Document Translation Requirements in the United Arab Emirates
Official bodies in the United Arab Emirates generally require a sworn translation of foreign-language documents, and many documents also need an apostille or legalization before they are translated. Below: who can translate, when an apostille is needed, and where the official rules are published.
United Arab Emirates requirements at a glance
| Translation standard | Sworn translation (Sworn/Licensed) |
|---|---|
| Who can translate | Translator licensed by the UAE Ministry of Justice |
| Apostille | Foreign documents generally require legalisation before translation |
| Accepted languages | Arabic (official language) |
| Responsible authority | Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation (MOFAIC) |
Where can I find a translator?
Who can translate documents for use in the United Arab Emirates?
What makes a translation official in the United Arab Emirates?
How does the United Arab Emirates treat documents from abroad?
Notes
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Emirati birth certificates, diplomas, and transcripts submitted to USCIS, universities, or credential evaluators need a certified English translation — that is exactly what we do, with a 100% USCIS acceptance guarantee.
Sending U.S. documents to the United Arab Emirates?
U.S.-issued documents usually need an apostille before they can be used in the United Arab Emirates — and the apostille should be obtained before the translation, so the certificate itself gets translated too. We offer e-apostille processing as an add-on to any order.
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United Arab Emirates translation requirements — FAQ
What type of translation does the United Arab Emirates require?
The United Arab Emirates follows the sworn translation standard for official documents. Translations should be completed by: translator licensed by the uae ministry of justice.
Is an apostille required for foreign documents in the United Arab Emirates?
Foreign documents generally require legalisation before translation
What languages do Emirati authorities accept?
Official authorities in United Arab Emirates accept documents in: Arabic (official language). Documents in any other language need a sworn translation before submission.
Can CertTranslate help with documents for the United Arab Emirates?
If you are submitting Emirati documents to U.S. authorities (USCIS, universities, credential evaluators), yes — our certified translations are accepted nationwide. For official use inside United Arab Emirates, authorities usually require a translator sworn or registered locally — use the official registry linked on this page. We can also advise on apostille requirements for U.S.-issued documents.
Requirements in related countries
Neighbors and countries with a similar translation standard.
Sources
- UAE Ministry of Justice – Licensed TranslatorsOfficial guidelines
Information verified against official sources. Last verified June 2026.
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