Suppose you’re living or doing business in Dubai. In that case, understanding the legal translation requirements for UAE courts and government entities is essential. Whether you’re submitting a legal contract, a court document, or an official certificate, proper translation isn’t just an option—it’s mandatory.

This guide will explain everything you need to know to ensure your documents meet all legal standards in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

What is Legal Translation?

Legal translation refers to the process of translating documents that are used in a legal setting, such as:

Contracts
Agreements
Court decisions
Birth, marriage, and death certificates
Power of attorney documents
Immigration papers
Commercial licenses

Legal translation goes beyond word-for-word conversion—it requires accuracy, cultural nuance, and deep legal knowledge of both source and target legal systems.

Key Features of Legal Translation:

Accuracy – No errors in legal terms or meanings.
Certification – Must be stamped by a UAE-approved translator.
Notarization – Often requires attestation from authorities.
Adherence to UAE Laws – Must comply with local regulations.

Why is Certified Translation Required in the UAE?

The UAE government mandates certified translations to ensure:

Legal Compliance – Arabic is the official language for legal proceedings.
Prevention of Fraud – Certified translations reduce legal risks.
Smooth Processing – Ensures documents are accepted without delays.

For example, submitting an English marriage certificate to a Dubai court without an Arabic translation will be rejected.

Why is Legal Translation Important in the UAE?

The official language of the UAE is Arabic, and all documents submitted to UAE courts and government departments must be in Arabic.

Key Reasons:

Legal Validity: Documents in other languages are not accepted unless officially translated into Arabic.
Court Proceedings: All pleadings, evidence, and legal submissions must be in Arabic.
Government Communication: Ministries and federal entities operate primarily in Arabic.

Who Can Translate Legal Documents in the UAE?

Only MOJ-Certified Legal Translators Are Authorized

The UAE Ministry of Justice (MOJ) regulates legal translators. To be legally recognized, a translator must:

Be licensed and certified by the MOJ
Hold a valid stamp that proves their authority
Have a deep understanding of UAE legal terminology and procedures

Note: Using a non-certified translator can lead to document rejection or legal penalties.

Types of Documents That Require Legal Translations

Here are the most common documents that need certified Arabic translation for Dubai courts and government use:

A. Personal Documents

Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates
Divorce Decrees
Academic Degrees & Transcripts
Passports & Visas
Medical Reports

B. Business & Legal Documents

Company Contracts
Memorandum of Association (MOA)
Power of Attorney (POA)
Court Judgments
Patents & Trademarks

C. Government & Immigration Documents

Emirates ID Applications
Residency Visa Papers
Tenancy Contracts
Labor Contracts

UAE’s Official Language Requirements for Legal Documents

In the UAE, Arabic is the mandatory official language for all legal documents submitted to courts and government entities. This requirement ensures consistency, clarity, and legal validity across the country’s judicial and administrative systems.

A Ministry of Justice (MOJ) certified legal translator must translate all contracts, certificates, and legal submissions into Arabic. In some cases—especially for international contracts or agreements involving foreign parties—bilingual translations (Arabic alongside English or another language) are permitted, but the Arabic version always prefer in legal interpretation.

Key Requirements for Certified Legal Translations

Certified legal translations in the UAE must meet several strict requirements to be considered valid by courts and government entities.

First and foremost, accuracy and adherence to legal terminology are crucial—any misinterpretation can lead to legal consequences or document rejection.
The translation must be completed by a UAE Ministry of Justice-certified legal translator and include the translator’s affidavit and official seal, confirming the authenticity and accuracy of the translation.
Legalizing foreign documents by the relevant embassy or consulate may also be required, followed by attestation from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ensuring full compliance with UAE legal standards.

Approved Legal Translation Services in Dubai

Not all translation services are accepted by the UAE authorities. You must use:

A. UAE Ministry of Justice-Registered Translators

Only translators approved by the UAE Ministry of Justice (MOJ) can certify legal documents.
Their stamp and signature make the translation legally valid.

B. Certified Translation Companies

C. Online Legal Translations

Some government-approved agencies offer online submissions, such as:

Bayzat Business Services

Note: Online submissions can be acceptable only if done through government-approved or MOJ-licensed platforms. Many uncertified online services are not recognized.

Warning: Avoid uncertified freelancers—your documents may be rejected!

Where Can You Submit Translated Legal Documents in Dubai?

Legal translations are commonly required for submission to:

Dubai Courts
Dubai Police
Department of Economic Development (DED)
Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MOHRE)
General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
Dubai Land Department
Dubai Municipality
Free zones like Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), JAFZA, and DIFC

Steps to Get a Document Legally Translated in the UAE

Here are some steps:

Step 1: Choose a MOJ-Certified Translator

Ensure the UAE Ministry of Justice licenses the translator or translation office.

Step 2: Document Submission

Submit original or scanned documents to the translator.

Step 3: Certified Translation

The translator prepares an official Arabic version with a stamp, signature, and legal disclaimer.

Step 4: Attestation (If Required)

Some documents may require further attestation from:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
Dubai Courts Notary Public
Embassies/Consulates (for international documents)

Step 5: Submit to the Relevant Authority

Once fully translated and attested, your document is legally valid for submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using non-certified translators – Leads to document rejection.
Submitting translations without the MOJ stamp – Considered invalid.
Literal translations – Misinterpretation of legal terms.
Skipping document attestation – Especially for foreign documents.

Tips for Choosing the Right Legal Translator in Dubai

Check for MOJ certification
Look for experience in your document type
Ask for sample translations
Verify whether they handle attestation, too
Ensure confidentiality protocols are in place

FAQs on Legal Translations in Dubai

Here are some questions:

Q1. How much does legal translation cost in Dubai?

Prices vary: AED 50 – AED 200 per page, depending on complexity.

Q2. Can I translate documents myself?

No! Only certified translators are legally recognized.

Q3. How long does legal translation take?

24–72 hours for standard documents.

Q4. Are online legal translations accepted in Dubai?

Yes, if done by a government-approved provider.

Q5. What if my translation is rejected?

Re-translate with an MOJ-certified service and resubmit.

Final Thoughts

Legal translation in Dubai, UAE, is a highly regulated and critical process. Whether you’re dealing with court submissions, immigration paperwork, or business documentation, accuracy and certification are non-negotiable.

By following the legal translation requirements outlined above and working with MOJ-certified translators, you ensure that your documents are valid, accepted, and legally sound.

Pro Tip: Keep both original and translated copies—authorities may request them.

Need Legal Translation in Dubai?

Are you looking for a trusted, MOJ-certified legal translation company in Dubai? Click here to access a reputable translation provider specializing in legal documents to avoid delays and ensure compliance.