Moving to Dubai for work, business, or family reasons? One thing catches almost everyone off guard: the paperwork. Specifically, which documents need translation, and which ones require that extra step of legal attestation?
Having helped hundreds of expats and business owners navigate this process over the past decade, I can tell you that understanding these requirements upfront saves you weeks of frustration and unexpected costs. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about document translation and attestation in Dubai.
| In Dubai, documents requiring legal attestation include: educational certificates (degrees, diplomas, transcripts), personal documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, police clearances), and commercial documents (company registration, power of attorney, trade licenses). All foreign documents must first be translated by certified translation services, then attested through a specific chain: notary public, home country foreign affairs ministry, UAE Embassy, and finally MOFA UAE. |
What Is Document Attestation and Why Does Dubai Require It?
Document attestation is the official process of verifying that your documents are genuine. Think of it as a chain of trust. Each authority in the chain confirms that the previous stamp or signature is authentic.
Dubai requires attestation because the UAE does not automatically recognize foreign documents. Whether you’re applying for a residence visa, enrolling your child in school, or registering a business, UAE authorities need proof that your paperwork is legitimate.
The relationship between translation and attestation is important to understand. Your documents must be translated into Arabic by certified translation services before or during the attestation process. Some people make the mistake of getting documents translated after attestation, which can create problems.
Which Certificates Require Legal Attestation in Dubai?
Let me break this down into three main categories based on what I see most frequently.
Educational Certificates
- University degrees and diplomas
- High school certificates and transcripts
- Professional certifications (medical, engineering, teaching)
- Course completion certificates
- Academic transcripts
Real example: A software engineer from India needed his B.Tech degree attested for a Dubai employment visa. Without proper attestation and certified translation, his visa application was delayed by three weeks.
Personal Documents
- Birth certificates (required for dependent visas)
- Marriage certificates (for spouse visa sponsorship)
- Divorce decrees
- Death certificates
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical fitness certificates
Commercial and Business Documents
- Company registration certificates
- Articles of association
- Power of attorney
- Trade licenses
- Board resolutions
- Financial statements (for certain visa categories)
How Does the Attestation Process Work Step by Step?
The attestation process follows a specific sequence. Skipping steps or doing them out of order means starting over.
| Step | Authority | Purpose |
| 1 | Notary Public | Verifies document authenticity |
| 2 | State Authentication | State-level verification (varies by country) |
| 3 | Foreign Affairs Ministry | National-level authentication |
| 4 | UAE Embassy | UAE recognition of foreign authentication |
| 5 | MOFA UAE | Final UAE government verification |
Timeline: The entire process typically takes 2-4 weeks when done correctly. Rush services are available but cost significantly more.
Why Do You Need Certified Translation Services for Attestation?
Here’s where many people run into trouble. UAE authorities require Arabic translations of all foreign documents. But not just any translation will do.
Certified translation services provide translations that are legally recognized by UAE government entities. These translations come with a certification stamp and the translator’s credentials, confirming accuracy and completeness.
What Makes a Translation “Certified” in Dubai?
- Performed by a translator licensed by the UAE Ministry of Justice
- Includes official stamp and translator credentials
- Formatted to match original document layout
- Contains declaration of accuracy
Pro tip: Some certified translation services in Dubai offer attestation assistance as part of their package. This can save you significant time and hassle, especially if you’re not familiar with the local processes.
When Should You Get Your Documents Attested?
Timing matters more than most people realize. Here’s my practical advice based on common scenarios.
Before you leave your home country: Complete steps 1-4 of the attestation process. The UAE Embassy attestation must happen in your country of origin.
After arriving in Dubai: Complete the MOFA attestation and get your certified Arabic translation.
For employment visas: Start the process at least 6 weeks before your planned move date.
For business setup: Begin attestation of company documents 8-10 weeks in advance.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid?
After years of helping clients with document attestation, I’ve seen the same mistakes repeatedly.
- Using uncertified translators. Translations from non-licensed providers will be rejected by UAE authorities.
- Wrong attestation sequence. Skipping the home country steps means your UAE attestation won’t be accepted.
- Expired documents. Police clearance certificates typically expire after 3-6 months. Time your application accordingly.
- Poor document quality. Photocopies or damaged documents may be rejected. Always use original documents.
- Incomplete translations. Your certified translation must include every element of the original, including stamps and signatures.
How Much Do Certified Translation Services Cost in Dubai?
Costs vary based on document type, language pair, and urgency. Here’s a general pricing guide.
| Service | Standard | Urgent |
| Certificate Translation | AED 100-200 | AED 200-400 |
| Legal Document Translation | AED 150-300 | AED 300-600 |
| MOFA Attestation | AED 150-200 | AED 300-400 |
| Full Package (Translation + Attestation) | AED 500-800 | AED 1,000-1,500 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Document Translation and Attestation in Dubai
Can I translate my documents myself for UAE attestation?
No. UAE authorities only accept translations from certified translation services licensed by the Ministry of Justice. Self-translations, even if accurate, will be rejected during the attestation process.
How long does the complete attestation process take?
The standard timeline is 2-4 weeks for the full attestation chain. This includes home country authentication, UAE Embassy attestation, and MOFA verification. Certified translation typically adds 1-3 business days depending on document complexity.
Do all documents need Arabic translation for Dubai?
Yes, for official purposes. Any document submitted to UAE government entities, courts, or official bodies must have an Arabic translation from certified translation services. Some private sector employers may accept English documents, but government processes always require Arabic.
What happens if my attested document is rejected?
Rejections typically occur due to incorrect sequence, expired documents, or uncertified translations. You’ll need to restart the process with proper documentation. Working with experienced certified translation services from the start prevents most rejection scenarios.
Is there a difference between legal translation and certified translation?
In the UAE context, these terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to translations performed by Ministry of Justice licensed translators. The key requirement is that your translation carries official certification acceptable to UAE government entities.
Can I complete MOFA attestation online?
MOFA UAE has introduced electronic attestation services for some document types. However, you still need physical documents attested through the traditional chain first. Check the MOFA website or consult with your certified translation services provider for current requirements.
Do I need attestation for documents from countries in the Hague Convention?
The UAE joined the Hague Apostille Convention in 2023. For documents from other member countries, an apostille may replace some attestation steps. However, MOFA UAE verification and certified Arabic translation are still required. Requirements are evolving, so verify current procedures before proceeding.
Summary: Your Document Translation and Attestation Checklist
Getting your documents properly translated and attested for Dubai doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s what to remember:
- Identify which documents need attestation based on your specific purpose (employment, business, family)
- Complete home country attestation steps before arriving in Dubai
- Use only certified translation services licensed by UAE Ministry of Justice
- Follow the correct attestation sequence: Notary, State, Foreign Affairs, UAE Embassy, MOFA
- Allow 4-6 weeks minimum for the complete process
- Keep original documents safe and make certified copies
Planning your move to Dubai or setting up a business? Starting your document preparation early gives you peace of mind and prevents last-minute delays. Consider working with established certified translation services in Dubai who can guide you through both translation and attestation requirements efficiently.
Note: Attestation requirements and fees may change. Always verify current requirements with official UAE government sources or reputable service providers before beginning your document preparation.