UAE free zone companies often need documents apostilled or legalised for international use. Here is the complete 2026 guide to UAE document apostille and legalisation.
In this guide:
What Is Apostille?
- Apostille: International certification of document authenticity; established by Hague Convention 1961
- Countries: 120+ countries recognize apostille; faster and cheaper than full legalisation
- UAE: UAE joined the Hague Apostille Convention in 2021; UAE apostille is now recognized in Hague member countries
UAE Document Apostille Process
- Documents issued in UAE: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFA) provides apostille
- Apply via: MOFA website (mofa.gov.ae) or UAE Pass
- Documents: Trade licence, MOA, power of attorney, educational certificates, court judgments
- Fee: AED 150-200 per document
- Timeline: 1-3 working days
Foreign Documents Used in UAE — Attestation
- Step 1: Local authentication in home country (notary or government department)
- Step 2: UAE Embassy/Consulate attestation in home country
- Step 3: UAE MOFA attestation in UAE
- Documents affected: Marriage certificates, birth certificates, educational certificates, company documents from abroad
Common Documents Needing Apostille for Free Zone Companies
- UAE trade licence: If presenting UAE company to foreign government or large corporation
- Power of attorney: If used in a Hague Convention country
- Certificate of Incorporation: For company registration abroad (subsidiary or branch)
- Good standing certificate: Proving company is active and in good standing