A legal notice through the Dubai Courts e-Notary system is faster than most people expect — often approved within a day or two. This article breaks down the timeline, the stages, and the cost.
Last updated: May 2026. Part of our complete bounced cheque recovery guide.
Quick answer
A notarized legal notice (judicial warning) through Dubai Courts is typically submitted, audited, and approved within 24–48 hours. The notary fee is around AED 220. After approval, the notice period given to the recipient — commonly 7 working days — is the main waiting period.
The stages
1. Preparation & authentication
The notice is drafted and the applicant authenticates via UAE Pass. The request is created in the e-Notary system and saved with a request number before submission.
2. Fee payment
The notary fee (around AED 220) is paid electronically. A payment receipt is issued against the request.
3. Auditing
The request moves to auditing by a notary. In most straightforward cases the result is “approved without attendance” — meaning neither party needs to appear in person. Occasionally the auditor may request presence.
4. Approval & e-certificate
Once approved, the system issues the certified electronic document (the notarized notice). This usually completes within 24–48 hours of submission.
5. Service & notice period
The notice is then served. Service can use the court’s channel plus direct delivery (email, WhatsApp, courier) for stronger proof. The recipient is given a deadline — commonly 7 working days — to comply.
Total realistic timeline
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Drafting + authentication | Same day |
| Submission → audit → approval | 24–48 hours |
| Notice period given to recipient | 7 working days |
| Total to deadline expiry | ~8–9 working days |
What can slow it down
- Incorrect recipient details (name/address mismatch with Emirates ID)
- UAE Pass authentication delays
- The auditor requesting attendance (uncommon)
Getting the recipient’s details exactly right the first time is the most common avoidable delay.
After the notice expires
If the deadline passes without payment, the next steps are a final demand and then cheque execution filing.
Need a notice drafted and notarized fast? Legal notice drafting & e-notarization
Frequently asked questions
How much does a legal notice cost in Dubai? The notary fee is around AED 220, plus any service/drafting charges.
Do I have to appear in court? Usually no — most notices are “approved without attendance.” The auditor can request presence in some cases.
How many days should the notice give? Commonly 7 working days, though 14 is also used depending on the matter.