To notarize a document in Dubai, you must identify the appropriate notary authority, prepare the final document, provide valid identification and supporting evidence, and complete the required verification and signing process. Depending on the document, notarization may be available online through Dubai Courts or through a licensed private notary.
The procedure differs for powers of attorney, commercial agreements, declarations, certified copies and documents issued outside the UAE. Some documents require notarization, while others require attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA). These are different legal procedures.
This guide explains how to notarize a document in Dubai, where to apply, what documents you need, the official fees, online options and how to avoid common application problems.
What Does It Mean to Notarize a Document in Dubai?
Notarization is the formal authentication or certification of a document, signature or legal act by an authorised notary public. Depending on the service, the notary may verify the signer’s identity, confirm their authority to act, record their consent, or certify a document or signature.
In Dubai, notarial services are governed by the emirate’s legislation, including Law No. 4 of 2013 concerning Notaries Public, as amended.
Notarization can help establish the formal authenticity and evidentiary status of a legal instrument. However, it does not automatically establish that every statement in the document is true or that every contractual provision is enforceable.
For example, notarizing a power of attorney confirms the relevant formal execution requirements. It does not mean the person receiving the authority may lawfully perform actions outside the scope of the document or applicable UAE law.
It is also important to distinguish three related services:
| Service | Main Purpose |
|---|---|
| Notarization | Formally authenticates or records a legal document, signature or notarial act |
| Legal translation | Produces an officially acceptable translation where required |
| MoFA attestation | Authenticates relevant signatures and seals for official or cross-border use |
A document may require more than one of these procedures, depending on where it was issued and where it will be used.
Where Can You Notarize a Document in Dubai?
Documents can be notarized through Dubai Courts’ public notary services, authorised private notaries and, for eligible instruments, other specialised notarial services.
The correct authority depends on the document’s purpose, language, parties and intended receiving institution.
Dubai Courts Public Notary
Dubai Courts provides public notary services for eligible legal instruments and transactions within its jurisdiction.
Applicants may access supported services through Dubai Courts’ digital channels or approved service locations.
Common transactions include powers of attorney, declarations, legal notices and the authentication of signatures on qualifying documents.
The authority reviews the submitted information and supporting evidence before completing the notarial act.
Licensed Private Notaries
A licensed private notary in Dubai is authorised to provide specific notarial services under the applicable regulatory framework.
Private notaries may assist with eligible personal and commercial documents, including powers of attorney, declarations and agreements.
Before choosing a provider, confirm that the notary is authorised to perform the requested service. A general typing centre or document-processing company is not automatically a licensed notary.
You should also request a breakdown distinguishing government fees from any additional professional, drafting or translation charges.
For assistance with the appropriate procedure, Al Ramsy Advocates provides private notary services in Dubai.
DIFC Courts Notary Service
DIFC Courts offers a separate notary service for qualifying documents, including certain English-language instruments.
Depending on the service, notarization may be completed in person or through an approved remote procedure.
The DIFC Courts Notary Service operates under its own regulations and fee schedule. Its documents and procedures should not be assumed to be interchangeable with those of Dubai Courts.
Before using this route, confirm that the organisation receiving the document will accept the relevant form of notarization.
When the Ministry of Justice Is Relevant
The UAE Ministry of Justice provides notarial services through the federal judicial framework.
However, Dubai has its own judicial and notarial system. The Ministry of Justice portal should not automatically be selected for a document that falls within Dubai Courts’ jurisdiction.
The appropriate route depends on the emirate, document type and competent authority.
When MoFA Is Relevant
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides document attestation rather than ordinary notarization.
MoFA attestation may be necessary when a foreign-issued document will be used in Dubai or when a UAE-issued document is intended for use abroad.
For example, a power of attorney executed outside the UAE may require notarization in the issuing country, authentication by the relevant foreign authorities, UAE consular legalisation and MoFA attestation before it can be used in Dubai.
The applicable sequence depends on the issuing country and the receiving authority.
How to Notarize a Document in Dubai Step by Step
The Dubai document notarization process generally involves preparing the instrument, selecting the correct authority, submitting identification and supporting evidence, completing verification, paying the applicable fees and receiving the notarized document.
