Private Notary vs Public Notary in Dubai

In Dubai, as in many jurisdictions, there are distinctions between private and public notaries. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right service based on your needs. Here are the key differences:

Public Notary
— A public notary is an official appointed by the government.
— They have the authority to authenticate documents, administer oaths, witness signatures, and certify copies of documents.
— They play a crucial role in legal and official matters, ensuring that documents meet the required legal standards.

— Authenticating contracts, agreements, and powers of attorney.
— Attesting signatures and verifying the identity of signatories.
— Certifying true copies of documents.
— Public notaries operate under the jurisdiction of the Dubai Courts.
— Fees for services are regulated by the government and are usually lower compared to private notaries.

Private Notary
— A private notary is typically a lawyer who is licensed to provide notarial services.
— They can offer more personalized and flexible services, often catering to specific client needs.

— Similar to public notaries, private notaries can authenticate documents, witness signatures, and certify copies.
— They can also offer additional legal advice and services related to the documents they notarize.

— Private notaries are regulated by the Legal Affairs Department and must adhere to specific guidelines.
— Their fees are not regulated by the government and can be higher than those of public notaries, reflecting the personalized services they offer.

Choosing Between Public and Private Notaries
- **Public Notary**: Ideal for standard, straightforward notarial services where cost and official recognition are primary considerations.
- **Private Notary**: Suitable for complex or specialized legal matters where you may need additional legal advice or more flexible services.

In summary, the choice between a public and private notary in Dubai depends on the complexity of your needs, the level of personalized service you require, and your budget.