What Is an Apostille and Do You Need One in the UAE? | E-Notary Dubai

What Is an Apostille?

An Apostille is a form of international document certification established by the Hague Convention of 1961. It is a standardized certificate that confirms the authenticity of a document (its seal, signature, or the capacity of the person who signed it) so it can be used in any of the 125+ countries that have joined the convention — without needing any further embassy attestation.

• →Embassy attestation: required for non-Hague countries, involves the destination country's embassy in the UAE

Who Issues Apostilles in the UAE?

In the UAE, Apostilles are issued by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). The process requires the document to first be notarized (for legal documents) or certified by the relevant authority (for educational documents, birth certificates, etc.), and then MOFA applies the Apostille stamp.

• →Cost difference: Apostille is usually significantly quicker and faster than full embassy attestation

Which Countries Accept an Apostille?

As of 2025, the Hague Apostille Convention has over 125 member countries. Notable recent additions: India (joined January 7, 2023). Major members include: USA, UK, Germany, France, Australia, Canada, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, India, China (limited), most of Europe, and many South American and African countries.

Does Saudi Arabia Accept Apostilles?

No. Saudi Arabia is not a member of the Hague Convention. Documents going to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and many Middle Eastern countries still require embassy attestation — the Apostille is not accepted.

Apostille vs. Embassy Attestation — What Is the Difference?