In the UAE, a Power of Attorney is not just a formality, it is a powerful legal instrument. Whether you are travelling, unwell, managing property, or running a business, the type of POA you choose determines how much authority you give and how safely your interests are protected.
For expats living in Dubai, misunderstandings around General vs Special Power of Attorney are common and can lead to rejected documents, delays, or even misuse of authority.
This guide explains the different types of Power of Attorney in the UAE, with a clear focus on General POA vs Special POA, so you can make an informed decision.
What is a Power of Attorney in the UAE? (Quick Recap)
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document where:
- One person (the principal) authorises
- Another person (the agent or attorney)
- To act on their behalf
Main types of Power of Attorney in the UAE
While POAs can be customised in many ways, they generally fall into two main categories:
- General Power of Attorney
- Special (Limited) Power of Attorney
What is a General Power of Attorney?
A General Power of Attorney (GPOA) grants broad and wide-ranging authority to the agent.
What a General POA typically allows
Depending on how it is drafted, a General POA may allow the agent to:
- Manage bank accounts
- Buy or sell property
- Sign contracts
- Represent the principal before authorities
- Handle financial and legal matters
When is a General POA used?
A General POA may be suitable when:
- The principal is unavailable for a long period
- There is absolute trust in the agent
- Ongoing management of multiple matters is required
Risks of a General Power of Attorney
A General POA carries higher risk because:
- Authority is very broad
- Misuse can be difficult to control
- Revocation may not be immediate in practice
What is a Special (Limited) Power of Attorney?
A Special Power of Attorney (SPOA) authorises the agent to perform specific, clearly defined tasks only.
Common uses of a Special POA
Special POAs are commonly used for:
- Selling or buying a specific property
- Representing the principal in one transaction
- Signing a particular contract
- Collecting documents or certificates
Why Special POAs are preferred in the UAE
Special POAs are:
- Safer
- More precise
- More easily accepted by authorities and banks
Other common types of POA in the UAE
Property Power of Attorney
A type of Special POA used for:
- Buying or selling real estate
- Property registration
- Tenancy matters
Business or Corporate Power of Attorney
Used by:
- Company owners
- Directors
- Partners
- Signing contracts
- Dealing with regulators
- Managing operations
How UAE Law treats POAs
Under UAE law:
- POAs must be clear and specific
- Arabic language is mandatory (or bilingual with Arabic prevailing)
- POAs must be notarised
- Vague wording
- Overly broad powers
- Foreign templates not adapted to UAE requirements
Which POA should you choose?
You should consider:
- Purpose: One task or ongoing authority?
- Duration: Short-term or long-term?
- Risk tolerance: How much authority are you comfortable granting?
Common mistakes when choosing a POA
- Using a General POA when a Special POA would suffice
- Copying templates from other countries
- Granting unnecessary powers
- Not considering future misuse
FAQs - Types of Power of Attorney in UAE
1. Is a General POA better than a Special POA?
Not necessarily. Special POAs are often safer and more effective.
2. Can a POA be limited to one transaction?
Yes. This is the most common use of a Special POA.
3. Are General POAs accepted by banks in the UAE?
Some banks restrict or refuse them due to risk.
4. Can I revoke a POA later?
Yes, but proper legal steps must be followed.
5. Is notarisation mandatory?
Yes. A POA must be notarised to be valid.
6. Should I get legal advice before drafting a POA?
Yes. Incorrect drafting can render a POA unusable.
Conclusion
Types of Power of Attorney in UAE – General vs Special POA highlights one clear takeaway:
For most expats and residents, a well-drafted Special Power of Attorney provides:
- Protection
- Clarity
- Legal acceptance
- Peace of mind