A Power of Attorney (POA) is one of the most useful legal tools for anyone living, working, or investing in Dubai. Whether you’re an expatriate managing property remotely or a business owner delegating authority, understanding how POA works in Dubai is essential for legal and financial protection.
Introduction to Power of Attorney in Dubai
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows one person to give another the authority to act on their behalf. In Dubai, this document is recognized under UAE Federal Law and is widely used for property, business, and personal matters.
Residents and non-residents often use POA to:
- Buy or sell real estate while abroad
- Handle visa or government-related paperwork
- Manage a company or sign contracts
- Represent someone legally in court
Dubai’s legal framework ensures every POA is properly attested and notarized, making it a secure and enforceable document.
What Is a Power of Attorney?
Simply put, a Power of Attorney gives someone else the legal right to represent you in certain matters.
There are two main parties involved:
- Principal: The person granting authority.
- Agent (Attorney-in-Fact): The person receiving the authority.
Once notarized, a Power of Attorney becomes a legally binding document under UAE law and must be written in Arabic (or the bilingual Arabic-English format).
Types of Power of Attorney in Dubai
Dubai recognizes several types of POA, depending on the purpose and level of authority granted.
1. General Power of Attorney
This gives broad authority to handle financial, business, or property matters.
Common uses:
- Managing real estate
- Handling banking transactions
- Representing in business activities
2. Special Power of Attorney
This limits authority to specific actions or cases.
Examples include:
- Selling or renting a property
- Representing in a legal case
- Managing a visa or employment process
3. Durable Power of Attorney
This remains valid even if the principal becomes incapacitated. It’s often used for healthcare or long-term decisions.
4. Property and Real Estate Power of Attorney
Used for buying, selling, or leasing property in Dubai. It must be notarized and registered to be valid.
| Type of Power of Attorney | Scope | Business, banking, and property management |
| General POA | Broad | Business, banking, property management |
| Special POA | Specific | Property sale, visa, legal cases |
| Durable POA | Long-term | Healthcare, elderly care |
| Property POA | Real estate | Buy/sell/rent property |
Legal Requirements to Create a Power of Attorney in Dubai
To issue a Power of Attorney, you must meet certain legal criteria:
Eligibility:
- UAE citizens, residents, and even non-residents can issue a POA.
- The principal must be over 18 years old and mentally capable.
Required Documents:
- Valid Emirates ID or passport
- Proof of residence (if applicable)
- Details of the attorney (agent)
- Draft of the POA document (in Arabic or bilingual)
Process Requirements:
Both parties must sign the POA in front of a Dubai notary public or through online notarization.
How to Make a Power of Attorney in Dubai
Creating a POA in Dubai involves a few key steps:
Step-by-Step Process:
- Draft the POA: Prepare the document in Arabic or a bilingual format, clearly mentioning rights and limitations.
- Notarize at Dubai Courts: Visit the notary public or apply online via the Dubai Courts portal.
- Embassy Attestation (if abroad): For POAs issued outside the UAE, notarize at the UAE Embassy and legalize through MOFA.
- Registration and Stamping: Once notarized, register it with the relevant authorities if required.
- Receive the Final Document: The attested document becomes legally valid for use.
Can Foreigners and Expats Make a Power of Attorney in Dubai?
Yes, Foreigners and expatriates can easily issue a Power of Attorney in Dubai or from abroad.
Process for Expats:
- Draft the POA in both English and Arabic.
- Get it attested by your home country’s notary public.
- Legalize it at the UAE Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in Dubai.
- Use digital notarization services if you’re overseas.
Dubai also offers online POA services through DubaiNow and UAE Pass, making the process faster for expats managing assets remotely.
Validity and Duration of a Power of Attorney
In Dubai, the validity of a Power of Attorney (POA) depends on its purpose and the terms mentioned in the document. Generally, a Property Power of Attorney is valid for around one year, while a Business or General Power of Attorney may remain effective for a longer period if specified. A POA can be renewed or canceled anytime through the Dubai Notary Public, ensuring flexibility for the principal. However, it automatically becomes invalid upon the death or incapacity of either the principal or the appointed agent, as per UAE law.
How to Cancel a Power of Attorney in Dubai
If you wish to revoke an existing POA, follow these steps:
- Prepare a revocation document clearly stating the cancellation.
- Notarize the revocation at the Dubai Courts.
- Notify the agent and any relevant parties (banks, property departments, etc.).
- Register the cancellation with the same authority that issued the original POA.
Always keep proof of cancellation to prevent future misuse.
Benefits of Having a Power of Attorney in Dubai
A properly executed POA provides peace of mind and legal flexibility.
Key Benefits:
- Saves time for busy professionals and investors.
- Enables trusted representation during travel or absence.
- Allows smooth management of property and legal affairs.
- Ensures continuity if the principal cannot act personally.
Risks and Legal Considerations
While a Power of Attorney (POA) provides great convenience, it also carries certain legal risks if not handled carefully. Misuse of authority can occur if the power is granted to someone untrustworthy, so it’s essential to clearly define the scope, duration, and limits of authority in the document. Always seek guidance from a licensed legal firm before issuing a POA to ensure compliance with UAE laws, and make sure the document is officially notarized to make it legally valid and enforceable in Dubai.
Cost of Making a Power of Attorney in Dubai
The cost of preparing and notarizing a Power of Attorney depends on its type and language.
Estimated Costs:
- Notary fees: AED 200 – AED 500
- Translation charges: AED 100 – AED 300
- Embassy or MOFA legalization: AED 150 – AED 500
- Total estimated cost: AED 200 – AED 1,000+
Costs vary if done through online platforms or private legal consultants.
Digital and Online Power of Attorney Services in Dubai
Dubai has made the POA process easier with online services.
Available Platforms:
- Dubai Courts Online POA Portal: Apply, sign, and receive notarized POAs electronically.
- DubaiNow App and UAE Pass: Simplify verification and signing for residents.
Advantages:
- 100% digital, no physical presence required.
- Faster processing for expats and remote clients.
- Secure government-backed systems.
Role of Business Setup and Legal Consultants
Professional consultants can make the entire POA process stress-free.
They assist with:
- Drafting and formatting the POA
- Translation and notarization
- Embassy and MOFA legalization
Ripple Business Setup in Dubai helps individuals and companies prepare valid Power of Attorney documents for business, property, or legal representation, ensuring complete compliance with UAE law.
FAQ
1. Is a POA issued abroad valid in Dubai?
Yes, if it is legalized through the UAE Embassy and the MOFA.
2. How long does it take to issue a POA?
Usually, within one working day if notarized in Dubai.
3. Can a POA be used for business setup?
Yes. Many investors authorize business setup consultants to act on their behalf via POA.
4. What happens if the principal dies?
The POA automatically becomes invalid upon the death or incapacity of the principal.
Conclusion
A Power of Attorney in Dubai is a powerful legal tool that simplifies property, business, and personal transactions. Whether you are a resident or an expat, having a POA ensures that your affairs continue smoothly even in your absence.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed legal professional in Dubai for specific guidance.