Certified translation plays a crucial role in the Arab world, where official documents must often be translated for governmental and judicial purposes. This article explores the nuances of certified translation across various Arab nations, highlighting the unique regulatory frameworks and requirements that shape the industry.
Certified translation refers to the process of translating documents for official use by authorities such as courts, embassies, and government departments. These entities require translations that meet specific standards to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The criteria for certified translations can vary significantly from one country to another, often involving a formal declaration by the translator or translation agency attesting to the fidelity of the translation to the original document. For more details, visit the American Translators Association.
In Egypt, the regulation of certified translations is relatively lenient compared to other countries. There is no centralized body that governs the certification of translators or their work. Instead, translators or agencies must simply provide a signed and stamped statement asserting the accuracy of their translation and its adherence to the original document. This statement must also include the translation date and the details of the original document.
Saudi Arabia offers a more structured approach to certified translation. Translators must obtain a professional license from the Saudi Ministry of Commerce and Investment, which involves meeting educational and experiential prerequisites. The requirements include:
This licensing ensures that certified translations in Saudi Arabia adhere to high standards of quality and reliability.
The UAE mandates registration with the Ministry of Justice and obtaining a local license to practice translation. The Council of Ministers' decision No. 7/2014 outlines several prerequisites for translators, including good conduct, fluency in relevant languages, and a minimum of five years' experience post-graduation. Translators must also pass specific tests and procedures, maintain good health, and secure professional liability insurance.
Kuwait currently lacks specific laws regulating the translation profession, relying instead on general business licensing procedures and educational qualifications. In contrast, Palestine has established legal frameworks under Law No. 15 of 1995, requiring translators to pass a legal translation test and take an oath before the Minister of Justice.
Tunisia has a structured system for appointing sworn translators, updated last in 1994. Sworn translators must specialize in one language and are appointed by a resolution from the Minister of Justice. Their details are then published in the official gazette and distributed across the Republic.
The practice of certified translation in the Arab world varies widely, with each country having its own set of rules and regulations. From the relatively relaxed requirements in Egypt to the more stringent procedures in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, these differences reflect the diverse legal and cultural landscapes of the region. As the demand for accurate and reliable translations continues to grow, understanding these regional nuances becomes essential for both clients and translation professionals.
