Arabic Translation Requirements for the UAE (2025 Guide)

The ICA (formerly known as DNRD) oversees residency visa and Emirates ID applications. For residency visa applications, ICA requires certified Arabic translations of all foreign-language documents including passports, educational certificates, employment contracts, and personal status documents (birth, marriage certificates).

Applications are submitted through the ICP Smart Services portal or through a UAE-based sponsor (employer or family member). Both routes require the same document quality, but digital submissions accept PDF translations while physical submissions require printed, signed originals.

International graduates applying for academic equivalency in the UAE (required for certain professional licences and government employment) must submit their foreign qualifications with certified Arabic translations to the Ministry of Education equivalency department.

The Ministry is particularly strict about the accuracy of academic titles and specialisations. A degree in 'Information Technology' must not be translated as 'Computer Science' — these are distinct academic categories. Our translators specialise in academic terminology to avoid such misclassifications.

UAE universities generally require certified Arabic translations of academic documents for international applicants. The specific requirements vary:

• UAEU: Requires certified translations of all academic qualifications from non-Arabic-medium institutions. • Khalifa University: Requires certified translations for non-English documents; English documents may be accepted in English for initial applications. • American University of Sharjah: Has an English-medium admissions process but may require Arabic translations for government compliance. • Private institutions (Murdoch, Middlesex, etc.): Requirements vary; verify individually.

For secondary education (applying to UAE secondary schools), the Ministry of Education requires Arabic translations of previous school records.

The UAE Golden Visa (10-year residency) requires strong documentation for all qualification-based applications. Academic qualifications for the 'outstanding student' and 'exceptional talent' categories must be supported by translated and certified degree certificates and transcripts.

Golden Visa applications are reviewed by multiple authorities including ICA and the relevant sectoral body (Ministry of Education for academic qualifications). Translations must be precise, complete, and certified. Any inconsistency between the translation and the original document can delay the multi-stage review process significantly.

UAE federal requirements apply throughout the country. However, in practice, some Dubai-specific free zone applications (DIFC, TECOM, etc.) and Abu Dhabi government entity applications may have additional or slightly different document requirements due to their specialised regulatory environments.

For free zone employment visas, the sponsoring company's PRO (Public Relations Officer) typically advises on document requirements. Ensure your translator is aware of the intended submission authority.