What is MOFA?
MOFA — the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs — handles attestation of documents for use inside the UAE and abroad, along with diplomatic services and international document authentication.
Certificates, degrees and commercial documents usually need MOFA attestation to be legally recognised in the UAE, often alongside embassy or consulate steps.
Services
- Certificate attestation
- Marriage certificate attestation
- Degree and educational attestation
- Commercial document attestation
When do you need MOFA?
- You need a foreign degree or certificate recognised in the UAE.
- You are attesting a marriage or birth certificate.
- A commercial document must be authenticated for use abroad.
- An employer, university or authority asks for an attested document.
Frequently asked questions
How do I attest a certificate in the UAE?
Attestation usually follows a chain: issuing-country authorities and UAE embassy abroad, then MOFA attestation inside the UAE (with legal translation if required). The exact steps depend on the document and country of origin.
How long does MOFA attestation take?
MOFA attestation itself is often quick once prior steps are complete, but the full chain (origin country, embassy, translation) can take longer. Alwahaa can manage the whole process for you.
Do I also need embassy attestation?
Foreign-issued documents typically need attestation in the country of origin and by the UAE embassy there, before MOFA attestation in the UAE. Locally issued documents may need fewer steps.
Information is provided for general guidance and was last reviewed 2026-06. Official requirements, fees and processes are set by MOFA and may change — always confirm on the official website. Alwahaa Documents Clearing is a private service provider and is not affiliated with MOFA or any government authority.