Whether you’re planning to snag a new apartment in Dubai, apply for a car loan, or sponsor your family, there’s one unsung hero you’ll often need: your Salary Certificate. It’s the quiet, powerful document that proves your financial credibility in the UAE.
From decoding its purpose to getting it legally stamped for overseas use, this guide takes you through the A to Z of the UAE salary certificate. No fluff. Just practical, real-world steps explained clearly.
What is a Salary Certificate UAE?
A Salary Certificate is an official letter issued by your employer. It declares how much you earn and confirms that you work there. It’s like your financial ID card in the UAE.
It’s not just about the numbers. This humble document opens doors to everything from bank loans to visa approvals.
What Does a Typical Salary Certificate Include?
Here’s what you’ll normally see on your certificate:
- Your full name (as per your Emirates ID or passport)
- Your designation/title within the company
- The company’s full name and address
- Detailed monthly salary breakdown (basic, allowances, etc.)
- Date you joined the company
- Currency in which salary is paid (important for international uses)
- Employee ID (if any) and company trade license number
- Employer’s signature, name, and official company stamp
Situations That Call for a Salary Certificate
Still wondering where and when you’ll need one? Here are everyday (and not-so-everyday) reasons why salary certificates are frequently requested in the UAE:
Financial Applications
- Loans (personal, car, or home loans)
- Credit card approvals — banks want to know you’re earning enough
- Mortgage processes
Property & Lifestyle
- Renting a house or apartment
- Utility registrations (e.g., DEWA, SEWA)
- High-ticket purchases on installment plans
Legal & Visa Use
- Sponsoring a spouse or family member
- Visa renewals or employment-related applications
- Family court or divorce proceedings
International & Tax Use
- Proof of income for tax authorities abroad
- Overseas employment, visa, or immigration applications
Having a salary certificate makes your financial standing clear, credible, and ready for scrutiny.
How to Request a Salary Certificate UAE: Step-by-Step
Let’s keep this simple. Here’s how to request a salary certificate in the UAE:
Step 1: Talk to Your HR or Admin Team
Reach out via email or the internal portal. Ask for a Salary Certificate and state your reason (e.g., “for a car loan with XYZ Bank”)
Step 2: Share Necessary Info
Give them the purpose of the certificate (e.g., “for visa sponsorship”). Provide the name of the organisation it is addressed and any special requirements. Including specific salary breakdown, trade license number, etc.)
Step 3: Wait for Processing
Processing time usually ranges from 1 to 3 business days. Follow up if needed, as HR teams can get busy!
Step 4: Review the Certificate
Before you use it, double-check names, numbers, and titles. Ensure it’s signed and stamped
Need It for Government or Overseas Use? You’ll Need Attestation
In some cases, a regular certificate won’t cut it. You’ll need to get it attested. That’s the UAE’s way of saying, “Yes, this is legit.”
When is Attestation Required?
You may need to get your Salary Certificate attested if you’re using it for a visa or family sponsorship. It’s part of a government process (like a license or registration). Go for attestation if it’s going to be used outside the UAE. You may require attestation if you’re involved in legal or court-related matters or when a foreign embassy or consulate asks for it. Certain banks or financial institutions require attestation for large-value transactions.
Breakdown of Attestation Steps in the UAE
Getting a Salary Certificate attested might sound complicated, but it’s pretty manageable. Here’s the roadmap:
1. Get Your Certificate From Your Employer
Make sure it’s addressed properly and includes all necessary details. It should be on official letterhead with a stamp and a signature
2. Pre-Attestation (If Required)
Some cases require a pre-attestation from municipal offices or the labour department
3. Register on the MOFAIC Portal
Go to mofaic.gov.ae or download the MOFA UAE app. Sign up using UAE Pass or regular login
4. Choose Document Type
Select the Salary Certificate and upload the scanned copy. Choose a digital or courier service
5. Pay Attestation Fees
Fees range from AED 150–200. The e-dirham processing fee is usually AED 6.06. Pay online or at a Customer Happiness Centre
6. Choose Delivery or Download
You can either digitally download it through e-Stamp via the app or use a courier service to get the physical copy
Special Attestation Rules: Income-Based Variations
If you’re planning to use the certificate in India or abroad, income-based rules may apply:
Earning Below AED 10,000?
You’ll need an IVS Global Affidavit. Further, you may be asked for a labour contract and a 3-month bank statement
Earning Above AED 10,000?
Add a Chamber of Commerce stamp to your affidavit. It helps verify financial strength for bigger commitments like home loans or sponsorships
Taking It Abroad? Here’s the Extra Step
Planning to submit the certificate in your home country or elsewhere? Here’s the international attestation process:
- Get it MOFAIC-attested (as outlined above)
- Visit the embassy or consulate of the destination country
- Provide the attested document + any requested forms
- Pay the consulate’s attestation fee
- Ask about translation if your destination country doesn’t accept English/Arabic documents
Sample Salary Certificate Format UAE
Here’s what a real Salary Certificate UAE sample might look like:
[Your Company Logo & Letterhead]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[Phone & Email]
Date: DD/MM/YYYY
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
This is to certify that [Employee Full Name], holding Emirates ID number [123-XXXX-456], is employed with [Company Name] as a [Job Title] since [Date of Joining].
Salary Breakdown (Monthly):
- Basic Salary: AED [XXXX]
- Housing Allowance: AED [XXXX]
- Transportation Allowance: AED [XXXX]
- Other Allowances: AED [XXXX]
- Total Salary: AED [XXXX]
This certificate is issued at the request of the employee for the purpose of [state reason].
[Signature]
[HR Manager / Authorized Person]
[Designation]
Company Stamp
In Closing: Don’t Underestimate This Little Document
While it may seem like a basic HR letter, a Salary Certificate is a powerful tool that proves your economic credibility in the UAE. Whether you’re renting your dream villa in Sharjah or sending your child abroad to study, this certificate clears the way.
Be proactive! Know when and how to ask for it. Keep a copy ready. And if needed, get it attested, locally or internationally.
This one document can save you time, money, and stress just by being prepared.
Need Your Salary Certificate UAE?
Are you in the process of obtaining a salary certificate in the UAE and looking for help? The Emiratisation Nafis team is here to offer you comprehensive assistance. Our professionals assist you in the whole process. You’ll receive our guidance on how to smoothly obtain your salary certificate from your employer. If you need attestation services? You’ll find our guidance in this regard also.
We advise you not to wait till the last minute. Quickly reach out to your HR team today. Start the process as soon as possible. If you find it difficult, you can hire Emiratisation Nafis.
Have found this guide helpful? Consider bookmarking it. You never know when that next financial or legal application will pop up!
