Key takeaways
- Certification comes from the issuing body, a notary public or, for member companies, Dubai Chambers; we don't certify copies ourselves.
- The receiving office decides whether it accepts a copy at all.
- MOFA attestation normally needs the original or an official digital version, not a copy.
- Dubai Chambers lists AED 100 for its true copy service; DDA lists AED 100 per document plus small fees.
- A notary confirms the copy matches the original, not that the original is genuine.
Why true copies get refused
| Reason | Fix |
|---|---|
| Original laminated, damaged or stamps unreadable | Get a replacement or duplicate from the issuer |
| Pages or the reverse side not copied | Copy every page, including stamped backs |
| Name differs from the passport | Bring proof of the name change, or correct the document |
| No authorisation from the holder | A signed authorisation letter and ID copies |
| Original still needs attestation | Attest the original first, then certify the copy |
| Wrong certifying body | Ask the receiving office which certifier it accepts |
Who can certify a true copy in Dubai
There are two main routes. The issuer of the document is usually the strongest: the Dubai Development Authority, for example, issues attested true copies of documents it issued, such as commercial licenses and articles of association, for AED 100 per document plus AED 10 Knowledge Dirham and AED 10 Innovation Dirham per transaction. Dubai Chambers certifies true copies for member companies, listing AED 100, with AED 10 for each additional copy after the fifth.
The second route is a notary public: government notaries at the courts or private notaries on the official roll. DIFC Courts' notary service also offers an automated true-copy service and notarisation by video. A notary confirms that the copy matches the original in front of them, which is why some offices still prefer the issuer's certification.
When a copy won't work
Offices acting on the document itself usually want the original. MOFA, for example, attests the original or an official digital version, not a certified copy. Copies are commonly accepted as supporting documents and for file records. If the office hasn't said, ask before paying for certification.
A checklist before you certify
- Get the receiving office's written requirement.
- Check the original is attested, if it needs to be.
- Copy every page, front and back.
- Match names with the passport.
- Bring an authorisation letter if you're acting for someone else.
- Add a translation if the document isn't in Arabic or English and the office needs one.
We check acceptance first, then prepare the copies and requests. See true copy attestation and lawyer attestation vs notary.
Sources
- Dubai Development Authority: true copy attestation
- Dubai Chambers: true copy
- DIFC Courts: notary service
- Dubai Legislation Portal: Resolution No. 137 of 2022 on digital notary public services
- MOFA: attestation FAQs
Official sources checked on 7 November 2026. This guide explains published rules in plain English and is not legal or tax advice. Rules change; we check the current position for your case before you act.