Contract Legalization
A Contract is a legally binding agreement between two or more parties outlining specific terms, conditions, and obligations. When a contract executed in the United States is intended for official, legal, or commercial use in the United Arab Emirates, it must be legalized by the UAE Embassy in Washington, D.C. This legalization process confirms the authenticity of the signatures, seals, and authorities involved in its execution, ensuring its validity under UAE jurisdiction.
When It’s Required
Legalization of a Contract is required whenever a U.S.-issued agreement is to be used in the UAE for legal, business, or governmental purposes. Common cases include:
Business partnerships or joint ventures with UAE entities.
Supply, distribution, or service agreements involving UAE companies.
Employment or consultancy contracts for use in the UAE.
Lease, franchise, or investment agreements intended for UAE registration.
Submission of contractual documents to UAE government departments or courts.
Legalization Process
All Contracts issued or signed in the United States must be authenticated through the following steps before being accepted for legalization at the UAE Embassy:
Notarization: The Contract must first be notarized by a licensed Notary Public in the United States.
State Authentication: The notarized document must then be certified by the Secretary of State in the issuing state.
U.S. Department of State Authentication: Once authenticated at the state level, the document must be certified by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.
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 |
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following materials for processing:
Original notarized Contract.
Copy of the notarized document.
Copy of company registration or identification of all parties involved.
Applicant’s valid ID or authorization letter (if acting on behalf of the company).
Completed UAE Embassy legalization application form.
Proof of payment for all applicable fees.
Important Notes or Conditions
Contracts must include signatures of all parties and be duly notarized.
Digital or scanned signatures are not accepted unless officially notarized.
The Embassy may request supporting documents to verify company or individual authorization.
Documents must be submitted in English or accompanied by a certified translation.