It is often required, when completing certain procedures, to submit a certified true copy of a certificate, document, or record—whether educational, commercial, real estate–related, or otherwise. This requires individuals and legal entities to follow specific procedures to certify a true copy of the requested document in accordance with applicable regulations.
A certified true copy may be used within the UAE or abroad, provided it is processed according to the legal requirements that render it valid and enforceable.
What Is a Certified True Copy in Dubai?
Certifying a true copy in Dubai is the process of officially attesting that a copy taken from an original document is a true and accurate reproduction of that original. This is typically required for official purposes to confirm that the document is genuine and has not been altered or forged.
One common example is a GCC Certificate of Conformity, which can be certified as a true copy through the following steps:
- Create an account or log in to the digital platform of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (moiat.gov.ae).
- Submit a request to certify a true copy of the GCC Certificate of Conformity.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the applicable fees.
- Receive a digitally certified true copy.
Document Attestation in Dubai
Certifying a DEWA Bill as a True Copy
A DEWA bill may be certified as a true copy by following these steps:
- Ensure you have the original electricity and water bill issued by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).
- Use digital platforms:
- The DubaiNow app: Log in, navigate to the bills category, select DEWA, and request a clearance certificate or certified copy (if available for download).
- The official DEWA website (dewa.gov.ae), which may provide access to clearance certificates or bill copies.
- If the document will be used outside the UAE:
- Make a copy of the original bill.
- Visit a licensed Notary Public in Dubai or an approved service provider with both the original and the copy.
- The notary will verify the original and stamp and sign the copy as a certified true copy.
- Pay the applicable service fees.
- Collect the certified true copy.
Types of Documents That Can Be Certified in the UAE
A wide range of documents may be certified as true copies, including:
- Personal Identification Documents: Emirates ID cards, family books, passports.
- Official and Government Documents: Birth, marriage, and death certificates; powers of attorney; official declarations.
- Commercial Documents and Contracts: Bank documents, tenancy contracts, company incorporation documents.
- Educational and Academic Documents: Transcripts, degrees, diplomas.
- Employment Documents: Employment contracts, experience certificates.
- Photographs: For official use.
- Other Documents: Utility bills, application forms.
Reasons for Certifying a True Copy
Certified true copies may be required for:
External Use
- Company licensing
- Marriage contracts
- Academic certificates
- International legal and commercial transactions
Internal Use (Within the UAE)
- Education: University admissions and academic procedures.
- Employment: Job applications requiring verified qualifications.
- Immigration and Residency: Visa and residency applications.
- Commercial Transactions: Company formation, branch registration, free zone procedures.
- Legal Matters: Submission to courts or dispute resolution.
- Personal Matters: Marriage, divorce, or civil status verification.
Authorized Authorities for Certifying True Copies
The competent authority depends on whether the document is intended for use inside or outside the UAE.
For Use Inside the UAE
- A licensed Notary Public in the UAE.
- A licensed UAE lawyer.
- The issuing government authority (such as the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Education, etc.).
For Use Outside the UAE
- Notary Public or issuing authority (as above).
- The UAE Ministry of Justice (where required).
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFAIC).
- The embassy or consulate of the destination country in the UAE.
- Apostille stamp for countries that are members of the Hague Convention.
Cost of Certifying a True Copy in Dubai
Fees depend on the type of document and the authority involved.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFAIC)
- Personal and educational documents: approximately AED 150 per document.
- Commercial documents: approximately AED 2,000 per document.
- Additional service or delivery fees may apply.
Notary Public in Dubai
- Copying fee: AED 5 per copy.
- General notarization (for documents issued outside the UAE): AED 300 per page.
Embassy Fees
- Vary depending on the country, document type, and additional services.
Factors Affecting Cost
- Type of document (personal or commercial).
- Place of issuance (inside or outside the UAE).
- Whether services are obtained directly from the ministry or through an authorized agent.
Procedure for Certifying a True Copy in Dubai
The lawyer, notary public, or authorized official will examine the original document and stamp and sign the copy with a statement confirming it is a true copy of the original.
Main Steps:
- Ensure the document is an original (a copy cannot be certified from another copy).
- Make a clear copy on plain white paper.
- Choose the appropriate authority:
- Lawyer or Notary Public: For personal documents (birth/marriage certificates, passports, tenancy contracts).
- Issuing authority: For company documents (trade license, commercial register).
- Submit both the original and the copy for verification (in some cases, online submission may be available).
- The authorized official verifies the original and stamps and signs the copy with an official certification statement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When do I need a certified true copy?
When using documents inside or outside the UAE for official purposes.
Is the original document required?
Yes. Certification can only be made from the original document.
Is a certified true copy valid inside and outside the UAE?
Yes, provided all required attestations are completed for international use.
What types of documents can be certified?
Personal, educational, governmental, commercial documents, contracts, bills, photographs, and more.
How long does the process take?
Typically from one day to several working days. Express or same-day services may be available, including electronic notary services.
Can expatriates and residents obtain certified true copies?
Yes, subject to completing any additional attestations required for international use.
What is the difference between certified true copy and consular legalization?
A certified true copy confirms conformity with the original locally, while consular legalization grants international recognition.
Is legal translation required?
Often yes, especially for submission to embassies, universities, or government authorities. The translation must be accurate and legally certified.
In conclusion, issuing a certified true copy in Dubai for local or international use is a straightforward process, provided the original document is available. Certification may be completed through the issuing authority, a licensed lawyer, or a Notary Public in the UAE, followed by additional attestations where necessary for international validity.