Common Law Affidavit Template for the United Arab Emirates

A Common Law Affidavit in the United Arab Emirates is a sworn legal document that allows you to make formal statements under oath within the UAE's distinctive legal framework. This hybrid document bridges common law principles with UAE civil law requirements, making it essential for various legal, business, and personal matters throughout the Emirates.

When do you need this document?

You'll need a Common Law Affidavit when making sworn statements for court proceedings in DIFC or ADGM courts, verifying personal information for visa applications, confirming business relationships in commercial disputes, or supporting property transactions requiring sworn testimony. Corporate representatives often use these affidavits to verify company information, while individuals may need them to confirm identity, marital status, or financial circumstances for official purposes. The document is particularly valuable when UAE authorities or international entities require formal sworn statements that carry legal weight.

Key legal considerations

Your affidavit must include specific elements to be legally valid: clear identification of the deponent with Emirates ID or passport details, precise statement of your capacity and authority to make the declarations, and explicit oath language confirming the truthfulness of your statements. The document must be structured to meet both common law standards and UAE legal requirements, ensuring it's admissible as evidence under UAE Federal Law No. 10 of 1992. Consider potential perjury implications, as false statements in sworn affidavits carry serious legal consequences. If your affidavit involves international matters, ensure it complies with both UAE law and the requirements of the destination jurisdiction.

Legal requirements in United Arab Emirates

Under UAE Federal Law No. 4 of 2013, your affidavit must be properly notarized by an authorized notary public to be legally recognized. The document requires execution before qualified officials who can administer oaths, typically notaries, consular officers, or court officials. If the affidavit contains non-Arabic content, you may need certified translation services under UAE Federal Law No. 6 of 2012. For matters involving DIFC jurisdiction, ensure compliance with DIFC Law No. 10 of 2004, which governs common law documentation validity. The affidavit must clearly state the jurisdiction and include proper attestation by authorized officials. Embassy or consulate authentication may be required for international use, and corporate affidavits may need additional corporate authorization documentation.