Attestation and legalisation

The process of having a foreign document recognised in the UAE: certified in the country of issue, legalised at the UAE embassy there, then attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Degree certificates, marriage certificates and corporate documents from abroad all require it.

Where it comes up

A foreign document has no standing in the UAE until it has been through the chain: certified in the country of issue, legalised at the UAE mission there, then attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

What it costs

Fees at each of the three stages plus legal translation into Arabic where required. It reliably costs more than people budget.

Who it applies to

Anyone needing a qualification-based licence, family sponsorship, or forming a company with a foreign corporate shareholder. Allow two to six weeks, longer for some jurisdictions.

How it actually goes

1. Notarise in the issuing countryA notary public certifies the document is genuine.
2. Apostille or legaliseSince the UAE joined the Hague Apostille Convention, documents from other member states carry an apostille from the issuing state's competent authority. Documents from non-member states still go through that country's foreign ministry and the UAE embassy there.
3. Attest at MOFAICThe UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs attests on arrival. Many authorities and banks still ask for this stamp even on apostilled documents.
4. TranslateLegal translation into Arabic by a translator sworn before the Ministry of Justice, where the receiving authority requires it.

Start attestation before you need it. Degree certificates for professional licences and powers of attorney for absent shareholders are the two that most often hold up an otherwise complete file, and neither can be accelerated from Dubai.

In short

• Three stages, in country of issue then in the UAE
• Takes weeks and costs more than most people budget
• Required for qualification-based licences and family sponsorship

Where this leads

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