When dealing with international contracts, property sales, power of attorney, or academic certificates, you might face one big question: Can foreign language documents be notarized in the UAE?
The short answer is yes — but there are specific rules, translation requirements, and official procedures you must follow.
In this guide, we’ll explain the legal framework, share practical examples, and show you how Al-Hamd Legal Translation can help you navigate this process smoothly.
Understanding Notarization in the UAE
Notarization in the UAE is regulated by the Ministry of Justice and relevant emirate-level authorities. A notary public’s role is to verify the authenticity of documents and confirm the identity of signatories.
For foreign language documents, such as those written in French, Russian, Hindi, Tagalog, or Chinese, legal translation is a mandatory step before notarization.
Legal Requirement for Translating Foreign Language Documents
According to UAE law:
Any document in a language other than Arabic must be translated into Arabic by a certified legal translator.
This translation must carry the official stamp of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ).
Only after the translation is attached can the document be submitted for notarization.
Example:
If you have a Russian property sale agreement, it must first be translated into Arabic by a MOJ-licensed translator, then submitted for notarization.
Common Foreign Language Documents Requiring Notarization
| Document Type | Examples | Translation Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Power of Attorney | Authorizing property sales abroad | ✅ Yes |
| Academic Certificates | Degree attestation for UAE employment | ✅ Yes |
| Commercial Contracts | Supplier or distributor agreements | ✅ Yes |
| Court Documents | Foreign judgments or affidavits | ✅ Yes |
| Property Agreements | Sale or lease contracts in another language | ✅ Yes |
Step-by-Step: How to Notarize a Foreign Language Document in the UAE
Step 1: Translation by Certified Legal Translator
Choose a MOJ-approved legal translation office like Al-Hamd Legal Translation.
Ensure the translation is accurate and matches the original document exactly.
Step 2: Ministry of Justice Approval
The translation is stamped and certified by the MOJ to confirm its authenticity.
Step 3: Notarization
Submit both the original document and the certified translation to the notary public.
The notary verifies the translation and authenticates the document.
Real-Life Case Study
Client: European business owner in Abu Dhabi.
Document: Shareholders agreement in German.
Challenge: The document had to be legally recognized in the UAE for a business license renewal.
Solution by Al-Hamd Legal Translation:
Translated the 45-page agreement within 48 hours.
Obtained MOJ certification.
Coordinated with the notary office for same-day notarization.
Outcome: Business license renewed on time without penalties.
Common Questions Answered
Q1: Can I notarize my document without translation if the official speaks the language?
A: No. The law requires Arabic translation regardless of the notary’s language skills.
Q2: Is an English document exempt?
A: No. Even English documents must be translated into Arabic for notarization in the UAE.
Q3: Can I use Google Translate for my document?
A: Absolutely not. Only certified legal translations from MOJ-approved translators are accepted.
Why Choose Al-Hamd Legal Translation for This Service?
Licensed by UAE Ministry of Justice for official translations.
Expertise in over 120+ languages including rare dialects.
Fast turnaround for urgent notarization needs.
In-house document legalization & attestation assistance.
Key Takeaways
Yes, it’s legal to notarize foreign language documents in the UAE — but they must be translated into Arabic first.
Only MOJ-certified translations are accepted for notarization.
Al-Hamd Legal Translation offers a one-stop solution for translation and notarization needs.
📌 Need Expert Help?
Avoid delays and legal rejections — let Al-Hamd handle your translation and notarization professionally.