When you move to the UAE or need to validate your driving credentials for official use, attestation of your driving licence documents becomes mandatory. However, many applicants are often surprised to learn that the steps slightly differ between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, owing to each emirate’s administrative processes.
This guide, brought to you by Al-Hamd Legal Translation, breaks down the UAE-specific steps for attesting driving licence documents in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, making the process clear, fast, and hassle-free.
Why Driving Licence Attestation Matters in the UAE
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why attestation is necessary:
To validate your foreign driving licence for official recognition in UAE courts or traffic authorities.
To ensure documents are legally recognized by Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), RTA in Dubai, or Abu Dhabi’s traffic department.
To support legal processes such as car ownership, accident claims, rental agreements, and professional driving jobs.
To comply with immigration and residency laws where driving licence verification may be requested.
Key takeaway: Without attestation, your driving licence document may not be considered valid for legal, professional, or court-related purposes.
Step-by-Step Process: Driving Licence Document Attestation in Dubai vs. Abu Dhabi
Here’s a clear breakdown of the differences:
| Stage | Dubai (RTA Process) | Abu Dhabi (ITC / TAMM Process) |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1: Document Translation | Must be translated into Arabic by a sworn legal translator in Dubai (like Al-Hamd). | Same requirement: certified Arabic translation, approved in Abu Dhabi. |
| Step 2: Notary Attestation | Translation and original licence copy must be notarized at a Dubai Notary Public. | Attestation at Judicial Department notary offices in Abu Dhabi. |
| Step 3: MOFA Attestation | Submit notarized copies to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dubai branch. | Submit to MOFA in Abu Dhabi (Tamouh Tower). |
| Step 4: Traffic Authority Validation | Submit attested documents to Dubai RTA for validation and linking with your Emirates ID. | Submit attested licence documents at Abu Dhabi Police Traffic Department or TAMM portal. |
| Step 5: Final Legalization | Driving licence attested copy can now be used for legal, court, or professional driving purposes. | Same, legalized copy accepted across Abu Dhabi courts and government offices. |
Real-Life Example
A recent client at Al-Hamd Legal Translation needed urgent attestation of their French driving licence to apply for a delivery driver permit in Dubai. By following the Dubai-specific steps, including sworn translation and RTA validation, the process was completed within 48 hours.
In contrast, a similar client in Abu Dhabi required submission through TAMM, which took slightly longer (3 business days) due to additional traffic authority verification.
Lesson: Choosing the right legal translation and attestation partner makes all the difference in speed and accuracy.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Incorrect Translation: Many applicants face rejection because their licence isn’t translated by a sworn translator.
Solution: Always choose MOJ-approved translators like Al-Hamd.
Missing Notary Stamp: Without notarization, MOFA will not process your documents.
Solution: Ensure documents are properly stamped before MOFA submission.
Delay in Traffic Authority Approval: Especially in Abu Dhabi, where TAMM may request additional verification.
Solution: Work with professionals who track and follow up with government offices on your behalf.
How Al-Hamd Legal Translation Simplifies the Process
At Al-Hamd Legal Translation, we provide a one-stop solution for driving licence document attestation in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi:
Certified Arabic translation by sworn translators.
Notary public attestation arranged on your behalf.
MOFA stamping without delays.
Direct coordination with Dubai RTA or Abu Dhabi Traffic Authority/TAMM.
Express service available for urgent cases.
Client benefit: You save time, avoid government rejection, and get peace of mind knowing your documents are 100% valid.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use the same attested licence in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Yes, once the attestation is completed, it is recognized across all emirates.
Q2: How long does attestation usually take?
Typically 2–4 working days, depending on document completeness and emirate.
Q3: Do I need to be physically present?
Not always. With services like Al-Hamd, you can opt for pick-up and delivery support.
Final Takeaway
While both Dubai and Abu Dhabi require translation, notarization, and MOFA approval for driving licence attestation, the key difference lies in the final authority—Dubai RTA vs. Abu Dhabi TAMM.
By partnering with experts like Al-Hamd Legal Translation, you can navigate these requirements quickly and efficiently, ensuring your documents are legally valid, recognized, and ready for use.
For professional assistance, contact Al-Hamd Legal Translation today — your trusted partner for Best Legal Translation in Dubai.