In a major move, the UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has activated the digital signature and verification feature in its UAE Pass for engineering project contracts.
According to the ministry, the move enables consultants and contractors to use UAE Pass to sign electronically on bids and contracts, while maintaining the highest level of information privacy and protection.
Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure stated, “The move aims to automate the services pertaining to engineering projects contracts. It reflects the keenness of the MoEI to keep pace with the digital transformation and leverage modern technology solutions to simplify its processes and improve the experience of its customers.” 
In early November 2021, the MoEI said it was building the UAE’s first 3D printed government facility and, in late June 2022, Dubai Municipality launched several technical activities around 3D printing technologies.
He added, “Digital transformation is a key enabler of shaping a better future that aligns with our leadership’s aspiration of making the UAE one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world.”
The new option for digital signature and verification is aligned with the UAE’s commitment to achieving a fully digital working environment. It will considerably speed up the contractual process, removing the need for physical delivery or travel, with the option for completely remote document approval and clearance. This will be particularly important for large, multi-stakeholder projects, where the need for traditional signature chains can be costly and time-consuming.
“At MoEI, we seek to adopt innovative tools and ways to improve our performance and offerings, in line with the Emirates Programme for Excellence in Government Services,” he concluded.
In late October 2022, the MoEI disclosed pre-qualification requirements for a PPP street-lighting project exclusively with Middle East Construction News (MECN).
