Equivalency Certificate Process and Attestation in Abu Dhabi

Equivalency Certificate Attestation in Abu Dhabi – 2026 Complete Guide

If you completed your education outside the UAE and plan to work, study, or apply for professional licensing in the UAE, you may be required to obtain an Equivalency Certificate. In Abu Dhabi, this process involves attestation, verification, and official approval through UAE authorities.

This guide explains what equivalency attestation is, who needs it, required documents, steps, timelines, and common mistakes to avoid.

What Is an Equivalency Certificate in the UAE?

An Equivalency Certificate is an official confirmation that a foreign academic qualification is equal to a UAE-recognized degree or diploma.

It is usually issued after:

• Degree verification

• Document attestation

• Academic validation

The certificate is commonly required by:

• UAE government entities

• Free zones

• Professional licensing authorities

• Universities and regulatory bodies

Who Needs Equivalency Certificate Attestation in Abu Dhabi?

You may need equivalency if you are:

✔ Applying for government jobs

✔ Registering with professional councils

✔ Applying for teaching, engineering, medical, or technical roles

✔ Pursuing higher education in the UAE

✔ Upgrading visa or employment classification

Documents Required for Equivalency Certificate Attestation

Educational Documents

• Degree certificate

• Diploma certificate (if applicable)

• Academic transcripts / mark sheets

Personal Documents

• Passport copy

• Emirates ID copy

• UAE visa copy

Supporting Documents

• Offer letter or employment letter (if required)

• University details & mode of study information

Important: All foreign educational documents must be properly attested before applying for equivalency.

Step-by-Step Process for Equivalency Certificate Attestation in Abu Dhabi

Step 1: Attestation in Country of Origin

Your degree must first be attested by:

• Issuing authority

• Relevant education department

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the issuing country

Step 2: UAE Embassy Attestation

After home-country attestation, the degree is legalized by the UAE Embassy in that country.

Step 3: UAE MOFAIC Attestation

Once the document reaches the UAE, final attestation is done by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Step 4: Certified Arabic Translation

If your degree is not in Arabic, certified legal translation is mandatory.

Step 5: Equivalency Application Submission

After attestation and translation:

• Documents are submitted for equivalency evaluation

• Authorities verify academic level, duration, and institution recognition

How Long Does Equivalency Certificate Attestation Take? (2026)

⏱ Estimated Timelines

• Degree attestation: 7–20 working days (country dependent)

• Equivalency evaluation: 10–35 working days

Delays usually occur due to:

• Incomplete attestation

• Unrecognized institutions

• Missing transcripts

• Incorrect translations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Applying without full attestation

❌ Submitting unverified online degrees

❌ Using non-certified translators

❌ Incorrect university or study-mode details

❌ Expired passport or visa copies

Avoiding these mistakes saves weeks of delay.

Is Equivalency Required for All Jobs in Abu Dhabi?

No. Equivalency is not mandatory for every private-sector role.

However, it is often required for:

• Government & semi-government jobs

• Regulated professions

• Academic roles

• Certain visa classifications

Always confirm before applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for equivalency without MOFA attestation?

No. MOFAIC attestation is mandatory for foreign degrees.

Is equivalency required for diploma holders?

In some cases, yes—depending on employer or authority.

Can equivalency be done while on visit visa?

Usually no. A valid UAE residence visa is typically required.

Is online degree accepted for equivalency?

Only if the institution and study mode are officially recognized.

Equivalency Certificate Attestation Support in Abu Dhabi

Handling equivalency correctly requires proper sequencing, attestation accuracy, and verified translations. Professional support helps avoid rejection and saves time.

Abu Dhabi – UAE

Phone: +971 2 673 3099

Mobile: +971 52 884 6441

Email: info@abudhabiattestation.ae