Witnessing a Signature in the UAE – Local vs. International Use

If you're signing an agreement, power of attorney, or declaration, having your signature legally witnessed is often required. But did you know the rules and authorities vary depending on whether the document is for use inside the UAE or abroad?

In this post, we’ll explain the difference between witnessing a signature for UAE use and for international purposes, and who is legally authorized to do it.

Signature Witnessing for Use Inside the UAE

If your document is intended for official use within the UAE (for example: government offices, courts or legal matter ), then your signature must be witnessed by a Notary Public.

Who Can Witness a Signature for UAE Use?

• UAE Notary Public Officials only(Usually available at Dubai Courts or other Emirates' judicial departments)

They verify your identity, witness your signature, and then issue an official Notary stamp and certificate that confirms the signature is legally valid within the UAE.

Signature Witnessing for International Use

If your document will be used outside the UAE — for embassies, foreign courts, international legal processes, or business setups abroad — then you’ll need your signature witnessed by a certified legal professional rather than a local notary.

Who Can Witness a Signature for International Use?

• Certified Legal Consultants or Lawyers in the UAE

• Commissioners for Oaths

These professionals are authorized to witness your signature and provide a legally valid statement confirming the authenticity and voluntary nature of your signing. This can then be used abroad,

Common Documents That Require Signature Witnessing:

• Power of Attorney (POA)

• Sponsorship or consent letters

• Business agreements and contracts

• Legal declarations or affidavits

• Property transfer forms

• Immigration paperwork

  
  

True Copy Attestation Can Help

At True Copy Attestation, we provide both types of signature witnessing services:

• For UAE use: We guide you to official Notary Public authorities

• For international use: Our certified lawyers and Commissioners for Oaths witness your signature legally and professionally

Whether you're dealing with personal, legal, or business documents — we make sure your paperwork is completed correctly and accepted by the relevant authorities.

Available in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, UAQ, and Fujairah

Call us at: +971 4 330 0011

WhatsApp: +971 54 582 0984

Final Tip

👉 Remember:

• UAE Notary = For local UAE use only

• Certified Lawyer / Commissioner for Oaths = For international documents

Always choose the right channel to avoid rejection of your documents.