandum and Articles of Association
• details of your company’s organisational and ownership structure
• the commercial licence authorising you to act as a DCSP
• a statement of your commercial activities
• details of the company's accounts and financial resources for the previous two years (or less if your company has been trading for less than two years)
• an insurance policy which shows you have sufficient cover for your activities as a DCSP.

Digital signature and timestamp service

Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) offers digital signature and timestamp service. The service enables entities and individuals to sign documents and transactions digitally using their ID card, with a timestamp on the signature that shows the date and exact time of the signature. The timestamp cannot be changed or altered even by the owner of the digital signature which gives undisputed accuracy of document and transaction creation and updates.

ICP Validation Gateway-VG

To simplify the usage of the Emirates ID card and its certificates, ICP set up a Validation Gateway (VG). VG enables governments, organisations as well as individuals to make use of the Emirates ID card in an online scenario. The VG is a service available online that offers a wide variety of digital functionality related to the Emirates ID card. After approval from ICP, users can connect to the VG and perform online services using the Emirates ID cards for authentication and signing.

Related eServices

• Renew your licence of certification service provider - TDRA
• Digital signing service - Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship - ICP