What Translation Do I Need?

You have a document and need it translated for use in the UAE. But which translation type should you order? MOJ Legal Translation for courts and government? Certified Translation for HR and banks? Or Notarized Translation for international use? This guide walks you through the decision process step by step.

Understanding Translation Types in the UAE

The UAE recognizes three main translation types. Each serves a different purpose and is accepted by different authorities. The type you need depends entirely on where you plan to submit your document.

MOJ Legal Translation

• For: Courts, ministries, government entities, GDRFA visa applications, MOHRE work permits, official judicial proceedings
• Authority: Ministry of Justice-licensed sworn translator with judiciary-recognized seal

Certified Translation

• For: HR departments, private companies, banks, universities, insurance companies, internal records
• Authority: Professional translation agency with company stamp and translator declaration

Notarized Translation

• For: International use, foreign government requirements, embassy submissions, specific institutional requests
• Authority: Translation notarized by a notary public or embassy, often with MOFA attestation

Decision Flowchart: Which Translation Type Do I Need?

Where is this document going?

UAE Government / Court / Ministry → MOJ Legal Translation (Required)

• Dubai Courts, ADJD
• GDRFA visa applications
• MOHRE work permits
• DLD property transactions
• Ministry submissions

Private Company / Bank / HR Department → Does the recipient explicitly require “MOJ” or “sworn translator”?

• YES → MOJ Legal Translation
• NO → Certified Translation (Sufficient)

International / Foreign Government → Notarized Translation (Check requirements)

• Embassy submissions
• Foreign university applications
• International legal proceedings
• Country-specific requirements

Still uncertain? Send us the exact wording from your recipient’s checklist via WhatsApp at +971 50 862 0217. We will confirm which translation type you need at no charge.

MOJ Legal Translation: When and Why

MOJ Legal Translation is performed by a translator licensed by the UAE Ministry of Justice. These translators hold personal liability for accuracy and are authorized to affix the judiciary-recognized seal required by courts and government entities.

When is MOJ Translation Required?

• Dubai Courts: All litigation, probate, and judicial submissions
• Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD): Civil, family, and criminal cases
• GDRFA Immigration: All visa sponsorship documents, family visas, employment visas, Golden Visa applications
• MOHRE: Employment contracts for work permits, labor disputes
• DLD: Property transactions, rental contracts, title deeds
• RERA: Rental disputes and Ejari submissions
• Government Ministries: When explicitly requested for official matters
• Notary Public: Documents requiring notarization

Certified Translation: When It Is Sufficient

Certified Translation is performed by a professional translation agency. The document carries the agency’s letterhead, company stamp, and a translator’s declaration confirming accuracy.

When is Certified Translation Accepted?

• HR Departments: Employee onboarding, credential verification, internal records
• Banks: Account opening, loan applications, proof of income
• Private Companies: Employment contracts, vendor agreements, compliance files
• Universities: Admission applications, transcript evaluations
• Insurance Companies: Claims processing, medical records
• Private Hospitals: Patient records, medical history
• Free Zones: JAFZA, DMCC, DAFZA (English-language operations)

Common Document Translation Requirements

This table provides general guidance based on typical use cases. Requirements can vary. Always verify with the receiving entity before ordering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Getting MOJ When You Only Need Certified:* Ask your recipient if they specifically require “MOJ certification” or “sworn translator.” Most private entities accept Certified.
2. Getting Certified When You Need MOJ:* All UAE government entities, courts, and ministries require MOJ Legal Translation. Do not assume Certified is sufficient for any government use.
3. Not Checking With the Receiving Entity First:* Contact the entity where you plan to submit and ask explicitly which type they require.
4. Using Online Translation for Official Purposes:* UAE government and private entities do not accept uncertified translations.
5. Confusing Notarized with MOJ Translation:* Notarized translation is for international use. MOJ Legal Translation is for UAE government use. They are not interchangeable.
6. Ordering Translation Without Attestation:* Check if your document needs attestation in addition to translation. Attestation first, then translation.

Not sure which you need? Send us the recipient’s exact requirements via WhatsApp. We will confirm which translation type you need at no charge.