What is the Difference Between Public and Private Notary Services?

Written By Akshaya Ashok, Reviewed By Retheesh R S

Published on 21/04/2025

In the UAE, Notary services play a vital role in ensuring the authenticity and legality of documents, making them indispensable for legal, business, and personal transactions in Dubai. Whether you’re finalizing a property sale, drafting a power of attorney, or preparing documents for international use, notarization is a critical step.

In Dubai, notary services are offered by both public notaries (government-appointed) and private notaries (licensed legal professionals). Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the right service for your needs.

What are Public Notary Services?

Public notaries are government-appointed officials authorized to perform notarial acts.

Functions:

• Authentication of documents such as sale agreements, powers of attorney, and contracts.
• Attestation of signatures to prevent fraud and ensure document validity.
• Legalization of documents for official use within the UAE or internationally.
  
  

Availability:

Public notary offices are located at central and satellite branches of the courts or the Ministry of Justice.

Cost:

Public notary services are generally more affordable for straightforward tasks, making them a cost-effective option for basic notarization needs.

For understanding more about Notary Public Services, click on this page: Public Notary Services

What are Private Notary Services?

Private notaries are licensed lawyers authorized to perform notarial acts.

Functions:

• Specialize in specific legal areas, such as corporate law, real estate, or family law.
• Offer personalized attention and tailored services to meet individual or business needs.
• May provide additional legal advice and document drafting services.
  
  

Availability:

Private notaries operate from their own offices or legal firms and may offer online services for added convenience.

Cost: 

Private notary services may be more expensive due to their specialized expertise and personalized approach.

What is the Difference Between Public Notaries and Private Notaries?

Conclusion

Choosing between public and private notary services in Dubai depends on your specific needs. Public notaries are ideal for straightforward, cost-effective notarization, while private notaries offer specialized expertise and personalized services for complex legal matters.

For reliable and professional notary services in the UAE, consider partnering with Reyson Badger. Our team of experts ensures that your documents are notarized efficiently and in compliance with UAE regulations, providing peace of mind for all your legal and business needs.

Written By

Akshaya Ashok

Akshaya Ashok is a content writer specializing in creating content focused on accounting and auditing. With over two years of experience, she has developed expertise in crafting professional content for the financial sector.