Certified Legal Translation: A Mandatory Requirement for Dubai Courts

Certified Legal Translation: A Mandatory Requirement for Dubai Courts

When involved in litigation or legal proceedings in Dubai, the accuracy and legal validity of submitted documents can directly determine the outcome of a case. Dubai Courts apply strict procedural standards, particularly regarding documents issued in languages other than Arabic. As a matter of law and practice, all non-Arabic documents must be translated into Arabic by a Ministry of Justice (MOJ) certified legal translator to be accepted by the courts.

This article explains why certified legal translation is a mandatory requirement for Dubai Courts, outlines the legal framework governing court translations in the UAE, highlights the risks of using non-certified translators, and provides practical guidance for individuals and businesses preparing documents for judicial proceedings.

Why Certified Legal Translation Is Mandatory in Dubai Courts

Arabic is the official language of the UAE judiciary. Dubai Courts, like all UAE courts, conduct proceedings, issue judgments, and review submissions exclusively in Arabic. Any document presented in another language—whether English, Spanish, French, or otherwise—must be accompanied by an official Arabic translation certified by an MOJ-approved translator.

This requirement is not procedural formality; it is a legal safeguard designed to ensure:
• Accuracy and consistency in judicial interpretation  
• Equal understanding by judges, court clerks, and opposing parties  
• Protection against misrepresentation or mistranslation  
• Uniform application of UAE law  

Documents translated by freelancers or non-certified agencies are routinely rejected, regardless of linguistic quality.

Legal Basis for Certified Translation in UAE Courts

The requirement for certified legal translation stems from UAE judicial regulations and Ministry of Justice directives governing court procedures. Only translators licensed and registered with the UAE Ministry of Justice are authorized to produce translations that carry legal validity before courts and government authorities.

An MOJ-certified translation:
• Bears the official stamp and signature of the licensed translator  
• Confirms the translation is complete, accurate, and faithful to the original  
• Assigns legal responsibility to the translator for the content  
• Is admissible as official evidence in court proceedings  

Without this certification, a translation has no legal standing, even if prepared by a native speaker or professional linguist.

Types of Documents Requiring Certified Translation

Dubai Courts require certified legal translation for a wide range of documents, including but not limited to:

• Contracts and commercial agreements  
• Powers of attorney  
• Court judgments issued abroad  
• Corporate documents (articles of association, board resolutions)  
• Financial records and audit reports  
• Employment contracts and labor-related documents  
• Real estate agreements  
• Evidence bundles and supporting exhibits  

In litigation matters, even supporting documents such as emails, invoices, or correspondence may require certified translation if relied upon in pleadings.

Risks of Using Non-Certified Translations

Attempting to submit non-certified translations can have serious legal and financial consequences, including:

• Immediate rejection of documents by the court  
• Delays in hearings and procedural timelines  
• Requests for re-translation at additional cost  
• Weakening of legal arguments or evidence  
• Adverse judgments due to incomplete or inadmissible submissions  

In contentious cases, a single rejected document can undermine an entire claim or defense.

The Role of the Notary Public vs. Certified Translator

A common misconception is that notarization can replace certified legal translation. In reality, notarization and translation serve different legal purposes.

• A Notary Public verifies signatures and document execution  
• An MOJ-certified translator validates linguistic accuracy and legal equivalence  

In many cases, both notarization and certified translation are required, particularly for contracts or powers of attorney intended for court use.

How to Prepare Documents for Dubai Court Submission

To avoid delays and rejection, the recommended process is as follows:

1. Obtain the original document or a legally valid copy  
2. Ensure the document is complete and final  
3. Submit the document to an MOJ-certified legal translation office  
4. Receive the stamped and signed certified Arabic translation  
5. Submit both the original document and the certified translation to Dubai Courts  

Working with a professional legal translation firm familiar with court procedures significantly reduces risk and ensures compliance.

Why Choosing the Right Translation Provider Matters

Not all translation providers are equal. For court-related matters, it is essential to work with a licensed legal translation company that:
• Employs MOJ-certified translators  
• Has experience with Dubai Courts procedures  
• Understands legal terminology and judicial standards  
• Provides accountability and confidentiality  

Certified legal translation is not a commodity service—it is a critical legal requirement.

Conclusion: Compliance Is Not Optional

In Dubai’s judicial system, certified legal translation is not a recommendation or best practice—it is a mandatory legal requirement. Courts will not accept non-Arabic documents unless they are translated by an MOJ-certified translator, regardless of the document’s importance or origin.

For individuals, businesses, and legal professionals, ensuring proper certified translation protects legal rights, prevents procedural setbacks, and supports fair judicial outcomes. Investing in certified legal translation is ultimately an investment in legal certainty, credibility, and success before Dubai Courts.