Buying or selling property in the UAE is not just about signing a contract and exchanging money—it’s a highly regulated process that requires legally translated and attested documents. For real estate transactions, the NOC (No Objection Certificate), SPA (Sale and Purchase Agreement), and Title Deed are critical documents. Whether you’re finalizing a deal in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, ensuring these documents are properly translated and attested is the key to avoiding delays, legal disputes, or even the cancellation of a sale.

This blog breaks down the translation and attestation requirements in both Emirates and explains how Al-Hamd Legal Translation supports investors, homeowners, and developers through this crucial process.

Why Translation & Attestation Matter in UAE Real Estate Deals

• Arabic is the official language of UAE courts and government bodies. Any document submitted must be legally translated into Arabic.

• Attestation confirms authenticity and ensures documents are accepted by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or Abu Dhabi Municipality.

• Proper documentation protects all parties involved—buyers, sellers, and developers.

Key takeaway: If your SPA, NOC, or Title Deed is not properly translated and attested, your property transfer may face rejection.

Core Documents in Real Estate Transactions

1. No Objection Certificate (NOC)

• Required from the developer before a property transfer.

• Confirms no outstanding payments or disputes.

• Must be translated into Arabic if originally issued in English.

2. Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA)

• The legally binding contract between buyer and seller.

• Translation is mandatory for registration at DLD or Abu Dhabi authorities.

• Attestation adds legal weight to the document for disputes or litigation.

3. Title Deed

• Official proof of property ownership.

• Must be in Arabic for legal recognition.

• Attestation ensures validity across government entities.

Translation & Attestation: Dubai vs Abu Dhabi

Here’s how requirements differ between the two Emirates:

Key takeaway: Both Emirates enforce strict Arabic translation standards, but Abu Dhabi generally requires an additional layer of municipal attestation.

Common Challenges for Expats & Investors

1. Uncertified translations rejected by authorities.

2. Delays due to missing MOFA or embassy attestations.

3. Incorrect formatting (e.g., stamp, pagination, or layout issues).

4. Misunderstanding between freehold vs leasehold rules in Dubai vs Abu Dhabi.

How Al-Hamd Legal Translation Simplifies the Process

At Al-Hamd, we provide:

• Certified Arabic translations accepted by DLD and Abu Dhabi Municipality.

• End-to-end attestation services, including MOFA and embassy legalization.

• Expert guidance for expats and investors, ensuring smooth registration.

• Fast turnaround with accuracy guarantees, saving you from costly delays.

Example: A European investor recently needed to register a property in Abu Dhabi. Their SPA was in English and rejected at submission. With Al-Hamd’s certified translation and attestation service, the process was completed within 3 working days—allowing the deal to close on time.

Final Thoughts

Real estate transactions in the UAE require precise compliance with translation and attestation rules. Whether you are transferring ownership in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, ensuring that your NOC, SPA, and Title Deed are translated and attested properly is not just a formality—it’s a legal necessity.

With Al-Hamd Legal Translation, you get a partner who understands the system, anticipates roadblocks, and delivers trusted legal translation services that protect your investment.

Partner with the experts. Explore Best Legal Translation in UAE for your next property transaction.