Introduction to Notary Public in Sharjah
In the fast-paced legal and business environment of the UAE, having documents legally authenticated and notarized is crucial for personal, professional, and commercial dealings. Whether you’re entering into contracts, verifying property transactions, or authenticating power of attorney, the services of a Notary Public Sharjah are indispensable. Sharjah, being one of the most progressive Emirates in the UAE, has well-established legal frameworks and accessible notary services designed to assist both residents and businesses.
Understanding how the notary public system works in Sharjah can save you time, ensure compliance, and avoid unnecessary legal complications. This article offers a comprehensive guide on notarial services in Sharjah, the process, types of documents that can be notarized, and how to choose the right notary for your needs.
What is a Notary Public?
A notary public is a licensed official authorized by the government to perform acts of legal significance, especially witnessing signatures, authenticating legal documents, administering oaths, and certifying copies of official records. In Sharjah and the broader UAE, notary public services are governed by local laws and overseen by the Ministry of Justice or local judicial departments.
Notaries ensure that the person signing a document is doing so willingly and with full understanding, and that the signature is genuine. Their role is critical in preventing fraud and ensuring trust in legal transactions.
Why You Might Need a Notary Public in Sharjah
There are numerous scenarios in which individuals and companies may require notary services in Sharjah. Here are some common situations:
- Power of Attorney (POA): When authorizing someone to act on your behalf legally.
- Real Estate Transactions: Verifying property sale or lease agreements.
- Business Formation and Contracts: Certifying partnership agreements or business incorporations.
- Affidavits and Declarations: Legal declarations, such as no-objection certificates or personal statements.
- Marriage or Divorce Declarations: Especially for international use.
- Educational Document Certification: For visa applications, employment, or study abroad.
Types of Notarial Services in Sharjah
In Sharjah, notarial services are typically offered by:
- Public Notary Offices (under the Department of Justice)
- Private Notary Offices (licensed lawyers authorized to perform notarial services)
Here are the key services provided:
1. Attestation and Authentication
These involve certifying documents for legal use, especially when they need to be submitted outside the UAE. This may include personal documents like birth certificates, academic credentials, or professional licenses.
2. Power of Attorney Notarization
This is one of the most common notarial services. A POA can be general or specific and is used to grant legal authority to another person to act on your behalf.
3. Contract Verification
Notaries help certify business contracts, employment agreements, and partnership deeds to ensure they are legally enforceable and clear in terms.
4. Certified True Copies
When original documents cannot be submitted, notaries provide certified true copies of important records.
5. Will and Testament Certification
Ensuring that a will is correctly drafted, witnessed, and notarized is essential in protecting the interests of heirs.
How to Access Notary Public Services in Sharjah
Accessing notary public services in Sharjah is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the typical process:
Step 1: Document Preparation
Ensure the document is complete, accurate, and complies with UAE law. If it’s in a foreign language, certified translation into Arabic may be required.
Step 2: Visit the Notary Public Office
You can choose between a public notary or a licensed private notary. Private notaries often offer flexible hours and mobile services, making them ideal for urgent needs.
Step 3: Identity Verification
Carry valid identification, such as your Emirates ID or passport. The notary will confirm your identity before proceeding.
Step 4: Document Review and Notarization
The notary will review the document, witness your signature, and affix their official seal or stamp.
Step 5: Payment of Fees
Fees vary depending on the type and number of documents. Private notaries may charge more for convenience and speed.
Choosing Between Public and Private Notary in Sharjah
Both public and private notaries are legally authorized and recognized. However, each comes with specific advantages:
Public Notary
- Governed by Sharjah Judicial Department
- Fixed office hours
- More affordable fees
- More formal procedures
Private Notary
- Faster processing and flexible scheduling
- Mobile services available
- Personalized consultation
- Ideal for urgent or bulk notarizations
For businesses and individuals looking for convenience and tailored service, a private notary public is often the better choice. In fact, if you are located in or near Dubai, you may also consider Private Notary Public Dubai for seamless and fast notarial services.
Important Considerations When Using Notary Services
Here are some critical points to keep in mind:
- Language Requirements: Arabic is the official language. Documents in other languages must be translated by a certified translator.
- Witnesses: Some documents may require additional witnesses, especially for POAs and wills.
- Legalization for International Use: Notarized documents may still require legalization from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the relevant embassy if used abroad.
- Advance Booking: For public notaries, it is advisable to book an appointment to avoid long wait times.
Mobile Notary Services in Sharjah
Modern private notaries offer mobile notary services, where a notary can visit your home or office to carry out the required notarization. This is particularly useful for elderly individuals, high-level executives, or people with mobility limitations.
Mobile notary services are increasingly popular in Sharjah due to their flexibility and speed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Forgetting proper ID or supporting paperwork
- Using unlicensed or unauthorized notaries
- Misunderstanding the legal effect of a notarized document
These errors can lead to delays or legal issues down the line. It’s always recommended to consult with a professional before proceeding.
Cost of Notary Services in Sharjah
Costs can vary depending on the nature of the service and whether you’re using a public or private notary. Here’s a rough guide:
- POA Notarization: AED 150 to AED 500+
- True Copy Certification: AED 50 to AED 100 per document
- Contract Verification: AED 200 to AED 800+
- Mobile Notary Services: Additional AED 200 to AED 500 based on location
Always request a quote before proceeding to avoid hidden charges.
Conclusion
Using a Notary Public in Sharjah is a vital step in ensuring the legal validity of your documents. Whether you’re dealing with personal matters like inheritance or business agreements like company formations, notarization offers legal assurance and peace of mind. From public offices to mobile private notaries, Sharjah offers various options tailored to individual and corporate needs.
For those seeking fast, confidential, and professional service—especially across Dubai and Sharjah—you can consider Private Notary Public Dubai, a reliable partner offering full notarial support in the UAE.