Following the correct sequence helps avoid rejection and unnecessary repeat applications.
Step 1: Identify the Document and Its Intended Use
Before submitting an application, establish exactly what the document is intended to accomplish.
A power of attorney authorising someone to sell property may require different supporting evidence from a declaration confirming personal information or a corporate board resolution.
Confirm whether the document will be used in Dubai, elsewhere in the UAE or overseas.
Also identify whether the document is intended for a court, bank, government department, property authority, company registry or another institution. The receiving organisation may have specific wording or format requirements.
Step 2: Choose the Correct Authority
Select the notarial authority based on the type of document and the institution that will accept it.
For most ordinary Dubai mainland notarial transactions, the relevant route is Dubai Courts or a licensed private notary.
Certain English-language documents may qualify for DIFC Courts services, while foreign-issued documents may require an international authentication process.
Choosing the wrong authority can lead to an otherwise correctly prepared document being rejected by the receiving institution.
Step 3: Finalise the Document
The document should be complete and legally reviewed before submission.
Check that the names, identification numbers, company details, property references and other important information are accurate.
For a power of attorney, clearly define the authority being granted. A person authorised to manage property should not automatically receive the power to sell it, transfer ownership or collect sale proceeds unless those powers are intended.
Similarly, corporate documents should identify the company correctly and establish that the person signing has the necessary authority.
If the document creates significant financial or legal obligations, consider obtaining a professional contract review before notarization.
Step 4: Arrange Arabic or Bilingual Text
Many Dubai mainland notarial transactions require documents in Arabic or an acceptable bilingual format.
If the original document is in English or another language, an authorised legal translation may be necessary.
The translated version should accurately preserve the legal meaning of the original, including names, defined terms, obligations and financial amounts.
Where both Arabic and English appear in the document, check whether the receiving authority requires a particular language to prevail in the event of inconsistency.
Do not assume that an English-only document will be accepted by every Dubai notary or government authority.
Step 5: Gather Identification and Supporting Documents
Prepare valid identification for the parties who must sign or appear before the notary.
UAE residents commonly use an Emirates ID and may also need a passport.
For company documents, the authority may request the trade licence, constitutional documents and evidence confirming the signatory’s authority.
Additional documents depend on the transaction. For example, a property-related power of attorney may require the relevant title deed or property details.
The exact requirements should be confirmed before submission.
Step 6: Submit the Application
For eligible online transactions, access the relevant official service and complete the application.
The usual process involves selecting the notarial service, entering the parties’ information, uploading the document and supporting evidence, and submitting the application for review.
Use clear, complete copies of the required documents. Incorrect names, missing pages or expired corporate records can delay approval.
For in-person transactions, bring the original identification and any supporting documents requested by the notary.
Step 7: Complete Identity Verification and Signing
The notary must be satisfied that the relevant parties are properly identified and authorised to execute the document.
Depending on the service, verification may involve an in-person appointment, approved electronic identification, video communication or electronic signing.
The notary may also confirm that the person understands the document and is signing voluntarily.
If a representative signs on behalf of a company or another individual, evidence of their authority may be required.
Do not sign the document in advance unless the applicable notarial procedure permits it.
Step 8: Pay the Applicable Fees
Once the application has been reviewed, pay the official fee and any applicable additional charges.
The amount depends on the service, number of signatures, document value and other relevant factors.
Ask whether the quotation includes drafting, legal translation, private-notary professional charges or additional processing services.
Keep the payment receipt for your records.
Step 9: Receive and Verify the Notarized Document
The completed document may be issued electronically or provided in an approved physical format.
Before using it, verify that the parties’ names, document details and notarial certification are correct.
For electronic documents, retain the original issued file and its verification reference or QR code, where provided.
Finally, confirm whether the receiving institution requires any further attestation, registration or legal translation.
What Documents Are Required for Notarization in Dubai?
The documents required for notarization in Dubai typically include valid identification, the final document to be notarized and evidence supporting the signer’s legal authority or the transaction. Additional requirements depend on whether the applicant is an individual, non-resident or company.
Individuals and UAE Residents
Individuals commonly need a valid Emirates ID, passport details where requested, and the final document.
Supporting evidence may be necessary if the document concerns property ownership, a financial obligation, inheritance or another legally significant matter.
