How to Get a Document Attested in the UAE: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re applying for a job, starting a business, or sponsoring a family member, document attestation is a crucial step in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). At Shakespeare Legal Office, we guide individuals and companies through every stage of this process to ensure their documents are recognized and legally valid in the UAE.

What Is Document Attestation?

Document attestation is the process of verifying the authenticity of a document so it can be legally accepted in a foreign country. In the UAE, this is commonly required for:

  • Educational certificates
  • Marriage and birth certificates
  • Powers of attorney
  • Commercial documents (e.g., MoA, contracts)

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Document Attested in the UAE

1. Notarization in the Country of Origin

The first step is to get your document notarized by a public notary in the country where it was issued.

2. Attestation by the Foreign Ministry

Next, the notarized document must be legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (or equivalent authority) in the country of origin.

3. UAE Embassy Attestation

After that, the UAE Embassy or Consulate in your home country must attest the document.

4. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the UAE

Once the document arrives in the UAE, it must be submitted to MOFA UAE for final attestation. This confirms the validity of all prior authentications.

5. Translation (if necessary)

If the document is not in Arabic, it may need to be translated by a certified legal translator in the UAE before or after MOFA attestation.

Common Document Types Requiring Attestation

  • Educational Certificates (for work visas)
  • Birth and Marriage Certificates (for dependent visas)
  • Power of Attorney (for legal matters)
  • Commercial Agreements (for company setup or trade)

How Shakespeare Legal Office Can Help

At Shakespeare Legal Office, we simplify this complex process by:

  • Coordinating with notaries and embassies abroad
  • Managing translation and certification
  • Handling submissions to MOFA on your behalf
  • Ensuring compliance with UAE legal requirements

Our expert legal team is here to save you time, avoid delays, and ensure full legal compliance for both personal and business documentation.

Get in Touch

Need to get your documents attested in the UAE?
Contact us now via WhatsApp or phone to get started.