Digital transformation applications in the new legal systems of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Electronic signature and electronic contracts (Comparative Study)

Abstract

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia launched Vision 2030 in 2016 as a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at enhancing the quality of life for citizens and residents and announced its main pillars (a vibrant society – a thriving economy – an ambitious nation), and the Kingdom has taken all necessary measures to keep pace with technological development.

Globally, digital transformation was one of the most prominent pillars in achieving this vision, and the effects of technological development extended to all sectors. The legal and judicial system was not immune to the applications of digital transformation, but it was the primary focus of attention. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia places great importance on modernizing laws and judicial systems, believing in the importance of achieving justice in society. Therefore, the legislative body, in cooperation with different ministries, focused on updating legal systems. New legislation was enacted, and judicial systems were modernized. The legislative system has made a tremendous leap in modernizing laws, including electronic signatures and the regulation of electronic contracts.,This study aimed to know the impact of digital transformation on legal systems, such as electronic signature and smart contract regulation, through studying and analyzing the legal texts regulating the two subjects of the study,  And to shed light on the recent provisions introduced by the Saudi legislator that are consistent with the expansion in the use of modern technology ، concluding individual transactions and dealings with public and governmental institutions, and in all procedures in general. Especially Egyptian law and French law, and a comparison between the legal organization and institutional organization in each of them to clarify the points of agreement and difference to benefit from the legal progress that the study may reveal in one of the other countries, or to recommend addressing the shortcomings or ambiguities in Saudi legislation - if any.