In the UAE, sworn translation refers exclusively to the translation of official documents by a translator who is licensed and accredited by the UAE Ministry of Justice (MOJ) . Unlike regular translation, sworn translation carries legal weight. The translator’s official stamp and signature on the document serve as a legally binding guarantee that the Arabic translation is a true and accurate reflection of the original text.
This service is mandatory for any foreign-language document intended for use before UAE authorities. When a document undergoes sworn translation, it becomes legally admissible. This means it can be submitted to entities such as UAE Courts, Public Prosecution, Notary Public, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), and the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) .
Whether you need to translate a personal status certificate for family sponsorship, a commercial license for business setup, or a contract for legal proceedings in the UAE, a sworn translation by a Ministry of Justice-approved linguist is a non-negotiable requirement. At Alif Global, we ensure your documents are handled by officially licensed translators, guaranteeing full compliance and acceptance by all UAE government entities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who can perform sworn translation in the UAE?
A: Only translators who hold a valid license from the UAE Ministry of Justice (MOJ) are authorized to perform sworn translation. Their official stamp is proof of this accreditation.
Q: Is sworn translation required for visa and immigration processes?
A: Yes. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) across the UAE require all foreign-language documents (like marriage certificates and degree certificates) to be submitted with a sworn Arabic translation.
Q: Do all government departments in the UAE accept sworn translations?
A: Yes. Sworn translations by MOJ-licensed translators are accepted by all federal and local government bodies, including courts, notary publics, MOFA, and economic development departments.
Q: What is the difference between a sworn translation and a legal translation in the UAE?
A: In the UAE context, the terms are often used interchangeably. However, “sworn translation” specifically emphasizes the translator’s official oath and license from the Ministry of Justice, which is the highest standard for legal translation in the country.
Q: Does a sworn translation need to be attested further?
A: While the sworn translation itself is legally valid, it is often the first step. For many official processes, the translated document must then be submitted to the Notary Public or MOFA for further attestation.
