eSignature law in Saudi Arabia

Electronic signatures are legally binding in Saudi Arabia under the Electronic Transactions Law 2007, which gives certified electronic signatures the same effect as handwritten ones.

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Governing law: Electronic Transactions Law 2007 (Royal Decree No. M/18) (2007)

eSignature KSA: the short answer

Searched as eSignature KSA, electronic signature KSA, or "is an e-signature legal in KSA", the answer is the same: yes, for ordinary business documents, under Electronic Transactions Law 2007 (Royal Decree No. M/18). What varies is which documents are carved out and which tier of signature they need, and that is the part worth reading rather than the general rule.

Saudi Arabia's Electronic Transactions Law, issued by Royal Decree M/18 in 2007, gives electronic records, contracts and signatures legal recognition and provides that an electronic signature that meets the law's requirements has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature. The law establishes a certification framework supervised by the relevant national authority (the digital-government and communications regulators), under which licensed certification service providers issue certificates supporting higher-assurance signatures. Simple electronic signatures are recognised for ordinary transactions, while certified/qualified electronic signatures carry the strongest evidential weight and are used for government and high-value dealings. The Kingdom's Vision 2030 digital-transformation programme has driven wide adoption across the public and private sectors.

What makes an eSignature valid in Saudi Arabia

Where eSignatures are not valid

FAQ

Are electronic signatures legal in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. Under the Electronic Transactions Law 2007, electronic signatures are legally recognised, and a signature meeting the law's requirements has the same effect as a handwritten one.

Do I need a certified electronic signature in Saudi Arabia?

Not for ordinary private transactions, where a simple electronic signature is recognised. Certified signatures from a licensed provider carry the strongest evidential weight and are used for many government and high-value dealings.

Can I sign a business contract electronically in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. Commercial contracts are valid with electronic signatures under the Electronic Transactions Law, subject to exclusions such as personal-status matters.

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