For example, a person granting authority over a property may need to provide details establishing the property and the relevant ownership interest.
Non-Residents
Non-residents may be able to notarize certain documents through an eligible remote procedure.
A valid passport, contact information and any required supporting documents will usually be relevant.
Where the document is signed outside the UAE, the applicant may need to use a foreign notary and complete the required legalisation and attestation process before the document is accepted in Dubai.
The availability of remote notarization should be confirmed with the competent authority.
Companies and Authorised Signatories
Companies may need to provide their current trade licence, memorandum or articles of association, and evidence identifying the authorised signatory.
A board resolution, shareholder resolution or existing power of attorney may be necessary where authority is not established by the company’s ordinary constitutional documents.
For foreign companies, the notary may also require legally authenticated incorporation documents and other evidence establishing the chain of authority.
Supporting Documents by Transaction Type
| Document Type | Common Supporting Evidence |
|---|---|
| Property power of attorney | Title deed, property details or related transaction documents |
| Corporate power of attorney | Trade licence, constitutional documents and authorised-signatory evidence |
| Vehicle power of attorney | Vehicle registration or ownership details |
| Litigation power of attorney | Relevant case or representation details |
| Debt acknowledgement | Debt amount, underlying transaction and payment terms |
| Corporate resolution | Company records and evidence of approval |
| Inheritance-related document | Relevant succession or heirship documentation |
These are examples rather than a universal checklist. The competent notary may require additional evidence.
Can You Notarize a Document Online in Dubai?
Yes. Dubai permits electronic notarization for eligible documents, allowing certain transactions to be completed without visiting a notary office. Online services may include digital identification, document submission, remote verification, electronic signing and issuance of an authenticated electronic document.
Dubai’s notarial legislation recognises the use of digital processes, including electronic signatures and remote identity verification.
To use an eligible online service, applicants generally need to:
- Access the relevant Dubai Courts digital service.
- Sign in using an accepted identification method.
- Select the required notarial transaction.
- Upload the document and supporting evidence.
- Complete the required identity and signing procedures.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Receive the completed electronic document.
Not every document is eligible for the same digital procedure.
When In-Person Attendance May Be Required
An in-person appointment may be necessary when remote identity verification is unavailable, original evidence must be examined, or the transaction requires additional checks.
The authority may also require physical attendance where there are concerns about legal capacity, consent, representation or the authenticity of supporting documents.
Applicants should confirm the permitted method before making travel arrangements or signing documents.
Out-of-Office or Mobile Attendance
Dubai’s notarial framework provides for attendance outside the notary’s ordinary workplace in certain circumstances.
This may be relevant to individuals who cannot attend because of health or mobility limitations.
Eligibility, scheduling, supporting evidence and additional fees depend on the applicable service and approval.
Mobile or out-of-office notarization should therefore be arranged with the competent authority rather than assumed to be available on demand.
How Much Does Notarization Cost in Dubai?
Notarization fees in Dubai depend on the type of document, number of signatures, transaction value and services required. Official Dubai notary fees are established by legislation, while drafting, translation and private professional services may create additional costs.
Dubai’s fee schedule was amended by Executive Council Resolution No. 72 of 2025. Selected official fees include:
| Notarial Service | Official Fee |
|---|---|
| General or special power of attorney | AED 100 per signature |
| Signature attestation on an instrument with unspecified value | AED 200 per signature |
| Signature attestation on an instrument valued at AED 100,000 or less | AED 300 per signature |
| Signature attestation on an instrument valued above AED 100,000 | 0.5% of instrument value, capped at AED 15,000 |
| Instrument date validation | AED 200 |
| Translator-signature attestation | AED 25 per original instrument page |
| Legal warning or notice | AED 200 |
| Notarization of a non-Muslim will under the relevant service | AED 2,000 |
| Certified true paper copy | AED 5 per page |
| Certificate based on notary records | AED 300 |
These are statutory fee categories, not an all-inclusive quotation for every transaction.
For example, the official fee for attesting a power of attorney signature is different from the total cost of preparing a complex corporate power of attorney involving legal drafting, translation and supporting corporate documents.
Applicants should check the applicable service category and confirm the current fee before payment.
