Public vs. Private Notary in the UAE: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to legalizing documents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), notarization is an essential step. Whether you are signing a Power of Attorney (POA), transferring property, registering a will, or authenticating commercial contracts, your documents must be legally notarized. But here’s the common question many clients ask: Should I use a public notary or a private notary in the UAE?
Understanding the difference between a public notary and a private notary in Dubai and the wider UAE can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
What is a Public Notary in the UAE?
A public notary in the UAE is an official government officer, usually appointed by the Ministry of Justice (or in Dubai, by the Dubai Courts). The public notary’s role is to witness and authenticate documents, ensuring they comply with UAE laws.
Services Provided by Public Notaries
- Authentication of powers of attorney
- Notarization of wills and inheritance documents
- Verification of property sale or lease agreements
- Attesting corporate resolutions, MOAs, and shareholder agreements
- Certifying affidavits and declarations
Advantages of Public Notary Services
- Recognized and regulated directly by the government.
- Standardized notary fees in Dubai and UAE.
- Widely accepted by local courts, government bodies, and authorities.
Limitations
- Long waiting times due to heavy demand.
- Appointments may need to be booked in advance.
- Strict office hours only (no weekends or evenings).
- Limited flexibility for urgent notarization.
What is a Private Notary in the UAE?
A private notary in Dubai or the UAE is a licensed lawyer or advocate who is authorized by the government to provide notary services. They perform similar tasks as public notaries but operate with greater flexibility.
Services Provided by Private Notaries
- Drafting and notarization of powers of attorney (general & specific).
- Notarization of property transfer documents.
- Certification of company documents like board resolutions and shareholder agreements.
- Attestation of loan agreements, contracts, and declarations.
- Mobile notary services at your office, home, or even remotely via approved digital platforms.
Advantages of Private Notary Services
- Faster processing – often same-day notarization.
- Flexible locations – office visits, mobile notary, and online notarization options.
- Extended working hours compared to government offices.
- Ideal for urgent notarization in Dubai or last-minute document requirements.
- More personalized, discreet, and client-oriented service.
Limitations
- Private notary fees can be slightly higher than public notary fees.
- Must ensure the private notary is licensed and authorized to operate.
Key Differences Between Public and Private Notaries in the UAE
| Feature | Public Notary | Private Notary |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Appointed by UAE government / Dubai Courts | Licensed lawyers authorized to notarize |
| Fees | Fixed, government-set | Varies, generally higher for convenience |
| Waiting Time | Longer, requires booking | Faster, often same-day service |
| Flexibility | Office only, limited hours | Mobile, office, and online notarization |
| Best For | Routine notarization, official government use | Urgent, flexible, or private client needs |
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between a public notary and a private notary in the UAE depends on your priorities:
- If you want affordable notarization and don’t mind waiting, a public notary in Dubai Courts or UAE Ministry of Justice is sufficient.
- If you value speed, convenience, and flexible service, hiring a private notary in Dubai is the smarter option—especially for urgent property transactions, business contracts, or last-minute legal documents.
Conclusion
Both public notaries and private notaries in the UAE serve the same legal purpose: authenticating and verifying documents. The difference lies in efficiency, flexibility, and convenience. For routine notarizations, public notaries are a reliable choice. But if you need quick, private, or mobile notary services in Dubai, a private notary can provide a smoother and faster experience.
