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How to obtain and use an e-signature card in the UAE

How to obtain and use an e-signature card in the UAE
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Anastasia Davidova
Co-Founder & CEO movingo
Editor
Author
Iakov Kukushkin
Copywriter, Journalist
Feb 13, 2026
Under UAE law, you can use an electronic signature for many transactions. However, not all e-signatures are equal. For more serious transactions such as signing employment contracts, notarizing documents, or real estate deals, you must use e-signature card. This card provides a higher level of security.

This article will explain what an e-signature card is used for, how to obtain one, and how much it costs.

What is an e-signature card in the UAE?

The e-signature card is a smart card issued primarily by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). It serves as an encrypted, hardware-backed identity, allowing you to authorize labor contracts, visa applications, and corporate transactions from your office, and other documents online.

This is where the e-signature card is used in the UAE

  • MOHRE transactions: Signing labor contracts, work permits, and establishment cards.
  • Court systems: Filing digital lawsuits or notarizing documents.
  • Banking: High-value corporate transfers and account openings.
  • Real estate: Signing Ejari or sales agreements via the Dubai REST app.
where the e-signature card is used in the UAE

Who can apply for an e-signature card in UAE?

  • Business owners

    Emiratis and expats

  • Authorized signatories

    Managers named on the Trade License or Power of Attorney (POA).

  • Public Relations Officers (PROs)

    Delegates authorized by the company.
Please note that the MOHRE card is only valid for companies registered on the Mainland and holding a DED license. Companies in Free Zones have their own electronic signature systems, as well as a universal system UAE PASS, which is a must-have in most cases

Anastasia Davydova
CEO at movingo

E-signature card number and where to find it

This is your unique ID, which is linked to your signatory status. You will need this number whenever you link your signature to a new company or renew your labor file. You can find it:
E-signature card number and where to find it
On the card:
Printed on the back or face of the smart card.

On the MOHRE app:
Found under "Card Details" in the app.

Digital signature vs. electronic signature: what’s the difference?

Most people use these terms interchangeably, but according to UAE law (Federal Decree-Law No. 46 of 2021), there's a difference:
💡 While electronic signature is a general term that refers to any electronic process that confirms the identity and intent to sign a document, digital signature is a specific type of encrypted electronic signature that has legal force.

Benefits of e-signature cards for businesses

The e-signature card is changing the way businesses in the UAE do things. It replaces all those slow, boring paper processes with instant, secure digital authorization. Companies no longer need to print and send documents by mail, which saves them a lot of time and money. The security is also much better than with traditional signatures — it's nearly impossible to fake an e-signature.

With the e-card, business owners can sign contracts and government documents 24/7, from anywhere, so there's no disruption to business hours or travel plans. That means no more waiting for things to get signed and approved. You can see the benefits of this through the experience of one of our clients.
“
One of our clients, a logistics company owner, received delivery documents for signature late in the evening. This was an urgent order that needed to arrive at the port the following morning, so the documents needed to be prepared in advance. The client did not have e-signature capabilities, so he had to wait until the next day to sign the documents and send them to the contractor. Due to this delay, the client could have been late loading at the port, but luckily, there was a delay at the port that day, so everything worked out in the end. If the client had e-signature card, he could have authorized the documents that evening and be sure they were in order the next morning.
Get your e-signature card

Establishment e-signature card

This is a slightly different type of e-signature card. While individuals have signature cards, the Establishment card identifies the company itself. An individual's e-signature card is required to apply for or renew the establishment card. The two cards work together.

Required documents for e-signature card application

  • Original Emirates ID

  • Passport copy for expats

  • Trade license copy (if for a business)

  • Passport-sized photo

  • Authorized signatory proof: Memorandum of Association (MoA) or Power of Attorney

  • Contact details: phone number, email address, and physical address.

How to get an e-signature card in Dubai: Step-by-step guide

  • Visit a service center: Go to a Tasheel or Tawjeeh center.
  • Submit request.
  • Biometric capture: You will need to provide a fingerprint scan.
  • Pay fees: Pay the application and card issuance fees (see below).
  • Wait for Issuance: The card is typically printed on the spot and handed to you, or sent via courier within 48 hours.
The shortcut
You can simplify this process by leaving it to professionals. Just contact us, and we will handle everything for you. All you need to do is pick up your card!
Get your e-signature card

The cost of e-signature cards in the UAE in 2026

Although prices may vary, you can use this range as a general guide:

  • Issuance fee: ~AED 200 – AED 250.

  • Personal file opening (if new): ~AED 80.

  • Service center charge: ~AED 50 – AED 100 depending on the center.

