Oct 04, 2025

If you are a UK graduate planning to work or settle in the United Arab Emirates, one of the essential steps in securing your employment visa or residency permit is attestation of your UK degree certificate. Without this legal verification, your educational qualifications will not be recognized by UAE authorities, and your visa process may face delays or rejection.

This guide explains the step-by-step process, documents required, cost, and timeline for UK degree certificate attestation for UAE.

Why Do You Need to Attest a UK Degree Certificate in UAE?

The UAE government requires foreign educational documents to be attested to confirm their authenticity. Attested degree certificates are mandatory for:

  • Employment visa applications in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and across UAE
  • Family visa or dependent sponsorship (if required as proof of qualification/income)
  • Higher education in UAE universities
  • Professional license applications (healthcare, engineering, teaching, legal sectors)
  • Immigration & long-term residency visas (Golden Visa, Skilled Migration)

In short: attestation = validation of your UK degree in the UAE.

Step-by-Step Process of UK Degree Certificate Attestation for UAE

Attestation involves UK authorities, UAE embassy in London, and MOFA in the UAE. Here’s the process explained:

1. Notarization in the UK

Your original degree certificate must be certified by a UK solicitor or notary public. This ensures the document is genuine before further legalization.

2. Legalization by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)

After notarization, the certificate is submitted to the FCDO for an Apostille stamp. This verifies that the notary/solicitor is recognized by the UK government.

3. UAE Embassy Attestation in London

Next, the document is legalized by the UAE Embassy in London, which confirms that the UK-issued and FCDO-legalized document is authentic for use in the UAE.

4. Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Attestation in UAE

Finally, once the document arrives in the UAE, it must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFAIC). This is the last step to make your UK degree certificate valid for official UAE use.

Documents Required

To complete UK degree attestation for UAE, you will need:

  • Original UK degree certificate
  • Copy of your passport
  • Copy of your UAE visa page (if available)
  • Authorization letter (if applying through an attestation agency)
  • University transcripts (sometimes requested for verification)

Timeline for Attestation

  • Standard process: 2–4 weeks
  • Express services: 7–10 business days (via professional agencies)

Cost of UK Degree Attestation for UAE

The cost depends on the authorities and service provider fees:

  • Notary/Solicitor Certification: £30–£100 (varies)
  • FCDO Apostille: £45 per document (standard service)
  • UAE Embassy London Attestation: £30–£50 per document
  • MOFA Attestation UAE: AED 150 per document
  • Service Agency Fees (Optional): AED 300–800 depending on urgency

💡 Tip: If you are already in the UAE, it is easier and faster to use a document attestation service in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, as they manage couriering and follow-ups with UK and UAE authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use my UK degree certificate in UAE without attestation?
No. The UAE does not accept foreign educational documents without attestation.

2. How long is attestation valid for?
Once attested, your UK degree certificate remains valid permanently unless otherwise stated by UAE authorities.

3. Do I need to be in the UK for attestation?
No, you can appoint an attestation agency to process it on your behalf.

4. Is apostille alone enough for UAE?
No. The UAE is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention, so UAE Embassy attestation + MOFA attestation are mandatory after the apostille.

Conclusion

Attesting your UK degree certificate for a UAE visa is a critical step if you are moving to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or anywhere in the Emirates for work or study. The process involves Notarization → FCDO Apostille → UAE Embassy in London → MOFA UAE.

To save time, many expats choose a professional attestation service provider in the UAE like Quick Attestation services who can handle the process smoothly and deliver your attested certificate hassle-free.

👉 Whether you are applying for an employment visa, Golden Visa, or professional license, make sure your degree is attested and ready before your move to the UAE.