Short answer: all four need MEA’s stamp, but in different forms. UAE, Kuwait and Qatar need MEA attestation followed by their own attestation (UAE digital, or embassy + MOFA). Saudi Arabia joined the Apostille Convention in December 2022, so it now generally needs an MEA apostille instead of Saudi Embassy attestation.
The Gulf is where most Indian documents go — and the rules have changed. Saudi Arabia moved to the apostille in 2022 and the UAE moved to digital attestation. Here’s the current route for each.
The four countries compared
UAE
After state and MEA attestation, apply online through the UAE MoFA with UAE Pass. The digital attestation is certified by both the UAE Embassy in New Delhi and the UAE MoFA. UAE guide.
Documents going abroad?
We handle MEA apostille for 120+ Hague countries (Saudi Arabia, China, Europe, USA) and embassy attestation for the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and more — state, MEA and embassy stages done for you, with pan-India courier pickup.
Kuwait
MEA attestation, then the Kuwait Embassy in India, then MOFA in Kuwait. Kuwait checks educational documents carefully. Kuwait guide.
Qatar
MEA attestation, then the Qatar Embassy in India, then MOFA in Qatar. Qatar guide.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s accession to the Apostille Convention took effect on 7 December 2022. Indian documents for Saudi Arabia generally need state attestation and an MEA apostille — no Saudi Embassy step. Some employers or agencies still quote the old process, so we confirm the current requirement for your document.
Before MEA: state attestation
For all four countries, documents start with HRD (education), SDM / Home Department (personal) or Chamber of Commerce (commercial).
Not sure which attestation your form needs? Send a photo of it on WhatsApp or call +91 93109 70010 — we tell you the exact process before you spend any money.
Frequently asked questions
Does Saudi Arabia need embassy attestation?
Generally no. Since 7 December 2022 Saudi Arabia accepts the apostille, so an MEA apostille is used.
Does the UAE accept apostille?
No. The UAE needs MEA attestation followed by UAE attestation.
Which is faster — apostille or embassy attestation?
Usually apostille, because there’s no embassy step.
SK Document Centre has helped people in Delhi NCR with attestation, affidavits, apostille and embassy legalisation for over a decade. Questions about your documents? WhatsApp us.
