When it comes to legal matters, document verification, or attestation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a Public Notary plays a critical role. Whether you’re setting up a company, buying property, granting a power of attorney, or authenticating documents for international use, notary services are indispensable. In the UAE, notary services are tightly regulated to ensure authenticity, legality, and compliance with both local and international standards.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Public Notary system in the UAE, who needs notary services, what types of documents are typically notarized, and how you can avail of these services conveniently through professionals like those at Notary Public in Dubai.
What is a Public Notary?
A Public Notary is an officially authorized legal officer who has the power to witness, authenticate, and certify various legal documents and agreements. In the UAE, notaries act as impartial witnesses in the execution of important documents and ensure their legality and compliance with the law.
The main purpose of notarization is to deter fraud and ensure the authenticity of signatures and documents.
Types of Notary Services in the UAE
The UAE offers a range of notarial services, which fall under two main categories:
Judicial Notary Services (Public Notary)
These services are provided by notaries working directly under the Ministry of Justice or local courts. Judicial notaries are typically located in court buildings and government service centers.
Private Notary Services
Since 2017, the UAE has permitted licensed legal professionals to act as Private Notaries, especially in the emirate of Dubai. These notaries are lawyers or law firms authorized by the Dubai Government to provide notarial services, which often offer more flexible timings and personalized services.
Why You Might Need Notary Services in the UAE
Here are some common scenarios where notary services are required:
- Power of Attorney (POA) Preparation and Notarization
- Company formation documents
- Property purchase and sale agreements
- Affidavits and declarations
- Memorandum of Association (MOA)
- Board resolutions
- Attestation of signature
- NOC (No Objection Certificates)
- Marriage and divorce certificates
- Passport copies and ID verifications
- Wills and inheritance documents
- Educational certificate attestations
Notarization Process in the UAE
The notary process in the UAE includes the following steps:
Document Review and Drafting
Before any document is notarized, it must be reviewed for legal accuracy. This is especially important for legal instruments like POAs and contracts.
Translation (if needed)
All documents must be in Arabic or translated into Arabic by a certified legal translator. This step is mandatory, especially for documents intended for use by government authorities.
Signature in Presence of Notary
The person signing the document must appear in person before the notary and provide original identification (Emirates ID, passport, etc.).
Stamping and Certification
Once the notary verifies the identity and intent of the parties, they apply an official stamp and seal, certifying the document’s authenticity.
Who Can Access Notary Services in the UAE?
Notary services are available to:
- UAE nationals
- Residents with valid visas
- Business owners
- Tourists (in specific cases, like POA for overseas use)
International clients may also access UAE notarization through remote services or by appointing legal representatives.
Notary Services in Dubai: A Model of Convenience
Dubai has streamlined the notarization process significantly, offering a blend of governmental and private notarial services. One of the key advantages in Dubai is the availability of private notaries, which allows clients to bypass long queues and government bureaucracy.
Benefits of Using Public Notary in UAE:
- Faster processing times
- Flexible appointment scheduling
- Remote and online notarization options
- English/Arabic bilingual support
- Doorstep services (for VIP clients)
If you need help with any notarial process in Dubai, our team at Notary Public in Dubai is equipped to guide you through the process professionally and efficiently.
Remote Notarization: A New Era in UAE Legal Services
The UAE is embracing digital transformation. As part of its smart government initiative, Dubai Courts and other legal authorities have introduced remote notary services, especially during and post-COVID.
This allows individuals to:
- Sign documents digitally
- Appear via video conferencing
- Receive notarized documents via email or courier
However, remote services require the use of secure digital platforms and may still involve in-person ID verification.
Cost of Notary Services in UAE
Notarization fees vary depending on the document type and whether you use a public or private notary. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Document Type | Estimated Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Power of Attorney | 150 – 600 |
| Memorandum of Association | 1,000 – 2,000+ |
| Affidavits & Declarations | 100 – 500 |
| Signature Attestation | 50 – 200 |
| Remote Notary Fees | Additional 200–500 |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the document’s complexity and urgency. Contact Notary Public in Dubai for an accurate quote.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I notarize documents from abroad for use in the UAE?
Yes, you can notarize documents abroad, but they must be legalized and attested by the UAE Embassy in the issuing country and then by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Is a notarized document valid across all Emirates?
Yes, documents notarized in one Emirate are typically valid throughout the UAE, although some government departments may require additional attestations.
Can a company use a Power of Attorney in the UAE?
Absolutely. Companies often issue POAs to authorize employees, lawyers, or agents to act on their behalf for legal, financial, or administrative matters.
Do I need a lawyer to draft a POA?
It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended. A lawyer ensures the POA complies with UAE laws and serves its intended purpose without legal loopholes.
Why Choose Notary Public in Dubai?
We offer a full range of public and private notarial services tailored for individuals, businesses, and expats in Dubai and the UAE. Here’s why hundreds trust us:
- Experienced Legal Professionals
- Fast Turnaround Times
- Certified Legal Translations
- Doorstep and Remote Services
- 100% Compliance with UAE Laws
Whether you’re drafting a Power of Attorney, authenticating a business agreement, or notarizing an affidavit, we’re here to help.
Final Thoughts
Public Notary in UAE is a vital step for ensuring that documents are legally binding and recognized by courts and government authorities. Whether you’re an individual or a corporation, engaging with a reliable notary service provider like Notary Public in Dubai simplifies the process, saves you time, and protects your legal interests.
Reach out to our team today for expert assistance in navigating the UAE’s notarial system with ease and confidence.
