Memorandum of Association (MOA) & Articles of Association (AOA): Notarization and Legalization by Notary Public

Introduction

Starting a company in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE requires two critical documents: the Memorandum of Association (MOA) and the Articles of Association (AOA). These documents define your company’s legal identity, objectives, and governance structure. To be valid, they must undergo notarization and legalization by a Notary Public in Dubai.

Whether you are forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a free zone entity, or expanding internationally, notarizing and legalizing your MOA and AOA ensures compliance with UAE law and recognition abroad.

Memorandum of Association (MOA) in Dubai

• Defines the company’s objectives and scope of activities.

• States shareholder details, capital structure, and liability clauses.

• Required for LLC company formation in Dubai.

• Must be drafted in Arabic or bilingual (Arabic-English) format for notarization.

Articles of Association (AOA) in UAE

• Governs the internal management and decision-making process.

• Outlines rules for shareholder meetings, voting rights, director appointments, and profit distribution.

• Provides flexibility for companies to set operational policies within UAE law.

Importance of Notarization & Legalization in Dubai

1. Legal Validity – UAE authorities only accept notarized MOA and AOA.

2. Business Licensing – Required for trade license issuance in Dubai and other Emirates.

3. Banking & Contracts – Banks and partners demand notarized documents for credibility.

4. International Recognition – Legalization (via UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and consulates) ensures acceptance abroad.

Step-by-Step Process in Dubai

1. Drafting – Prepare MOA and AOA according to UAE Commercial Companies Law.

2. Translation – Ensure bilingual drafting (Arabic-English) for notarization.

3. Notarization – Sign before a Dubai Notary Public or authorized private notary.

4. Legalization – Attestation by:

   • Dubai Courts Notary Public

   • Ministry of Justice

   • Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)

   • Relevant embassy or consulate (for foreign shareholders).

1. Submission – File notarized and legalized documents with the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED) or free zone authority.

MOA & AOA Legalization for Foreign Investors

• Foreign shareholders must legalize documents in their home country.

• Process includes notarization, embassy attestation, and UAE MOFA legalization.

• Ensures smooth company formation and compliance with UAE regulations.

Conclusion

The Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA) are the backbone of company formation in Dubai and the UAE. Proper notarization and legalization by a Notary Public ensures compliance, credibility, and recognition both locally and internationally.