Notarization is one of the most important verification and validation procedures for any document in the UAE. Whether you are a business entrepreneur, an expat, or an ordinary resident, knowing how notarization works can save you time and effort by making your documents legally admissible. This article discusses five important aspects of notarization in the UAE, providing you with a clear and complete overview of the process.
1. What is Notarization and Why is it Important?
Notarization is the formal process by which an authorized or licensed official, a notary public, verifies the authenticity of a signature on a document and confirms the identity of the signatory. When a notary seals and signs a document, it serves to show that one has willingly signed the document bearing their name and that the copy presented is a true reflection of the original.
There are many other reasons that may justify the requirement. Notarization prevents fraud by identifying the persons who sign the documents. It creates a record of the existence of a particular document and its condition at a specific point in time. The most important thing it does is facilitate international business and other matters involving personal issues between jurisdictions.
2. Which Documents Need Notarization in the UAE?
Many documents used within the UAE frequently need to be notarized. Some of the most common include:
- Powers of Attorney: When you intend to grant someone legal authority to manage your finances, you are required to execute a notarized Power of Attorney—for instance, in running a property or acting on your behalf concerning financial issues.
- Educational Certificates: Very often, institutes of learning and other institutions require notarized copies of your graduation diploma or academic transcript as part of the application or employment process.
- Affidavits and Statutory Declarations: Sworn statements about the truth of a matter may have to be notarized for use in court proceedings or applications to various authorities.
- Business Documents: Agreements, incorporation documents of companies, and all other business-related agreements normally require Notarization.
- Wills and Trusts: Notarization of wills confirms that they are genuinely made and greatly minimizes the possibility of disputes in the future challenging their validity.
3. Where to Get Documents Notarized in the UAE
There are basically two ways to get your documents notarized in the UAE:
- Public Notary: Public notary services are normally provided by public agencies, like courts of law or the Ministry of Justice. It might be slightly more affordable than a private notary, but it may take a little longer to process.
- Private Notary: Most attorneys in the UAE does private notary. It may be quicker and more convenient but generally consists of a higher fee.
4. The Notarization Process in the UAE
While the Notarization steps may vary from one document to another and also depend on the notary chosen, generally, it goes like this:
- Prepare Documents: The documents should be complete and readable, as well as bear original signatures. Translation may be required for documents not in Arabic.
- Make an Appointment: Set up a meeting or appointment with a notary public of your choice.
- Before the Notary: Bring along the original document with valid identification and any required fees when you come in.
- Signing and Witnessing: You shall sign the document before the notary public, who will identify you and witness your signature.
- Notarization: Finally, the notary will attach his official seal and signature to the document with any required stamps and certificates.
5. Additional Considerations for Notarization in the UAE
Among others, the following are some of the key points to be considered:
- Fees: This will all depend on the kind of document to be notarized and its complexity, which varies from one chosen notary to another.
- Translation: Any document in a language other than Arabic may be required to be translated by a court-approved translator before being notarized.
- Apostille vs. Attestation: If the notarized document is to be used outside the UAE, one may be required to use an additional step called apostille or attestation, broadly confirming the authority of the notary and the authenticity of the document.
Note: Countries that are signatories to the Hague Apostille Convention—over 100 countries—generally require an apostille. This is a faster and easier process done by a competent authority in the country of origin.
In cases where the destination country is not a member of the Hague Convention—like the UAE—an attestation by the concerned embassy/consulate of the destination country may be required. Sometimes, it is lengthy and involves several stages with the local authorities.
Why Choose Notary Public Dubai for Your Notarization Needs?
- Experienced and Qualified Team: Our team consists of lawyers licensed by the government to offer notary services and handle documents in the best and most professional way possible.
- An Efficient Process: We are proud to ensure a clean, efficient process with very minimal confusion and delays, if at all.
- Ease of Process: The booking and scheduling of appointments are so easy.
- Most Affordable Rates: In terms of affordability, the rates that we have put in place for Notarization remain the most competitive.
- Multi-lingual Support: Staff is supporting the activities and can speak several languages to ensure clients are not misunderstood at any stage during the process.
The process of Notarization doesn’t have to be complex. Reach out to Notary Public Dubai today. We’ll take care of the rest and make sure your documents are attested and arranged for use in any part of the world.