UAE Moves to Digital Attestation for UK Documents – New Rules for 2025

Introduction

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently updated its document attestation requirements, transitioning to a digital system effective from February 24, 2025. These changes, introduced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in collaboration with the UAE Embassy in London, aim to improve efficiency, security, and compliance.

This change, replaces traditional ink stamps and with a digitally attested PDF document which can be verified online.

If you’re planning to use documents in the UAE—whether for business, employment, or legal purposes—understanding these changes is essential. This guide will break down the new Digital Attestation process, fees, processing times, and the types of documents accepted.

For those looking to navigate these changes smoothly, Westminster Legalisation Services offers expert assistance in legalising and attesting documents for the UAE.

Key Changes in UAE Document Attestation (Effective February 24, 2025)

1. Introduction of Digital Attestation

The UAE Embassy in London in collaboration with the UAE MoFA has now implemented a Digital Attestation system that replaces the traditional paper-based method of document authentication.

Here’s how it works:

1. Paper document is certified by a solicitor or notary public.
2. Paper document is Apostilled by the UK FCDO.
3. Apostilled document is submitted to the UAE Consulate in London
4. Document is attested digitally by the UAE Consulate in London and the UAE MoFA.
5. A digitally attested copy is available to download after successful authentication.
6. This attested copy is valid for use in the UAE and can be verified online at http://verify.mofa.gov.ae.

This update eliminates the need for physical document attestation, making the process faster and more accessible.

2. No More Bundling of Documents

There are some important rules to consider when submitting your documents for attestation. Under the Consulate rules:

𐄂 Bundling documents together is not accepted by the UAE Consulate.
✓ Each document must be certified and Apostilled separately.

Exception: A Certificate of Incorporation and a Certificate of Incorporation on Change of Name for the same company can still be bundled.

𐄂 Foreign documents is not accepted by the UAE Consulate.
✓ The documents must be certified and Apostilled in the country of origin.

Exception: Documents from Iceland, the British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies can be attested by the UAE Consulate in London after they have been Apostilled in the territory of origin. Certain types of foreign documents from other countries may be accepted by the UAE Consulate in London under special circumstances as outlined below in this article.

3. New Fees for UAE Attestation

The cost of attestation varies based on document type.
You can check the latest UAE Document Processing Fees here: Legalisation Requirement For the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

4. Updated Processing Time

The estimated time for attestation is 5-8 working days, but:

• Processing may take longer if additional verification is needed.
• Delays can occur during Ramadan and Eid holidays.

5. Acceptance of Foreign and UK Documents

Certain foreign documents may be accepted for UAE attestation, but strict conditions apply:

Documents must be:

• Attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country of origin.
• Attested by the relevant diplomatic body in the UK.
• Certified by a UK notary public.
• Apostilled by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
• Submitted to the UAE Consulate for final attestation.

6. Special Requirements for Different Document Types

✓ Companies House Documents (e.g., IN01 Forms) must be individually certified and legalised.
✓ Documents from British Overseas Territories must be Apostilled in the territory of origin before UK FCDO legalisation.
✓ Documents from Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey, Isle of Man) can be submitted directly to the UAE Consulate after being Apostilled locally.

How Westminster Legalisation Services Can Help

Navigating the UAE’s new digital attestation system can be complex, especially with the stricter requirements. Check our Complete United Ara Emirates Legalisation Guide. WLS offers expert support in:

✓ FCDO Apostille legalisation
✓ UAE Consulate & MoFA Consular Legalisation
✓ Ensuring compliance with UAE document legalisation rules
✓ Handling business, legal, and personal documents
✓ Fast, reliable processing in line with the latest UAE requirements

Located in London & Milton Keynes, we provide a hassle-free service, ensuring your documents are attested correctly and on time.

FAQs About UAE Document Attestation in 2025

1. What is the new UAE Digital Attestation process?

It is a paperless system where the UAE Consulate and MoFA digitally attest documents. Once approved, you receive a digital attestation copy via email, which can be verified online.

2. How long does UAE document attestation take?

The entire process takes 5-8 working days, but may vary based on verification requirements or workload at the UAE Consulate.

3. Can I bundle multiple documents for UAE attestation?

Each document must be attested separately, except for a Certificate of Incorporation and Certificate of Incorporation on Change of Name for the same company.

4. Can I get foreign documents attested for UAE use?

Only under strict conditions foreign documents may be accepted for legalisation by the UAE Consulate in the UK, such as prior authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the issuing country and subsequent UK notary and Apostille certification.

5. How can Westminster Legalisation Services help?

They provide professional document legalisation services, handling Apostille certification, UAE Consulate & MoFA attestation, and ensuring full compliance with UAE requirements.

Conclusion

The new UAE Digital Attestation process brings faster, more secure document authentication, but also stricter rules on document bundling and foreign document acceptance.

To ensure a smooth attestation process, it’s highly recommended to seek professional assistance from Westminster Legalisation Services. Our expert team will save you time, prevent mistakes, and ensure your documents meet the UAE legal requirements.

Do you need help with UAE document attestation? Contact Westminster Legalisation Services today!