Court judgments, arbitration awards, legal notices, and case filings need authenticated translation with MOJ certification. This includes documents for Court of First Instance, Court of Appeal, and Court of Cassation. DIFC and ADGM require common law terminology for translations for legal proceedings.
Legal Translation Dubai
MOJ Certified for Courts, DIFC & Government
When official documents need to be recognized and accepted in the UAE, authenticated translation makes the difference. Our certified translation services deliver MOJ-certified translations accepted by Dubai Courts, DIFC, ADGM, and all UAE government agencies. From court judgments to corporate documents—accurate and professional translations that officials accept without question.
Why Legal Translation Carries Weight
When you submit a translated document to a court, that Arabic version becomes the legally binding text judges interpret. When you file certified translations of corporate documents with a free zone authority, those Arabic words determine what your company is authorized to do. The difference between certified translation done properly and amateur work can change legal outcomes, void legal contracts, or create unintended liability.
Understanding Authenticated Translation
The Ministry of Justice licensing system ensures legal translation in Dubai requires verified competence. Our certified translators demonstrate proficiency in Arabic and the target language, understanding of legal terminology, and knowledge of formatting requirements. The official stamp and signature with QR code allow any government agency to verify translator qualifications—this authentication is what makes your translated document officially certified.
UAE Jurisdictions
Different jurisdictions have distinct requirements for certified translation services. Dubai Courts operate under UAE civil law and require Arabic for all documents issued locally. DIFC Courts and ADGM Courts operate under common law in English, but require authenticated translation for Arabic documents. Free zone authorities (DMCC, JAFZA, DAFZA) have their own standards for types of certified translation.
Types of Documents We Translate
Our translation services in Dubai handle the full spectrum of documents requiring certified translation: court judgments and arbitration awards, legal contracts and commercial agreements, corporate documents, and Powers of Attorney. We also provide certified translation for birth certificates, marriage certificates, diplomas, and visa documents. Each type of translation requires exact terminology and proper formatting.
Contracts NDAs, SPAs, Leases, MOUs Corporate MOA, POA, Resolutions Litigation Verdicts, Arbitration Wills & Estates DIFC Wills, Probate
Court-Ready Formatting
Dubai Courts expect specific layouts, header styles, and certification placement for official translation. DIFC submissions have different conventions. Attested documents from foreign embassies need the attestation and legalization chain preserved. We format every authenticated translation for its intended destination—ensuring your documents are recognized the first time.
High Stakes in Disputes
A confidentiality agreement where Arabic definition differs from English can leave trade secrets unprotected. Employment contracts with differing Arabic termination provisions can change labor dispute outcomes. A will with unclear Arabic designations can trigger inheritance litigation. Professional translation by certified translators prevents these costly errors.
Our Certified Translation Process
Document review confirms legibility and attestation status of your original document. Fixed quotes before work begins—no hidden fees. An MOJ-licensed professional translator handles the translation; a second translator reviews for accuracy, certifying the accuracy of the work. You receive digital delivery (immediate) and physical certified copies with stamp and signature (same-day courier in Dubai).
Turnaround for Translation Services in Dubai
Express service delivers authenticated translation within hours for court or visa deadlines. Standard service completes within 24 hours for most documents to be translated. Complex litigation packages with extensive exhibits may require 2-3 days. We confirm realistic timelines upfront so you can plan accordingly.
MOJ Certified Ministry of Justice approved translators
Court Accepted Dubai Courts, DIFC, ADGM compliant
60-Min Standard Digital draft delivery within the hour
Guaranteed Acceptance guaranteed or free revision
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- Ministry of Justice Licensed
- Dubai Courts Compliant
- DIFC & ADGM Certified
- MOFA Attestation Ready
Our Legal Translation Process
1
Document Assessment
Send your original document via WhatsApp. We verify legibility, attestation status, and scope within 15 minutes.
2
Authenticated Translation
Our certified translator handles every name, date, and clause—certifying the accuracy of each translated document.
