Legalization of UAE Documents for Use in a Foreign State
In today’s global economy, cross-border documentation is an integral part of both personal and corporate affairs. Whether you’re relocating for work, establishing a company overseas, or executing international contracts, the legalization of documents in Dubai and the broader UAE is a critical process. With over 190 countries worldwide and no uniform policy on document recognition, the UAE adheres to the traditional legalization route rather than the Apostille system. This makes the procedure more complex but ensures full legal validity abroad.
As per UAE legal practice, legalization of documents in UAE confirms the authenticity of a document’s origin and its signatures, thus making it legally acceptable in foreign jurisdictions. The process involves several steps and government authorities, but once completed, the legalized document can be confidently used abroad for a wide range of legal, business, or personal purposes.
Key UAE organisations involved in the legalisation process include:
Clue Distincts Between Apostille and Legalization
While both legalization and Apostille serve to validate documents for use abroad, the processes are distinct.
An Apostille is a simplified form of certification accepted among countries that are signatories to the 1961 Hague Convention. With an Apostille, no further authentication is required once the document is certified by the issuing country’s competent authority. Unfortunately, the UAE is not a member of the Hague Apostille Convention, which means documents issued in or for use in the UAE cannot be apostilled.
Instead, the UAE follows the legalization process, which is a multi-step authentication that includes notarization, certification by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), and finally attestation by the embassy of the destination country. This process is mandatory for both personal and corporate documentation meant for use outside the UAE.
So, while Apostille is a single-step shortcut for certain countries, legalisation of documents in UAE remains a more thorough and formalized process involving multiple authorities.
UAE Documents that Need Legalization
Personal Documents
- Certificates of birth and death
- Marriage and divorce certificates
- Academic diplomas and transcripts
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical reports and vaccination records
- Power of attorney documents for personal use
Business Documents
- Certificates of incorporation
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Board resolutions
- Powers of attorney for corporate transactions
- Tax residency certificates
- Audit reports
- Shareholder agreements
- Certificates of good standing
Commercial Documents
- Commercial invoices
- Packing lists
- Certificates of origin
- Free Sale Certificates
- Product registration certificates
Legalization through the UAE MOFAIC
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) plays a key role in the legalization of documents for use in the UAE. MOFAIC is responsible for confirming that documents have been properly notarized and certified by the relevant local authority, such as a notary public or a chamber of commerce.
Note: Once this is confirmed, MOFA affixes its official seal and signature, effectively confirming the authenticity of the document for use outside the country. The document is then ready for final attestation by the foreign embassy or consulate of the destination country. In many cases, this MOFA stamp is the longest and most critical part of the process.
Applicants can use the MOFAIC online portal to book appointments, pay fees, and track the status of their applications. However, many businesses prefer to work with professional legalization agents to avoid errors and ensure timely processing.
Process of UAE Documents Legalization
- 01
Legalization in the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Documents are legalized by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
- 02
Legalization in the General consulate of a country where the documents will be used. The turnaround time and exact cost depends on the type of documents, as well as the legalization procedures and fees of the consulate of a particular state.
Provided by Experts
With extensive experience handling over 1,500 complex legal and corporate processes, ITA Business Consultants combines in-depth knowledge of UAE regulations and international protocols to be your trusted partner in the legalization of documents issued in the UAE for use abroad.
We understand that document legalization is more than a simple formality — it is an essential step to ensure your documents are recognized and accepted by foreign authorities, allowing your business or personal matters to proceed seamlessly and without delay. That’s why we offer a comprehensive, customized legalization service, managing every stage—from document attestation and notarization to embassy legalization and certification by foreign consulates—with precision, confidentiality, and efficiency.
Begin your hassle-free document legalization process today. Fill out the form to connect with our specialists and discover how ITA Business Consultants delivers reliable, end-to-end solutions for all your cross-border documentation requirements with complete confidence.
Price of AED 4.775 (USD 1.300) is for legalization of private documents (cost per document; each document is legalized separately).