"Electronic Signature": Gateway to Government and Banking Services

The Ministry of Justice and the Public Authority for Civil Information have called on citizens and residents to take the initiative to activate the approved electronic signature and take advantage of the government and banking services it enables, as part of cooperation among state entities to facilitate services for individuals.

In a joint statement, the Ministry and the Authority noted that “the electronic signature allows users to authenticate transactions and documents from electronic devices, without the need for paper signatures or personal presence, while enjoying the legal evidentiary status prescribed under applicable legislation.”

The statement added that “among the most prominent uses of the electronic signature is taking advantage of the Ministry of Justice’s electronic services, which will be rolled out progressively, including electronic notarization services, issuing and canceling powers of attorney electronically.” It further stated that “its uses also include establishing companies and institutions, completing licensing transactions with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, as well as signing certain banking transactions and contracts from anywhere.”

It clarified that “citizens can activate the electronic signature via the ‘Huwiyati’ app or self-service kiosks, while residents can activate it through self-service kiosks distributed at various locations across the country.” The two entities urged citizens and residents to take the initiative to activate the electronic signature, so that it is ready to easily and securely access current and future government and banking services.