3
Quality Review
A second professional translator reviews the work. Names match your passport and Emirates ID exactly.
4
Certification & Delivery
We apply the official stamp and signature with QR code. Your authenticated translation is delivered digitally.
Court-Ready Formatting
Formatted for Dubai Courts, DIFC, and ADGM. Documents are recognized and accepted without changes at filing.
Name Consistency Guarantee
Names on your translated document match your passport and Emirates ID exactly. Mismatches cause 40% of rejections.
Transparent Pricing
Fixed quotes before work begins. No hidden fees. The price we quote is what you pay for accurate and complete translation.
What Documents Require Legal Translation?
Trade licenses, MOA, board resolutions, and shareholder agreements need certified translation services. These corporate documents are required for submission to DED, DMCC, JAFZA, or other free zones. Banks also need translated documents for account opening and compliance.
Employment contracts (MOHRE), tenancy agreements (Ejari), SPAs (DLD), legal contracts, and NDAs all require official translation. Without authenticated translation, contracts may not be enforceable in the UAE. This type of translation ensures your important documents are legally recognized.
General and Special POAs must be translated for Dubai Courts Notary Public. The authenticated translation must show the exact scope of authority with stamp and signature. Errors in the translated document can void the POA entirely.
DIFC wills, probate documents, and inheritance certificates need specialized certified translation. Our professional translators understand both civil law (mainland) and common law (DIFC) frameworks for these important documents.
Understanding UAE Legal Translation
There are several types of certified translation in the UAE. MOJ-certified translation carries the translator's official stamp, signature, serial number, and QR code—this is authenticated translation at its highest level. Notarized translations add a notary attestation. Sworn translation involves a translator's oath. Government agencies scan the QR to verify authenticity of documents requiring legal weight.
Foreign documents usually need attestation before translation. The legalization chain includes: (1) Notarization in origin country, (2) Foreign Ministry authentication, (3) UAE Embassy attestation at the consulate, (4) MOFA attestation in UAE. For some destination countries, an apostille may substitute for embassy legalization. We check your documents before quoting to confirm required documents are complete.
Dubai Courts use Arabic and civil law for documents issued in the UAE. DIFC and ADGM use English and common law. Each jurisdiction needs different terminology—a Dubai Courts contract uses different terms than a DIFC contract. Our certified translators understand the legal nuances for each court system.
Police Clearance certificates: 3-6 months. Bank Statements: usually 30 days. Medical Certificates: 30-90 days. Visa documents may have tighter windows. We advise on timing so your authenticated translation and official documents stay valid for submission.
Common Scenarios
You need translated passport copies, company documents (MOA, trade licenses), and bank reference letters. Each translation company must provide certified translation services that match authority requirements. DMCC, JAFZA, and DAFZA each have specific formats for corporate documents—we ensure documents are recognized by each free zone.
DLD registration needs authenticated translation of SPAs, POAs (if buying remotely), and passport copies. For off-plan purchases, we capture payment schedules precisely in the translated document. Errors in official translation delay registration.
MOHRE complaints need certified translation of employment contracts, salary certificates, and termination letters. Visa applications require authenticated translation of diplomas, degree certificates, and documents issued in a different country. Professional translation ensures accurate and professional translations that officials accept.
Divorce, custody, and alimony cases need authenticated translation of marriage certificates, birth certificates, court orders, and financial documents. Personal Status Court has strict formatting rules for these vital records. We provide officially certified translations that courts accept.
Legal Translation in the UAE: What You Need to Know
The UAE has multiple court systems, each with different requirements for authenticated translation. Dubai mainland courts use Arabic for all documents issued in the UAE. DIFC and ADGM use English. Understanding which type of translation you need—and which court system applies—is essential before you start.
Key Insight
Legal terms carry precise meanings in certified translation. "Lease" is not just "rent"—it includes specific rights and duties under UAE law. Your professional translator must understand the legal nuances in both the original document and the target language.
