Power of Attorney in Dubai – Complete Guide for Expats

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power of attorney in dubai
Living in Dubai offers expats excellent career and lifestyle opportunities, but it also comes with practical legal responsibilities. Many expats travel frequently, relocate between countries, or manage assets and obligations across borders.
In such situations, it is not always possible to be physically present to sign documents, attend government offices, or manage urgent matters. This is where a Power of Attorney (POA) becomes an essential legal tool.
This guide explains what a Power of Attorney is, why it is important, and how it works under UAE law, in clear and simple terms.

What is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows one person (the principal) to authorise another person (the agent or attorney-in-fact) to act on their behalf.
The authority granted can be:
  • Broad or limited
  • Temporary or ongoing
  • Restricted to specific tasks
Once properly executed, the agent can legally make decisions or complete transactions as if the principal were acting personally.

Why is a Power of Attorney important in Dubai?

A Power of Attorney is particularly important for expats because UAE procedures often require formal authorisation.
Common reasons expats need a POA include:
  • Being outside the UAE
  • Managing property or bank matters remotely
  • Handling business or corporate tasks
  • Dealing with government authorities
  • Managing urgent matters during illness or absence
Without a valid POA, even close family members may not be allowed to act on your behalf.

How Power of Attorney works under UAE Law?

In the UAE, Powers of Attorney are governed by local laws and must meet specific legal requirements to be valid. Key points:
  • POAs must be clear, specific, and properly drafted
  • They usually need to be notarised
  • Authorities and banks only accept POAs that meet UAE legal standards
Improperly drafted POAs are often rejected, causing delays and frustration.

Types of Power of Attorney in Dubai

1. General Power of Attorney

A General POA gives broad authority, which may include:
  • Managing property
  • Handling banking matters
  • Representing the principal before authorities
Because of its wide scope, it should be granted only to someone you trust completely.

2. Special (Limited) Power of Attorney

A Special POA authorises the agent to perform specific tasks only, such as:
  • Selling a particular property
  • Representing you in a single transaction
  • Collecting documents
This is the most commonly used POA type for expats.

3. Property Power of Attorney

Used for:
  • Buying or selling real estate
  • Registering property
  • Managing tenancy matters
Property POAs must be very precise, as land departments apply strict scrutiny.

4. Business or Corporate Power of Attorney

Used by:
  • Company owners
  • Partners
  • Directors
This POA allows agents to sign contracts, represent the company, or complete regulatory filings.

Who can be appointed as an Attorney?

You can appoint:
  • A spouse
  • A trusted family member
  • A business partner
  • A professional advisor
The key requirement is trust and reliability, as the agent’s actions are legally binding on you.

How to draft a valid Power of Attorney in Dubai?

Step 1: Define the Scope Clearly

The POA must clearly state:
  • What the agent can do
  • Any limitations or conditions
  • Whether the POA is time-bound
Vague wording often leads to rejection.

Step 2: Draft the POA in the Correct Format

POAs used in the UAE:
  • Are usually bilingual (Arabic is mandatory)
  • Must follow UAE legal terminology
Using foreign templates is a common mistake.

Step 3: Notarisation

Most POAs must be:
  • Notarised by a UAE Notary Public, or
  • Executed abroad and then attested and legalised for UAE use
Without notarisation, the POA is generally invalid.

Using a Power of Attorney issued outside the UAE

If you are outside the UAE:
  • The POA must be notarised in your home country
  • Attested by relevant authorities
  • Legalised for use in the UAE
This process ensures the document is recognised locally.

Risks of using an improper or overly broad POA

Granting a POA without proper advice can lead to:
  • Misuse of authority
  • Financial loss
  • Legal disputes
  • Difficulty revoking the POA
This is why professional drafting is strongly recommended.

Can a Power of Attorney be revoked?

Yes. A POA can usually be:
  • Revoked at any time by the principal
  • Automatically terminated upon death (in most cases)
Revocation should also be properly documented and, where necessary, notified to relevant parties.

FAQs - Power of Attorney in Dubai

1. Is a Power of Attorney legally valid in Dubai?

Yes, if it meets UAE legal and notarisation requirements.

2. Can I use a foreign POA in Dubai?

Yes, but it must be properly attested and legalised.

3. Is Arabic mandatory in a POA?

Yes. Arabic is required for use before UAE authorities.

4. Can a POA be limited to one task?

Yes. Special POAs are commonly used for this purpose.

5. Does a POA continue after death?

Generally no. Most POAs end upon the principal’s death.

6. Should I use a lawyer to draft a POA?

Yes. This helps ensure validity and avoids costly mistakes.

Conclusion

Power of Attorney in Dubai – Complete Guide for Expats highlights a simple truth: A Power of Attorney is not just a convenience, it is a critical legal safeguard.
For expats managing assets, businesses, or responsibilities in the UAE, a properly drafted POA:
  • Saves time
  • Prevents delays
  • Ensures continuity
  • Protects your interests
When drafted correctly, it provides peace of mind whether you are in Dubai or abroad.
Speak to our legal experts to draft a valid Power of Attorney in Dubai.

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