Are electronic signatures legal in Qatar? What are the main laws regulating electronic signatures?
Electronic signatures are legal in Qatar. Electronic signatures in Qatar are governed by the Electronic Commerce and Transactions Law (ECTL), promulgated in 2010. The primary objective of the ECTL is to provide for the authentication and legal validity of electronic signatures.
What is an electronic signature in Qatar?
According to the ECTL, an electronic signature is defined as "letters, numbers, symbols, or other content attached to a data message, which uniquely distinguishes the signatory from others, for the purpose of indicating the signatory’s approval of the data message."
What types of electronic signatures are recognised in Qatar? What are the respective requirements for each?
Qatar recognises two types of electronic signatures: Electronic Signatures and Advanced Electronic Signatures.
1.Electronic Signature
An electronic signature can be any symbol or process used to sign an electronic document.
The ECTL stipulates that an electronic signature shall have evidentiary value if the following conditions are met:
- The signature creation data is uniquely linked to the signatory.
- The signature creation data is under the sole control of the signatory.
- Any alteration made to the electronic signature after the time of signing is detectable.
- Any alteration made to the signed information after the time of signing is detectable.
Parties may mutually agree to use an identified type of electronic signature, provided that their agreement is legally valid.
Default eSginGlobal electronic signature can meet Qatar electronic signature requirements
2.Advanced Electronic Signature
An Advanced Electronic Signature is an electronic signature that is uniquely linked to the signatory, capable of identifying the signatory, and created using a Secure Signature Creation Device (SSCD).
Advanced Electronic Signatures are often based on standard electronic signatures utilizing Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) technology.
The law provides that certificates issued by entities accredited outside of Qatar shall have the same legal effect, provided they meet the level of reliability stipulated under Qatari law.
The signatures provided by eSginGlobal after integrating with the third party platform in Qatar can meet the requirements for digital signatures
In which situations may electronic signatures not be used in Qatar?
Electronic signatures may not be used for the following instruments or in the following scenarios:
- Documents relating to family matters and personal status.
- Documents establishing title to land and rights therein.
- Documents legally required to be authenticated by a notary public.
- Negotiable instruments, subject to the provisions stipulated in the Commercial Law.
★Disclaimer：
The Content of this page is for reference only. It aims to provide background information on the legal framework of the national electronic signature. Please note that the contents of this page do not constitute legal advice and should not be used or relied on as legal advice. For any legal questions concerning your use of electronic signatures in a particular jurisdiction, we recommend that you consult the relevant legal counsel.eSginGlobal Do not be liable for any express, implied or statutory representations or warranties of this page or the materials thereon, including, but not limited to, representations, guarantees or warranties of merchantability, applicability or accuracy for a particular use.