Originally Posted by worchyld

After calling, I've confirmed the following (for UK only).

1. Documents must first be signed by a UK solititor or notary public. Magistrates cannot act as notary public. My local one says they "can" sign things, but they aren't a notary public.

2. Documents must then be legalised by the FCO. There is no workaround. This can be done in person, or post. It costs £27 per document.

3. Documents must then be legalised by the UAE embassy. There is no workaround. This can be done in person, or post.

I've only called 1 Notary public at the moment and they quoted: £80+VAT for first signature and £20+VAT per signature after that. If there is a family of 4 - you're looking at £800+.

I've not checked with solititors or other notary publics yet, but I assume you can shop around to get the best price.

I've also not confirmed whether a notary public would classify a collection of education papers (AKA: National Record of Achievement) would be classed as 1 document or not. Also the Notary public I called could not tell me which of the documents would be stamped -- would it be the original, the copy, or both? (you're talking double/triple the cost).... though it would seem a bit odd to do a copy and then NOT stamp it.

In Dubai Red Tape Explorer, 3rd Edition on page 11 it says;

This paragraph in the "Red Tape" book seems to clarify everything;

Quote:
"Ensure all documents have been notarised (and attested if applicable) before moving to Dubai.... Notarisation procedures vary from country to country... it's best to contact your embassy in the UAE for precise instructions regarding authentication and costs. In all cases, a copy of the documents must be stamped by a Notary Public, then endorsed by the Ministry of Foreign Affiars and the UAE embassy"