Memorandum of Association Attestation in UAE
Starting a business or expanding your operations in the UAE? A key step in the process is a Memorandum of Association (MOA) attestation. This document defines your company’s structure, objectives and shareholder details. Without MOA attestation, your business cannot proceed with registration, apply for permits or obtain work visas.
At Astute Attestation Services, we provide professional MOA attestation services across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.
At Astute Attestation, we make the attestation process seamless, quick and affordable by allowing you to focus on your business goals while we handle the paperwork.
What is a Memorandum of Association (MOA)?
The Memorandum of Association (MOA) is one of the most important legal documents required to register a company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It defines your business structure, ownership, and objectives, serving as the foundation of your company’s legal identity.
At Astute Attestation, we help businesses draft, attest, and notarize their MOA to ensure full compliance with UAE Commercial Companies Law and the requirements of the Department of Economic Development (DED) or relevant Free Zone authorities.
Key Details Included in the MOA
Company Name:
The official registered name under which your business will operate in the UAE.Legal Structure:
The type of entity being registered, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Civil Company, or Sole Establishment.Shareholders and Share Capital:
Names of all shareholders or partners, their nationalities, ownership percentages, and the total capital invested.Business Activities:
A detailed description of your company’s approved business objectives and activities.Registered Office Address:
The official location of your company’s office where all correspondence and legal notices will be received.Management and Decision-Making:
Roles and responsibilities of company managers or directors, including how key business decisions are made.Profit Distribution:
Clear terms on how profits and losses will be shared among shareholders.Transfer of Shares:
The procedure for selling or transferring ownership shares within the company.Company Duration and Dissolution:
Defines the period of company operation and the process for liquidation if required.
Why is MOA Attestation Necessary?
In the UAE, MOA attestation is required to confirm that your business documents are valid and recognized by local authorities. You will need attested documents for the following:
- Company Registration: A mandatory step to establish or expand your business.
- Permits and Visas: These are necessary for applying for business permits and work visas for your employees.
- Bank Accounts: Essential for opening corporate accounts in UAE banks.
Without this attestation, your business documentation will not be accepted which can delay or halt your plans.
Steps in the MOA Attestation Process
Astute Attestation handles the MOA attestation process step by step to save you time:
- Chamber of Commerce Approval
- Confirms your business is legitimate in your home country.
- Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Authentication
- Verifies the authenticity of your MOA at the government level.
- UAE Embassy Attestation
- Finalize the attestation process to make your document valid for use in the UAE.
NOTE: If the document originates in a Gulf country, we also assist with MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) Attestation, adding another layer of validation.
- Chamber of Commerce Approval
How Long Does MOA Attestation Take?
On average, the entire process takes 8 to 10 working days. Processing times may vary based on your location and specific requirements but we will keep you informed at every stage.
Why Work with Astute Attestation?
- Complete Management: We handle every stage of the process, from the Chamber of Commerce to final delivery.
- Clear Pricing: All costs are transparent, with no hidden fees.
- Timely Completion: Our service is designed to save you time, delivering results as quickly as possible.
FAQs
You can prepare a Memorandum of Association by using a standard template or working with professionals who can draft one based on your business requirements.
MOA attestation confirms the validity of your document through approvals from the Chamber of Commerce, MEA and UAE Embassy.
The document must pass through the proper authorities for verification at each stage to ensure it complies with UAE regulations.