Possible Additional Charges
The final cost may also include professional drafting or review, legal translation, service-centre processing, courier delivery and applicable taxes.
Foreign-issued documents may require separate embassy legalisation or MoFA attestation charges.
Private-notary professional fees should be distinguished from the statutory notarial fee so that applicants understand what they are paying for.
Documents Commonly Notarized in Dubai
Different legal instruments require different forms of preparation and authentication. The most common examples include powers of attorney, declarations, corporate documents, agreements, legal notices and certified copies.
Powers of Attorney (General & Special)
A power of attorney authorises another person to act on behalf of the person granting it.
A general power of attorney may cover several types of transactions, while a special power of attorney usually authorises specific actions.
Before notarization, the document should clearly identify the parties, the permitted powers, any restrictions and the intended duration.
Particular care is necessary when authorising property transfers, financial transactions, litigation settlements or delegation to another person.
Affidavits and Declarations
Affidavits and declarations record statements made by an individual or authorised representative.
Depending on the document and applicable procedure, the notary may verify the signer’s identity, administer an oath or affirmation, or authenticate the declaration.
The person signing remains responsible for the accuracy of the statements.
Notarization should not be understood as independent verification of every fact contained in the declaration.
Corporate Documents and Resolutions
Businesses may require notarization of board resolutions, shareholder resolutions, corporate powers of attorney and other legal instruments.
The notary may need to verify the company’s existence and the signer’s authority.
Some corporate filings fall within the jurisdiction of a company registrar, free-zone authority or another specialised institution rather than the ordinary notary.
Contracts and Debt Acknowledgements
Certain agreements and debt acknowledgements may require or benefit from notarization.
However, notarization does not replace proper contract drafting or legal review.
A debt acknowledgement should clearly identify the parties, amount owed, repayment obligations and any relevant conditions.
Before signing a commercially significant document, consider obtaining advice on its enforceability and the consequences of default.
Legal Notices
Certain legal warnings and notices may be notarized through the appropriate authority.
The notice should correctly identify the recipient, underlying legal relationship, relevant obligations and any applicable deadlines.
Notarizing a notice does not necessarily complete a separate legal requirement for service or delivery.
Certified True Copies
A certified true copy confirms that a copy corresponds to the original document presented for certification.
It does not establish that the original document’s contents are accurate or legally enforceable.
The receiving organisation may specify whether it accepts a notarized copy, requires the original or needs further authentication.
Non-Muslim Wills
Non-Muslim wills may be handled through different legal and registration frameworks in Dubai.
The appropriate route depends on the person’s circumstances, assets and applicable succession arrangements.
A will should be drafted and reviewed according to the intended legal framework rather than assuming that ordinary document notarization provides every required registration or succession protection.
How Foreign-Issued Documents Are Used in Dubai
Foreign-issued documents may need authentication in their country of origin, UAE consular legalisation and MoFA attestation before they can be accepted in Dubai. The required procedure depends on the issuing country, document type and receiving authority.
For example, a power of attorney signed abroad for use in a Dubai property transaction may need several separate stages.
A typical process involves:
- Notarization or certification by the competent authority in the issuing country.
- Authentication by that country’s relevant foreign-affairs authority.
- Legalisation by the UAE embassy or consulate, where required.
- MoFA attestation in the UAE.
- Certified Arabic legal translation, if required.
- Submission to the relevant Dubai authority.
Not every document follows exactly the same sequence. The competent authority should confirm the requirements before the applicant begins.
A foreign notarial seal alone may not be sufficient for a document intended for official use in Dubai.
Documents Issued in the UAE for Use Abroad
A document issued or notarized in the UAE may also need further authentication before it is accepted overseas.
Depending on the destination country, the process may involve certification by the relevant UAE authority, MoFA attestation, and additional embassy or consular legalisation.
Translation into the destination country’s required language may also be necessary.
MoFA provides digital attestation for certain eligible UAE-issued electronic documents, while other documents follow the applicable physical or courier-based procedure.
Always confirm the receiving country’s requirements before arranging translation or legalisation.
Common Reasons a Notary Application Is Rejected
A Dubai notarization application may be rejected or delayed if the document is incomplete, the applicant’s identity cannot be verified, the signatory lacks authority, or the transaction does not satisfy the competent notary’s requirements.
