Ministry launches pilot phase for digital document attestation service in UAE

To align with its strategic goal of offering smart and proactive digital services, while addressing customer needs and feedback, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the launch of the pilot phase for its digital document attestation service.

Scheduled to begin next Monday  (April 27, 2026), this service introduces verification features such as QR codes, reference numbers, and barcodes.

Users can complete the attestation process for documents through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as UAE missions in destination countries by submitting their applications via the Ministry's digital platforms, including its website and mobile app.

The Ministry highlighted that the new service was designed based on user input, resulting in a simplified and more efficient process.

Specifically, the number of procedural steps has been reduced from eight to three, and required procedures have been minimised from two to one, ensuring a more seamless experience for applicants.

To utilise the digital document attestation service, certain criteria must be met.

Documents must be issued in the UAE and include a verification method, such as a QR code, barcode, reference number, or electronic link.

The Ministry outlined the key steps for applying for authentication of these documents: first, selecting the relevant authentication service within the UAE; second, identifying the type of document to be attested; and finally, entering the required information and completing the application process.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs outlined the steps for using the digital document attestation service. To begin, users must log in with their digital ID and select the "Attestation in the UAE" option, followed by choosing "Digital Documents" under the document type category.

Next, users need to fill in the document details, select the UAE embassy in the destination country for attestation, and then submit their application. Once these steps are completed, the Ministry confirmed that the process is finalised, and the document will be attested by both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective UAE embassy in the destination country.

For more details, users can refer to the guide available on the official website www.mofa.gov.ae or through the "UAE MOFA" smart app.

The Ministry's user guide elaborates on various attestation services, including the pilot phase of digital document attestation. It also outlines services offered within the UAE, such as those provided to individuals and companies through delivery service providers.

Digital Service

The Ministry clarified that its digital document attestation service facilitates the verification of documents through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and UAE embassies in the respective destination country.

This process ensures the legitimacy of seals and signatures on documents, whether issued within the UAE or abroad. The choice of attestation method depends on whether the document is in digital or non-digital format.

The Ministry highlighted that the service caters to both individuals and companies, accessible via their official website and mobile application.

It emphasised key requirements for attestation, such as ensuring the document in question is issued within the UAE and includes a verification feature like a QR code, barcode, or reference number.

Additionally, the Ministry noted that during the trial phase, the service will be completed within two working days, adhering to official business hours.

Steps of Application

The Ministry clarified that the process starts by logging into the service with a digital ID, followed by selecting "Attestation in the UAE" and choosing "Digital Documents" from the available document type options, which include digital, commercial, and personal.

It was further explained that applicants must then provide the necessary details, such as the issuing authority, document type, and applicant information. They should specify that the document originates in the UAE, select the destination country where it will be used, and upload the relevant document.

Fees and Payment

It further explained that its digital document attestation service enables users to attest up to five documents per application. Applicants must pay the total fees for all documents, after which they can review the application details, check the total fees, explore payment options, and proceed with the payment process.

Additionally, the company highlighted that a payment receipt is provided, and a confirmation email is sent to the registered address upon receipt of the application. Users can monitor the status of their application through multiple options, including a tracking number or the submission date.