Commercial Agreements and Contracts Legalization for the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

When conducting business with UAE partners or expanding operations into the UAE, your commercial agreements and contracts must be properly legalized to be recognized by UAE authorities. The Embassy of the UAE in Washington, D.C. facilitates the legalization process to ensure that your U.S.-issued business documents are valid, enforceable, and compliant with UAE regulations.

The U.S. Arab Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Embassy of the UAE, provides reliable and expedited legalization services for all types of commercial agreements and contracts.

What Are Commercial Agreements and Contracts?

Commercial agreements and contracts are legally binding documents that define business relationships, obligations, and transactions between two or more parties. Examples include:

  • Sales and purchase agreements

  • Distribution or agency contracts

  • Franchise and licensing agreements

  • Service and consultancy contracts

  • Joint venture or partnership agreements

  • Memoranda of understanding (MOU)

For these documents to be recognized in the UAE, they must undergo a complete legalization process confirming the authenticity of the document and the authority of the signatories.

Why Legalize Commercial Agreements and Contracts for the UAE?

UAE authorities require that all foreign business contracts submitted for official, financial, or commercial purposes be authenticated and legalized by U.S. authorities and the Embassy of the UAE. Legalization ensures your agreements are:

  • Recognized by UAE ministries and legal entities

  • Accepted in court and administrative proceedings

  • Eligible for government or private sector transactions

  • Legally enforceable in the UAE

Without proper legalization, contracts may be rejected, causing delays or legal complications.

Notarized Company Document Processing Time & Fees.

Service Fees Processing Time
Service fee $80 -
Maryland notary, court and state fees $15 1
Embassy of UAE fee $700 8
Total $795 9 business days

How to Submit Your Documents

To begin the legalization process, include the following in your submission package:

  • Documents intended for use in the UAE, prepared and notarized as required
  • A completed Service Request Form indicating the UAE as the destination
    • Check or Money Order payable to “U.S. Arab Chamber of Commerce”
    • Prepaid return envelope with tracking (FedEx, DHL, UPS, or USPS)

    Start Legalizing Your Commercial Agreements Today

    Ensure your commercial contracts are fully authenticated and legally recognized in the UAE. The Embassy of the UAE and the U.S. Arab Chamber of Commerce provide fast, secure, and reliable document legalization services, helping your business operate seamlessly across borders.