Why Legal Translation Is Different
Legal translation requires more than language skills. A certified translator must understand the legal system in both languages to produce translations for legal proceedings that courts accept. Here's why this matters for your important documents:
- Legal terms carry precise meanings from case law and legislation
- The UAE uses both civil law and common law systems in different jurisdictions
- Power of Attorney terminology differs between Dubai Courts and DIFC
- Wrong terminology in a translated document can void your legal contracts
- Documents requiring official translation must be accurate and complete
Our certified translators work with both systems daily. They provide accurate and professional translations using the correct terms for each court and government agency.
How Courts View Your Documents
Courts and government agencies rank documents by their authentication level. Understanding the types of certified translation helps you meet requirements the first time:
Highest Weight
Full attestation chain + authenticated MOJ translation with stamp and signature
Medium Weight
MOJ certified translation without full attestation or legalization
May Be Rejected
Translation without MOJ certification or official authentication
For legal contracts and corporate documents, we advise on the minimum certification level needed. Sometimes MOJ translation is sufficient. For documents issued in a different country, you typically need full attestation and authentication services before translation.
What Affects the Price?
Our translation company in Dubai bases quotes on these factors for certified translation services:
- Complexity: An employment contract is faster than a medical licensing agreement requiring specialized terminology
- Document quality: Clear original documents are faster than faded copies
- Urgency: Rush visa or court deadline processing costs more
- Length: More pages means more work for accurate and complete translation
- Attestation status: We can advise on required documents and the authentication chain
No Hidden Fees
We provide a fixed price after seeing your original document. That quote includes the official stamp and signature on the translation, digital delivery, and court-ready formatting. Your translated document is ready for submission.
DIFC and ADGM: Common Law Translation Requirements
Dubai's financial free zones—DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) and Abu Dhabi's ADGM (Abu Dhabi Global Market)—operate under English common law. This creates specific translation requirements different from mainland Dubai Courts.
Why DIFC and ADGM Are Different
While Dubai Courts operate under UAE civil law with Arabic as the language of record, DIFC and ADGM Courts conduct proceedings in English and apply common law principles derived from English case law. This affects translation in two key ways:
- Arabic to English translation — Arabic documents (contracts, POAs, corporate documents) submitted to DIFC/ADGM Courts need certified translation into English
- Common law terminology — Legal concepts must be translated using common law terms, not civil law equivalents
- English to Arabic translation — DIFC/ADGM documents used in mainland Dubai Courts need certified Arabic translation
- Dual jurisdiction matters — Some cases involve both systems, requiring both language versions
DIFC Courts Translation Requirements
The DIFC Courts accept evidence in English. For Arabic documents, you need certified translation that:
- Uses common law terminology (e.g., "consideration" not "counterpart value")
- Maintains formatting conventions expected by common law judges
- Preserves legal effect when concepts don't have exact equivalents
- Includes translator certification acceptable to the Court
Common documents requiring DIFC translation include DIFC wills (the only wills covering non-Muslim assets in Dubai), commercial contracts under DIFC law, and employment disputes for DIFC-based companies.
DIFC Wills Translation
DIFC Wills Service is the only way non-Muslims can register wills covering Dubai assets. These English-language wills often need Arabic translation for property transfers through DLD or coordination with mainland executors. Our translators understand both systems.
ADGM Courts Translation
Abu Dhabi Global Market operates similarly to DIFC but under Abu Dhabi jurisdiction. Key differences include:
- ADGM has its own wills and probate registry (separate from DIFC)
- Commercial disputes follow ADGM Arbitration Centre procedures
- Some terminology differs from DIFC despite both using common law
- Coordination with Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) for enforcement
For cross-jurisdictional matters—such as enforcing an ADGM judgment in Dubai or using a DIFC will to transfer Abu Dhabi property—you may need translations for multiple authorities.
