The Cost of Degree Attestation in UAE: What to Expect and How to Budget

Navigating degree attestation for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can be a complex and costly process. However, understanding the steps and fees involved can help you plan effectively and avoid surprises. This article provides a comprehensive guide to degree attestation UAE costs in the UAE, outlining the procedures, expected expenses, and tips to budget wisely.

Why Degree Attestation is Necessary in the UAE

Degree attestation is a legal process that verifies the authenticity of your academic credentials. It is essential for expatriates in the UAE seeking employment, higher education, or residency permits. Attestation ensures that the credentials you present have been verified by relevant educational and government authorities in your home country and in the UAE.

The attestation process confirms that:

The degree is genuine and was issued by a recognized institution.
The holder has completed all necessary requirements.
The document has been endorsed by the home country’s authorities and UAE authorities.

Failing to attest a degree can lead to job offer withdrawals, delays in work permit approvals, or even denial of residency applications. Therefore, attestation is not merely a formality but a critical step for anyone planning to live and work in the UAE.

Step-by-Step Guide to Degree Attestation in the UAE

Before delving into costs, it’s essential to understand the attestation process itself. While it may vary slightly based on nationality and the type of degree, the general procedure includes these stages:

University Verification
The first step is to authenticate your degree at the university where you graduated. This ensures the document is legitimate and often requires an application fee, which varies by institution.
State-Level Attestation (Home Country)
For degrees issued in some countries, you may need state or regional attestation. This step validates your document at a regional level before it proceeds to the national level.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Attestation (Home Country)
Next, you’ll need to attest your document at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (or equivalent body) in your home country. This fee is often standardized, but the costs and processing times vary based on your country’s regulations.
UAE Embassy Attestation
After the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the degree must be attested by the UAE Embassy in your home country. Embassy attestation ensures the document is recognized by UAE authorities, and fees here can vary significantly depending on the country.
UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC)
Once in the UAE, the final step is to attest your document at MOFAIC. This is the last step, and it confirms that the document is ready for use in official settings within the UAE.

Each stage may have different costs and requirements. Below, we break down typical expenses to help you budget for this process.

Expected Costs for Degree Attestation

Degree attestation costs differ based on nationality, degree type, urgency, and whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a third-party attestation service. Here’s an approximate breakdown:

University Verification
- Cost: Typically ranges from $10 to $100.
- Additional Info: Some universities may require a courier service fee if they send the document directly to a state authority or ministry.
State-Level Attestation
- Cost: $20 to $50, though not all countries require this step.
- Additional Info: This fee is usually paid to a regional government body and may vary within different regions of the same country.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Home Country)
- Cost: Between $20 and $150.
- Additional Info: This step verifies that the document is legitimate at a national level. Costs vary depending on the processing time and any additional courier fees if you are applying remotely.
UAE Embassy Attestation
- Cost: Typically $100 to $200.
- Additional Info: In some countries, the UAE Embassy may charge higher fees. Also, embassy attestation is often required for each document, meaning additional fees for transcripts or other academic certificates.
MOFAIC (UAE)
- Cost: AED 150 (approx. $40) per document.
- Additional Info: MOFAIC attestation can be done in person or through an online application. There might be extra charges for express services.

Total Estimated Costs and Budgeting Tips

The total cost for degree attestation can range from approximately $150 to $500, depending on the requirements of each step, the number of documents you need attested, and any additional service charges.

To budget effectively, consider these strategies:

Start Early
Begin the process well in advance, as expediting fees can add up quickly. Starting early gives you the flexibility to choose standard processing times, which are generally less expensive.
Use Courier Services Wisely
Attestation often requires sending documents between agencies. Using a reliable courier is essential, but compare rates and plan ahead to avoid high-speed delivery charges.
Consider Hiring a Third-Party Service
While attestation services charge additional fees, they may simplify the process by handling each step on your behalf. This option can be worth considering if your time is limited, as it reduces the likelihood of errors or missed steps that may lead to costly delays.
Prepare for Hidden Fees
Factor in costs for additional copies of your degree, translation services (if required), and transportation, especially if you need to visit government offices in person.

DIY Attestation vs. Hiring a Professional Service

Both options have their pros and cons. If you have the time and resources, handling the attestation yourself can save money. However, it requires meticulous attention to detail. Here are the pros and cons of each approach:

DIY Attestation
- Pros: Lower cost, more control over each step.
- Cons: Time-intensive, complex, and requires knowledge of each authority’s requirements.
Professional Attestation Services
- Pros: Convenience, expertise, time-saving.
- Cons: Higher cost, possible additional service fees.

For individuals who are new to the UAE or need their documents attested urgently, professional services can offer peace of mind and reduce the chances of errors.

Additional Considerations for a Smooth Attestation Process

To avoid potential roadblocks, here are some additional considerations:

Check Document Requirements
Ensure your documents meet all formatting, language, and content requirements before submitting them for attestation. Some documents may require translation, and it’s wise to use certified translation services if needed.
Prepare Copies
Some authorities may ask for copies alongside original documents. Have multiple copies of your degree, passport, and any other identification ready.
Track Processing Times
Processing times vary between countries, and delays are not uncommon. Keep track of timelines and contact each agency directly to check on the progress if needed.
Verify Validity for UAE Workplaces
Ensure that the attested degree meets UAE employment standards, as some employers may have additional requirements beyond the standard attestation.
Seek Employer Guidance
If your employer requires attestation, ask if they offer support or reimbursement for the process. Some companies in the UAE assist new hires with document attestation.

Conclusion: Attestation as a Smart Investment

While degree attestation in the UAE can be costly and time-consuming, it is a worthwhile investment in securing a stable career and residency in a thriving market. Proper planning, budgeting, and understanding the steps involved can streamline the process, enabling you to navigate each stage efficiently.

By preparing in advance and weighing your options—whether doing it yourself or using a third-party service—you can make informed choices that save time and money. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your documents are verified and ready for use in the UAE is invaluable and an essential step toward realizing your professional and personal goals in this vibrant country.