If you’ve ever tried to use your educational certificate in Dubai — whether for a new job, higher studies, or visa processing — you’ve probably heard the terms “KHDA attestation” and “MOE attestation.”
At first glance, they might sound similar. Both confirm that your certificates are legitimate and recognized. But there’s an important difference between them — and knowing it can save you time, effort, and sometimes even the stress of redoing the process.
Let’s break it down in a simple, human way.
🎓 What Is KHDA Attestation?
The KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority) is the educational regulatory body in Dubai.
If you studied in Dubai, KHDA attestation is what makes your degree, diploma, or school certificate officially recognized by employers, universities, and government institutions within the emirate.
📘 KHDA Attestation Applies To:
- Certificates issued by Dubai-based private schools, colleges, or universities.
- School leaving certificates and higher education qualifications obtained in Dubai.
🧾 Why It’s Needed:
- To apply for jobs in Dubai.
- For admission to another university in the UAE.
- For visa or licensing purposes that require proof of education.
In simple terms — KHDA says, “Yes, this certificate is real and from a Dubai-licensed institution.”
🏛️ What Is MOE Attestation?
The MOE (Ministry of Education) handles attestation for federal-level recognition across the entire UAE.
If your certificate is from outside Dubai — for example, from another emirate or abroad — it needs MOE attestation to be officially accepted in the UAE.
📘 MOE Attestation Applies To:
- Certificates issued outside Dubai (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or another country).
- Foreign educational documents that have already been attested by the relevant foreign ministry and UAE Embassy in that country.
🧾 Why It’s Needed:
- To work in government or regulated professions (like healthcare, education, or engineering).
- For equivalency or professional licensing.
- For applying to postgraduate or doctoral programs in UAE universities.
Think of MOE attestation as “federal approval” — confirming that your education meets UAE national standards.
KHDA vs. MOE Attestation — The Key Differences
| Factor | KHDA Attestation | MOE Attestation |
| Authority | Knowledge and Human Development Authority (Dubai) | Ministry of Education (UAE Federal) |
| Covers | Certificates issued within Dubai | Certificates issued outside Dubai or overseas |
| Purpose | For Dubai employers, schools, and local verification | For federal recognition and equivalency |
| Who Needs It | Students and professionals who studied in Dubai | Those with degrees from other emirates or abroad |
| Validity | Recognized mainly within Dubai | Recognized across the entire UAE |
How Long Does Attestation Take?
- KHDA attestation usually takes 2–3 working days if all documents are complete.
- MOE attestation can take 5–10 working days, especially for international certificates that require embassy and ministry verification first.
Cost and Payment
- KHDA fees: Around AED 100–200 per certificate.
- MOE fees: Usually AED 150–300, depending on the document type and origin.
Both can be paid online through official portals or via approved typing centers and attestation service providers.
Need Help Getting Your Certificates Attested?
Document attestation can feel like a maze — multiple authorities, portals, and requirements. That’s where professional help can make things easy.
Quick Attestation handles the process for you from start to finish — whether it’s KHDA, MOE, or embassy attestation. Their experts ensure your documents are verified quickly, correctly, and without stress.
📞 Contact Quick Attestation today for reliable, fast, and affordable certificate attestation services in Dubai.
They’ll take care of the paperwork — so you can focus on your career or studies with peace of mind.
