The United Arab Emirates is not a party to the Apostille Convention according to the HCCH status table. Thai documents for use in the UAE therefore need chain legalisation both before and after 28 February 2027. The usual sequence is: attorney certification of the signature or translation for private documents, Department of Consular Affairs authentication, legalisation by the UAE Embassy in Bangkok, then attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs once the document is in the UAE.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-29 · General information only, not legal advice for your specific case
Check the destination's status first
The HCCH status table is the official list of member states and objections between them. Countries not listed still use embassy legalisation or attestation.
Status can change, so check it when you plan, rather than relying on lists elsewhere.
Sequence for the UAE
1. Prepare the document
An original government document, or a private document signed before a Notarial Services Attorney.
2. Translate if needed
UAE recipients often want Arabic or English; check with them.
3. Department of Consular Affairs
Authentication at the Legalization Division.
4. UAE Embassy in Bangkok
Legalisation under the embassy's system and appointments.
5. UAE MOFA
Final attestation in the UAE under the ministry's system.
Documents often sent to the UAE
- Degrees and transcripts for work permits
- Marriage and birth certificates for dependant visas
- Company certificates and powers of attorney for business
- Police clearance certificates
Arabic translation
Some UAE authorities require an Arabic translation by a UAE-licensed translator after attestation. In that case a translation made in Thailand is unnecessary or may not be accepted. Ask the recipient before translating.
Other non-member countries
The same principle applies elsewhere: Consular Affairs, then that country's embassy, and possibly a further step in the destination. Countries without an embassy in Thailand may use an embassy accredited to Thailand from another country.
Frequently asked questions
Once Thailand joins, can the UAE accept apostilles?
No, not unless the UAE becomes a party. Chain legalisation still applies.
Can I skip Consular Affairs and go straight to the UAE Embassy?
Generally no; the embassy legalises the Consular Affairs officer's signature.
What are UAE embassy fees?
They follow the rates published by the embassy and UAE MOFA, which vary by document type.
Are originals needed?
Each layer is applied to the original or a certified copy.
What does your service cost?
It depends on documents and steps. Please contact our team for a quotation.
Official sources
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