How to do Commercial Document Attestation in Abu Dhabi

When it comes to expanding your business in the UAE or dealing with international commercial transactions, commercial document attestation becomes a crucial stage. Whether you're setting up a new company, entering into contracts, or opening a branch office in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, the UAE authorities require verified commercial paperwork. This comprehensive 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about commercial document attestation in Abu Dhabi and across the Emirates.

What is Commercial Document Attestation?

Commercial document attestation is the legal process of validating business-related documents to ensure their authenticity and legality in the UAE. It is required for foreign documents to be recognized by UAE ministries, departments, and courts.

Some commonly attested commercial documents include:

• Memorandum of Association (MOA)

• Power of Attorney (POA)

• Board Resolutions

• Certificates of Incorporation

• Invoices and Commercial Agreements

• Shareholder Certificates

Whether you're applying for a trade license, engaging in cross-border trade, or setting up a legal entity, commercial document attestation in Abu Dhabi is non-negotiable.

Why is Commercial Document Attestation Important?

Here’s why attestation is a crucial step in doing business in the UAE:

• Legal Recognition: Documents must be attested and to be accepted by UAE authorities and institutions.

• Business Setup: Essential for company registration, license issuance, and opening of bank accounts.

• Court Matters: Attested documents are valid for use in arbitration or litigation.

• International Deals: Required for import/export, franchise agreements, and corporate partnerships.

Without proper commercial document attestation in Abu Dhabi, your applications can face rejection or significant delays.

Who Needs Commercial Document Attestation in UAE?

Attestation is not only for large corporations. It applies to a broad spectrum of business entities, including:

• Foreign companies setting up a branch or subsidiary in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.

• UAE-based entrepreneurs are entering into agreements with foreign firms.

• Companies involved in government tenders or joint ventures.

• Businesses need legal recognition of contracts signed abroad.

In short, anyone who presents foreign commercial documents to UAE authorities will require attestation.

Step-by-Step: Commercial Document Attestation Process

The process for commercial document attestation in Abu Dhabi and Dubai is systematic, but must be done with precision. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

1. Notarisation in the Country of Origin

The document must first be notarised by a public notary in the country where it was issued.

2. Authentication by the Foreign Affairs Ministry

Next, the document must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) or the relevant authority in the country of origin.

3. UAE Embassy Attestation

Once authenticated, the document will be attested by the UAE Embassy or Consulate in that country.

4. MOFA Attestation in the UAE

Upon arrival in the UAE, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Abu Dhabi or Dubai will carry out the final attestation.

Each step validates the document's authenticity, making it legally acceptable in UAE jurisdictions.

Documents Required for Commercial Document Attestation

For commercial document attestation in Abu Dhabi, you’ll need:

• The original commercial document

• A copy of your valid trade license or business registration

• A passport copy of the signatory (owner, director, etc.)

• Power of Attorney (if someone else is submitting on your behalf)

• Any earlier attestations (if already done)

Always check with your service provider or legal advisor to ensure you have everything in order before you start.

How Much Does Commercial Document Attestation Cost?

The commercial document attestation fees in Abu Dhabi and Dubai can vary depending on several factors:

• Type of Document:

  More complex legal documents may incur higher fees.

  
  

• Issuing Country:

  Some countries have more intricate attestation processes.

  
  

• Urgency:

  Express services are available for faster processing at higher rates.

On average, the cost for complete commercial document attestation ranges from AED 150 to AED 1000 per document, excluding any courier or translation charges.

What Sets Our Attestation Services Apart from Others in Abu Dhabi?

Dealing with embassies, government offices, and legal paperwork can be confusing and time-consuming—especially when you're busy running a business. That’s where Abu Dhabi’s Attestation helps.

Here’s why we're a trusted partner for commercial document attestation:

• End-to-End Service:

  We handle the whole process from notarisation to MOFA attestation.

  
  

• Zero Errors:

  We double-check every step to avoid delays or rejections.

  
  

• Fast Turnaround:

  We offer express service options.

  
  

• Free Pickup & Delivery:

  We collect and deliver your documents at your convenience.

  
  

• Trusted by Businesses Nationwide:

  From startups to large enterprises, we’ve helped thousands.

Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on what matters—your business growth.

Get All your Documents Right at the First Time

Commercial document attestation in Abu Dhabi is a critical aspect of doing business in the UAE. Failing to comply with attestation requirements can delay your expansion plans, affect contract enforceability, and even lead to legal complications. That’s why partnering with experienced professionals is the smart move.