Common Law vs Civil Law: Translation Challenges
The fundamental difference between common law and civil law creates translation challenges that only experienced legal translators can navigate:
Trust Concepts
Common law "trusts" don't exist in UAE civil law. Translating trust documents requires explaining the concept, not just finding an Arabic word. A DIFC will creating a testamentary trust needs careful handling.
Contract Formation
Common law requires "consideration" for valid contracts. Civil law doesn't. When translating DIFC contracts to Arabic for mainland use, this concept needs proper treatment.
Precedent and Case Law
DIFC and ADGM follow binding precedent. References to case law in legal documents need translation that preserves the legal authority being cited.
Equity Principles
Common law equity concepts (injunctions, specific performance, constructive trusts) have no direct civil law equivalent. Our translators handle these with explanatory notes when needed.
When You Need Both Translations
Some situations require documents in both English (for DIFC/ADGM) and Arabic (for mainland authorities):
- Property purchases — DIFC company buying mainland property needs Arabic documents for DLD
- Employment matters — DIFC employer with MOHRE visa issues needs Arabic for labor authorities
- Enforcement — DIFC judgment enforced through Dubai Courts needs certified Arabic translation
- Banking — Some mainland banks need Arabic versions of DIFC corporate documents
We advise on which translations you actually need, preventing unnecessary costs while ensuring acceptance by all relevant authorities.
Legal Translation Services by Category
Select your document type for certified translation services in Dubai:
Contract Translation
Employment contracts, tenancy agreements, SPAs, NDAs, and legal contracts requiring official translation
Corporate Documents
MOA, board resolutions, trade licenses, shareholder agreements—certified translation for government agencies
Court Documents
Judgments, arbitration awards, legal notices, case filings—authenticated translation for litigation
Wills & Estates
DIFC wills, probate documents, inheritance certificates—professional translation for estate matters
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a translation officially certified in the UAE?
An authenticated translation in the UAE must be done by an MOJ-licensed certified translator. The completed work bears an official stamp and signature, serial number, and QR code. Government agencies scan the QR to verify authenticity. Without these elements certifying the accuracy, the translated document will be rejected by courts and ministries.
What is the difference between certified translation and legal translation?
Certified translation is a broader category—any translation with a translator's attestation of accuracy. Legal translation specifically refers to translations for legal proceedings, contracts, and court documents. In the UAE, both types of certified translation typically require MOJ authentication to be recognized and accepted by government agencies.
How long does authenticated translation take?
Standard documents (contracts, POAs, certificates) take 60 minutes to 24 hours for accurate and complete translation. Long court judgments may need 2-3 business days. We give exact timelines after assessing your original document. Express service is available for urgent visa or court deadlines.
Do you provide certified translation services for DIFC and ADGM?
Yes. These courts use English and common law. Our professional translators use the right terminology for wills, trusts, and commercial agreements. We understand the legal nuances between civil law and common law—providing accurate and professional translations for each jurisdiction.
Do documents need attestation before translation?
Usually yes for documents issued in a different country. The attestation chain (notary, foreign ministry, UAE embassy, MOFA) authenticates your original document before translation. We check attestation status first to confirm required documents are in order—this avoids paying for a certified translation you cannot use.
Can you translate documents from foreign embassies?
Yes. We regularly translate documents issued by foreign embassies and consulates in the UAE, as well as documents requiring embassy attestation from the destination country. Our certified translators handle the specialized terminology these official documents require.
What if my authenticated translation is rejected?
If rejection is our error, we fix it free and redeliver. We also cover courier costs. Our translation agency handles thousands of submissions monthly and knows exactly what each government authority requires for documents to be recognized.
Do I need to visit your office for certified translation services?
No. Send your original document via WhatsApp, approve the quote, pay online, and receive your authenticated translation digitally. We courier physical certified copies anywhere in the UAE. This professional service is designed for busy professionals who need translations for legal, corporate, or visa purposes.
Ready to Get Started?
Send your document via WhatsApp for a free assessment. We will confirm requirements and provide a quote within 15 minutes during working hours.
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