Common problems include:
- Inconsistent names or identification details.
- Missing pages, signatures or supporting documents.
- Expired company records or insufficient proof of corporate authority.
- Incorrect Arabic translation or conflicting bilingual wording.
- Missing foreign authentication or attestation.
- An instrument that falls outside the selected notary’s jurisdiction.
- An unclear scope of authority in a power of attorney.
- Incorrect transaction values or missing material terms.
- Concerns about legal capacity, consent or compliance with UAE law.
For example, a corporate power of attorney may be rejected if the person signing cannot demonstrate authority from the company.
Similarly, a foreign-issued document may be formally complete but unacceptable because it lacks the required authentication chain.
Reviewing the document and the receiving authority’s requirements before submission can help avoid these problems.
When Should a UAE Lawyer Review the Document?
A UAE lawyer should review a document before notarization when it creates substantial legal obligations, grants significant authority or may be difficult to amend or revoke. Notarial authentication confirms the relevant formal act; it does not replace an assessment of legal risks.
Legal review is particularly useful for documents that:
- Authorise another person to sell property or transfer shares.
- Permit the collection or transfer of substantial funds.
- Establish debts, guarantees or indemnities.
- Authorise litigation, settlement or waiver of rights.
- Bind a company through a representative.
- Affect inheritance, family assets or succession planning.
- Will be used across different legal jurisdictions.
A lawyer can help identify unclear powers, inconsistent clauses, missing protections and requirements imposed by the receiving institution.
Al Ramsy Advocates assists with the preparation and review of legal instruments and the selection of the appropriate notarial process.
For guidance on a power of attorney, declaration or corporate document, contact our private notary legal team in Dubai before submission.
Conclusion
Notarizing a document in Dubai begins with selecting the correct authority and preparing a legally suitable document. The applicant must then provide the required identification and supporting evidence, complete the applicable signing procedure and pay the relevant fees.
Online notarization can simplify eligible transactions, but foreign-issued documents, complex corporate instruments and certain specialised matters may require additional steps.
Checking the document’s intended use and the receiving authority’s requirements before submission is the most effective way to reduce avoidable delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Notary Cost in Dubai?
Dubai’s official notary fees depend on the service and transaction. Under the 2025 amended fee schedule, a general or special power of attorney costs AED 100 per attested signature, while certain other instruments attract fees based on the number of signatures or transaction value. Additional professional and translation costs may apply.
Are There Notaries in the UAE?
Yes. The UAE has public notaries, licensed private notaries and specialised notarial services. Dubai Courts supervises public and private notarial services within its jurisdiction, while other emirates and specialised jurisdictions may have different authorities.
Is Online Notarization Available in Dubai?
Yes. Eligible documents can be notarized electronically through approved services. Depending on the transaction, the process may involve online document submission, digital identity verification, remote communication, electronic signing and electronic issuance of the notarized document.
What ID Is Needed for a Dubai Notary?
UAE residents commonly need a valid Emirates ID and may also need a passport. Non-residents generally need a valid passport and any additional identification required by the relevant service. Company representatives must also provide evidence of their authority to sign.
Does My Document Need to Be in Arabic?
Many mainland Dubai notarial transactions require Arabic or an accepted bilingual format. Where necessary, a legally certified translation must be provided. Some specialised services, including certain DIFC Courts transactions, may accept English-language documents.
Can a Non-Resident Notarize a Power of Attorney?
Yes, depending on the available procedure and the receiving authority’s requirements. A non-resident may qualify for an approved remote service or execute the power of attorney abroad and complete the necessary authentication, UAE legalisation and attestation steps.
How Long Does Notarization Take?
Processing time depends on the document, authority and completeness of the application. Some straightforward electronic transactions may be completed relatively quickly, while applications involving legal translation, foreign authentication, additional verification or corrections can take longer. No single processing time applies to every notarial service.
Can I Use a Mobile Notary?
Out-of-office notarial attendance may be available in approved circumstances, including certain mobility or health-related situations. Applicants should confirm eligibility, supporting evidence, appointment availability and applicable additional fees with the competent notary.
.
