Many people in the UAE confuse “notarized documents” with “certified true copies,” assuming they are the same. In reality, they serve completely different legal purposes and are used in different situations. Understanding the difference is essential, especially when dealing with government departments, banks, courts, property transactions, or overseas embassies. A Notary Public Dubai handles both processes, but the nature, legal effect, and requirements for each are distinct.
Below is a complete 1500-word explanation of what notarization means, what certified true copies are, the differences between the two, and why professional guidance — often provided by Dubai lawyers — helps ensure accuracy and avoid delays.
Understanding the Basics: Two Different Legal Functions
Before going into the differences, it is important to understand the legal purpose of both processes.
Notarization
Notarization means that a Notary Public verifies:
The identity of the person signing the document
That the person is willingly signing
That the content has been acknowledged by the signer
That the signatures are genuine
That the document is legally acceptable
A notarized document becomes an official legal instrument and is often enforceable in courts.
Certified True Copy
A certified true copy is not about signing the document. Instead, it confirms that:
The copy you are submitting is a genuine copy of the original
The original document was examined and verified
This does not make the content legally binding — it only certifies that the copy is accurate and genuine.
When Is Notarization Required?
A document typically needs notarization when:
It establishes legal authority
It creates obligations
It transfers rights
It grants permission
It assigns power to another person
It documents an agreement
It creates or confirms ownership
Examples include:
Powers of Attorney
Business partnership agreements
Share transfer agreements
Board resolutions
Affidavits
Marriage-related declarations
Guardianship confirmations
Settlement agreements
In all these situations, a Notary Public Dubai validates the signatures and legal intent.
When Is a Certified True Copy Required?
Certified true copies are usually needed when you must provide proof of a document without giving the original.
These situations include:
Bank account opening
Visa applications
Loan applications
School admissions
Employment processes
Embassy submissions
Business licensing
Property transactions
Common documents requiring certified copies:
Passports
Emirates IDs
Utility bills
Academic certificates
Marriage certificates
Birth certificates
Corporate licenses
MOA copies
In these cases, the notary simply confirms that the copy matches the original.
Key Difference #1: Purpose
Notarized Document
Creates or confirms legal obligations.
Example:
A notarized Power of Attorney gives someone legal authority to act on your behalf.
Certified True Copy
Authenticates the accuracy of a document without altering its legal meaning.
Example:
A certified copy of your passport is used to verify your identity for official purposes.
Key Difference #2: Legal Consequence
Notarized Document
Has legal force.
It may be used in court as binding evidence.
Certified True Copy
Has no independent legal force.
It is only a mirror of the original.
Key Difference #3: Who Must Be Present
Notarization
The person signing must be physically present or join remotely (for online notarization).
Identification is mandatory.
Certified True Copy
No need for the document holder to sign anything.
You only present the original document and the copy.
Key Difference #4: Verification Level
Notarization
The notary verifies:
Identity
Signature
Intent
Voluntary action
Certified True Copy
The notary verifies:
The copy matches the original
The original is genuine
That’s it — no verification of content or intent.
Key Difference #5: Use in International Processes
Many embassies require notarized documents for legal matters such as:
Marriage abroad
Overseas property sales
Litigation
Private contracts
Certified true copies are commonly used for:
Passport verification
Birth certificate verification
Identity confirmation
Education-related submissions
Some countries require both notarization and later attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Key Difference #6: Document Preparation Requirements
Notarization
You must prepare:
A legally drafted document
Arabic or bilingual text
Proper identification
Supporting attachments
Any errors can cause rejection.
This is why many people work with Dubai lawyers, who ensure that the language, formatting, and legal requirements are accurate.
Certified True Copy
The process is simple:
Bring the original
Bring a photocopy
The notary compares and certifies
Minimal preparation is required.
Why People Often Confuse the Two
In many countries, certification and notarization are done by different professionals. But in Dubai, a Notary Public Dubai handles both. Because they are both official stamps, many assume they serve the same purpose — but the legal impact is completely different.
Examples to Clearly Show the Difference
Below are real-life examples to help you understand the difference in a simple, practical way.
Example 1: Selling Property Abroad
If you are selling property overseas, the foreign country may require:
A notarized Power of Attorney
A notarized sale authorization
Why?
Because the document gives legal power to another person to sign on your behalf.
A certified copy of your passport alone is not enough.
Example 2: Opening a Bank Account in Dubai
Banks often require:
Certified true copy of Emirates ID
Certified true copy of passport
Why?
They only need verification of identity — no new legal rights are created.
Example 3: Applying for a Student Visa Abroad
The foreign embassy may ask for:
Certified copy of birth certificate
Notarized parental consent letter
The consent requires notarization because it gives legal permission.
The birth certificate only needs certification.
Example 4: Starting a Company
The following may require notarization:
MOA signing
Corporate resolutions
Share transfer agreements
The following may require certified copies:
Trade license
Past MOA
Passport copies
Fee receipts
Why Notarized Documents Require Careful Drafting
Poorly drafted documents can be rejected. A notary cannot fix legal mistakes — they only verify signatures.
A document may be rejected if it contains:
Ambiguous wording
Missing sections
Incorrect translations
Wrong names (must match passport)
Unclear powers
Non-compliant formatting
This is where Dubai lawyers play a critical role. They:
Draft documents properly
Ensure compliance with Dubai Courts rules
Prepare bilingual versions
Attach required documents
Guide clients through notary procedures
For high-value or sensitive documents, legal assistance is essential.
Why Certified True Copies Are Simpler but Important
Though simple, certified true copies ensure:
Banks trust your identity
Government departments accept your documents
Employers process your file
Embassies verify your application
Without certification, documents may be rejected due to concerns over authenticity.
The Process for Notarization in Dubai
Steps:
Draft document correctly
Provide Arabic or bilingual version
Bring identification
Sign in front of the notary
Pay fees
Receive stamped document
Remote notarization is also available through digital platforms.
The Process for Certified True Copies
Steps:
Bring the original
Bring a photocopy
Notary compares both
Notary stamps and certifies
Pay small fee
Receive certified copy
There is no signing required.
Costs: Notarization vs Certification
Notarization fees are generally higher because:
It involves legal authority
Requires identity verification
Carries legal liability
Certified true copies cost much less because the process is quicker and simpler.
International Use of Notarized and Certified Copies
Many countries require:
Notarization
Attestation by MOFA
Embassy legalization
For example:
Canada
UK
India
Philippines
European nations
Notarization is usually required before international attestation.
Final Thoughts
The difference between a notarized document and a certified true copy in the UAE is significant. A Notary Public Dubai can provide both services, but they serve very different legal purposes. Notarized documents create or confirm legal authority, while certified true copies merely confirm the authenticity of original documents.
In matters involving property, business, financial commitments, guardianship, and legal agreements, notarization is essential. For identity verification, bank processes, visa applications, or routine documentation, certified true copies are typically required.
Understanding this distinction helps avoid complications, delays, and rejected applications. With the guidance of experienced Dubai lawyers, individuals and businesses can ensure that the correct process is followed and that every document meets the legal standards required in the UAE.