Renewal: Generally around AED 200 every 2 years.

How to activate your e-signature card

In the UAE, e-signature cards are typically activated automatically when they are issued. Most often, a service center representative (Tasheel, Amer, or Tawjeeh) will activate the card in the system right after linking your biometric information. You will then receive a card that is ready for use.

If your card isn't working or was issued in the past, but needs confirmation, here's what to do:
  • Service center: Visit your nearest branch of the service center with your original card and your Emirates ID..
  • Self-service kiosk: In some cases, it may be possible to activate or change your PIN code using a dedicated kiosk. Use your Emirates ID for verification.
If you have any problems with your e-signature card or any other questions about doing business in the UAE or related tax matters, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to assist you and will do our best to help you if necessary.
Get assistance

How to download an e-signature card in UAE

After you receive your physical card, you can also download a digital version (Digital Signatory Profile), which will be its equivalent.

  • Using MOHRE app

    Go to your profile — Electronic Authorization.

  • Using UAE PASS app

    Once you upgrade to a Verified Account at a kiosk, your digital signature certificate will be downloaded to the app.

Signature card for banking vs. e-signature card

Many banks issue cards with an electronic signature feature. This feature is slightly different from the one issued by the MOHRE and is used to confirm financial transactions.After you receive your physical card, you can also download a digital version (Digital Signatory Profile), which will be its equivalent.

How to protect your e-signature card

Please follow all safety rules when handling this card. Remember that if it falls into the wrong hands, serious problems could arise because the card allows you to sign official documents on your behalf.

  • #️⃣ PIN privacy

    Don't store your PIN in places that other people can access, like Google Docs.

  • 💳 Physical security

    Store it like your passport.

  • 🔐 Immediate revocation

    Report the lost card immediately to MOHRE to block the certificate.

  • ☝️ No sharing

    Never give your card to your PRO or anyone else to "take care of things" while you're on vacation. It's a legal nightmare waiting to happen.

What is a digital certificate?

Often, when we're talking about e-signatures, the topic of digital certificates comes up. Essentially, the digital certificate an electronic "passport" that proves your identity online. It links your identity to a public key, so when you sign a document, the recipient knows it's actually you and that the document hasn't been altered since you signed it.

Who issues digital certificates in the UAE?

It is issued by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). The TDRA licenses and monitors the entities that hand out the certificates:

  • UAE PASS

    The primary national digital identity.

  • Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)

    Via the Emirates ID chip.

  • Licensed Digital Service Provider Company (DSCP)

    Private and semi-government entities authorized by TDRA.

What is a Digital Certification Service Provider (DCSP)?

DCSP is a "trust service provider." They act as a middleman between the law and technology. They issue, manage, and revoke digital certificates. If you want a digital signature that will be accepted in a UAE court for a multimillion-dirham deal, it must come from a licensed DCSP.

How to obtain a DCSP permit

If your company wants to become a provider—which is rare for individuals but common for tech firms—you need:
  • TDRA approval: Submit an application to the TDRA.
  • Infrastructure: Prove you have the secure hardware (HSMs) to store keys.
  • Audit: Undergo a thorough security audit.
  • Fees: AED 5,000 for new application and AED 20,000 for one-year license.
You can obtain this permit and other certificates in just a few clicks. Just contact us, and we will handle it for you.
Get DCSP permit

Legal sanctions for non-compliance

It is important to take care when filling out documents in the UAE, including e-signatures. You are legally liable for whatever someone else signs if you let them use your card or PIN. If anything goes wrong, you could face serious fines:
Fines ranging from AED 100,000 to AED 1,000,000 and potential jail time.

Common mistakes and rejection reasons

  • Expired Emirates ID: Your e-signature is tied to your ID. If your ID expires, your signature will no longer be valid.

  • Not the "manager": Trying to obtain a card for someone who is not listed as an authorized signatory on a trade license can lead to serious problems.

  • Incorrect PIN: The card will be blocked after three incorrect PIN entries, so be sure to keep your PIN in a safe place (see above).

  • Fingerprint mismatch: If your biometrics weren't captured clearly at Tasheel.

Streamlining signatures with movingo

E-signature is just one part of the process that allows a business to operate smoothly. From obtaining visas for yourself and your team to handling all the corporate paperwork, licenses, and permits, it can be a huge hassle. You don't want to deal with it yourself because mistakes can be costly. It's best to hire professionals who can handle it all for you and take care of every detail.
movingo has helped over 400 businesses get started in the UAE. Whether you're a freelancer, small business owner, or corporate manager, we'll find a solution that works for you.
Talk with movingo

E-signature card FAQ

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