Suppose you’re living in Dubai or doing business here. In that case, chances are, at some point, you’ll need a notary public—whether it’s to get a document legalized, certify a power of attorney, or sign off on a business deal.
However, let’s be realistic—the world of notarization can be confusing, especially for expatriates or first-time users navigating legal documents in the UAE.
It is for this reason that we have compiled this extremely detailed (but informal and reader-friendly) guide to Notary Public Services in Dubai.
Whether you require personal notarization or corporate certification, this article will guide you through what notary services are, who offers them, the various forms they take, how to utilize these services, and what the fees and processes are like.
What Is a Notary Public?
A notary public is an officer who is commissioned to:
- Witness and attest signatures
- Stamp and seal official documents
- Administer oaths
- Seals authentic copies
- Authenticate agreements and contracts
In short, a notary public promises to verify that a document is authentic and that all parties signed willingly, voluntarily, and without duress.
In Dubai, notarization isn’t a process—it’s the law for virtually all documents, except for some court filings, government documents, and certain contracts.
Who Offers Notary Public Services in Dubai?
Notary public services are offered by the below in Dubai:
- Dubai Courts (Traditional Notary Public)
- Private Notary Services
- Online/Digital Notary Services
1. Dubai Courts Notary Public
It is a government-sanctioned, traditional choice. Dubai Courts have official notary offices in places. It’s well-suited for:
- Rental and property agreements
- Company documents
- Legal agreements
- Power of Attorney (POA)
Principal locations are:
- Dubai Courts (Al Garhoud)
- Al Barsha Notary Public
- Wafi Mall Notary Public Office
- Al Twar Centre
2. Private Notary Services
Authorized private law firms and legal consultants provide notarization of private documents, such as powers of attorney (POAs) and declarations. They’re faster, more convenient, and sometimes even available outside working hours.
Recommended for:
- Pre-drafted contracts
- An executive with a busy schedule
- Home and office visits (some even provide mobile notary)
3. Smart Notary Services (eNotary)
Dubai has gone full digital now! Most notarial procedures are now conducted online through:
- Dubai Courts Smart App
- Dubai Now App
- Dubai Notary Public Portal
These portals can be utilized to:
- Submit documents
- Authenticate yourself through video calls
- Get documents electronically notarized. All this with the strength of an internet connection!
Most Commonly Notarized Documents in Dubai
The following is a list of documents for which you might need to have them notarized in Dubai:
1. Personal Documents
- Power of Attorney (Specific or General)
- Affidavits and Declaration
- Passport and ID Original Copies
- Will or Testament (for ex-pats)
- Residency Proof Letters
- Parent Consent Letters for Travel
2. Documents of Business and Commerce
- MOA (Memorandum of Association)
- Board Resolutions
- Shareholder Agreements
- Commercial Contracts
- Partnership Declarations
- Signature Verification Certificates
3. For Overseas Use
- Overseas documents typically require notarization, followed by attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and, in some cases, attestation from the host nation’s embassy.
How to Access Notary Public Services Dubai?
If you are wanna know how to access Notary public services in Dubai, then all you need to do is keep on scrolling.
1. Visit a Notary Public Office
- Visit with your documents and Emirates ID or passport
- Sign in the presence of the notary
- Wait for the document to be stamped and attested
- Pay the charges
2. Schedule an Online Appointment
Private notaries and Dubai Courts typically offer online appointments for high-demand services, such as Power of Attorney (POA) certification.
Useful links:
3. Smart Notary Services
Download the Dubai Courts App or Dubai Now App, log in with your UAE Pass, and upload your docs for eNotarization. You might need to verify via video.
4. Mobile or Home Notary (Private Services)
Do you want someone to come to you? Some private companies now offer on-demand home visits from a notary to offices, homes, or even cafes—ideal for busy lifestyles.
Fee for Dubai Notary Public Services
Fees vary according to the type of document and whether the clients are utilizing a public or private service.
Provisional plan (revisable):
| Document Type | Government Notary Fees (AED) |
|---|---|
| Power of Attorney | 100–200 |
| Affidavit/Declaration | 100 |
| Memorandum of Association | 300–1000 |
| True Copy Certification | 50–100 per page |
| Will Notarization (for expats) | 950+ |
| Private/Mobile Notary | 500–2000+ (depends on provider) |
Note: Translation fees (for Arabic) are separate and required if your documents are in a language other than Arabic.
Language Requirements and Translation
Your notarized documents in Dubai should be in Arabic or include a legal Arabic translation that has been stamped with the signature of the UAE-approved translation agency.
If your documents are in English (or any other language), make sure to:
- Obtain yourself a certified legal translator
- Notarize both copies (original and Arabic)
Power of Attorney (POA): The Most Ordered Notarized Document
A Power of Attorney is a notarized, official document that authorizes someone to act on your behalf. It is one of the most highly demanded notarized documents in the UAE, particularly by:
- Property buyers and sellers
- Businessmen
- Parents giving guardianship
- Expats dealing with matters abroad
You can have various kinds of POAs:
- General POA: General legal power
- Special POA: Restricted to particular acts (e.g., selling a car, dealing with a bank account)
Pro Tip: Always clearly specify the powers granted. The notary will review this closely.
How COVID-19 Accelerated Digital Notary Services?
During the pandemic, Dubai Courts expanded remote notary services, allowing users to:
- Submit requests online
- Get documents notarized through video conferencing
- Receive digital copies with a QR code and digital seal
This is part of Dubai’s ongoing Smart Government initiative and is here to stay.
Notary Rules for an Easy Experience
- Bring original IDs (Emirates ID and passport) with you
- Verify document type before booking an appointment
- Translate documents in advance to Arabic if necessary
- Come early to government offices to avoid waiting
- Double-check fees to prevent shock
Notary Public Service in Dubai FAQs
If you still wanna know more about Notary Public Services in Dubai, then here are a few questions that others have already asked that might help you out as well.
Yes, UAE nationals and expatriates are both eligible for notary services.
Yes! Officially stamped and QR-coded digitally notarized documents are completely legitimate in the UAE.
Yes, but you may need additional MOFA attestation and embassy legalization, depending on the country’s destination.
If it is already notarized, you will need to redo it and have it re-notarized. Double-check at all times before submission.
Making Notary Public Services in Dubai Easy
Whatever the reason, to seal a property deal, to verify a POA, or to commence doing business, notary public services have to be done to render your documents legally binding in Dubai.
While perhaps a little clumsy and roundabout at first, the convenience of digital and private notaries has made the process quicker and easier than ever—whether through traditional methods or internet or mobile services.
Remember
- Select the correct type of notary
- Make your documents legible and complete
- Use the UAE’s smart services to save time
Struggling with a POA, affidavit, or any notarization process? Just leave a note—I can take you through it step-by-step or even assist you in making your document!
Tip Bonus: Save this page for your future notarization session. It will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
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