Power of Attorney in the UAE 2025 – Complete Guide for Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi

A Power of Attorney (POA) is an essential legal tool that allows an individual or company to authorize another person to act on their behalf. In the UAE, POAs are widely used for property transactions, banking matters, corporate management, and personal legal issues. Whether you are in Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi, understanding the legal framework, types, and proper execution of a POA is crucial to ensure your interests are fully protected.

At Dewey & LeBoeuf, our UAE legal team helps individuals and companies draft, notarize, and register Power of Attorney documents efficiently, providing peace of mind and compliance with UAE laws.

Why You Need a Power of Attorney in the UAE

POAs are highly practical in the UAE due to the country’s fast-paced business and legal environment. Some common reasons to use a POA in the UAE include:

• Authorizing someone to handle property sales or purchases in Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi.
• Enabling corporate representatives to manage company matters without the physical presence of the owner.
• Conducting banking transactions or signing contracts on your behalf.
• Handling family or personal legal matters when you are overseas.

Having a valid POA in the UAE ensures that your agent can act legally on your behalf and protects you from potential disputes or fraud.

Types of Power of Attorney in the UAE

The UAE recognizes several types of POA, each serving different legal purposes. Choosing the correct type is critical.

General Power of Attorney

A general POA in the UAE allows the agent to handle a broad range of activities, including business transactions, banking, and legal representation. It is commonly used by companies in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi when owners cannot be present.

Special or Limited Power of Attorney

A limited POA in the UAE is restricted to specific tasks, such as signing a property sale agreement or managing a bank account. This type is highly recommended when you want to limit your agent’s authority for security and control.

Financial Power of Attorney

This type specifically authorizes your agent to manage financial matters, including investments, bank accounts, and business payments. It is often used by expatriates in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Medical Power of Attorney

Although less common in the UAE, medical POAs allow an agent to make healthcare decisions if the principal cannot do so themselves.

Legal Requirements for a Power of Attorney in the UAE

The UAE has specific requirements to ensure that a POA is valid and enforceable. These requirements vary slightly by emirate, so it is important to comply with local rules in Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi.

1. Eligibility of Principal and Agent

• The principal must be legally competent and at least 21 years old.
• The agent must be trustworthy and capable of performing the assigned duties.

2. Written Document

• A POA in the UAE must be drafted in writing and clearly state the powers granted.
• Both Arabic and English versions may be required depending on the use.

3. Notarization

• The POA must be notarized at a UAE notary public.
• Notarization confirms the identities of the principal and agent and ensures authenticity.

4. Registration (Optional but Recommended)

• Certain POAs, especially those involving property transactions in Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi, must be registered with the relevant authorities to be legally effective.

5. Translation and Legalization for Foreign Principals

• Non-UAE residents must have their POA notarized in their home country and attested by UAE embassies before it is recognized in the UAE.
• Dewey & LeBoeuf assists with the complete attestation and legalization process, ensuring smooth acceptance in any UAE emirate.

Step-by-Step Process to Create a Power of Attorney in the UAE

Creating a POA in the UAE involves several key steps. Engaging a qualified legal team makes this process seamless and reduces risks of errors or delays.

Step 1: Determine the Type and Scope

Decide whether you need a general, special, or financial POA. Clearly outline the powers your agent will hold. At Dewey & LeBoeuf, we help clients draft precise clauses tailored to their needs in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi.

Step 2: Draft the Document

• Include the names, addresses, and Emirates ID or passport numbers of the principal and agent.
• Specify the powers granted and the duration of authority.
• Include any restrictions or special conditions.

Step 3: Notarization

• Visit a UAE notary public with your agent.
• Provide original identification documents.
• The notary will verify identities and certify the document.

Step 4: Registration (If Required)

• For property transactions in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, submit the notarized POA to the relevant Land Department.
• For company matters, register with the Department of Economic Development (DED) or the Free Zone authority if applicable.

Step 5: Keep Copies

• Always keep a certified copy with your legal advisor and provide a copy to the agent.
• Ensure your agent has access to the original document when executing legal or financial actions.

Costs of Power of Attorney in the UAE

The cost of a POA depends on its type, purpose, and whether registration is required. Typical expenses include:

• Notary public fees: AED 200–500 per document
• Registration fees (if required): AED 500–1,000 depending on property or corporate matters
• Legal service fees: AED 2,000–5,000 for drafting, attestation, and filing assistance

Engaging a professional firm like Dewey & LeBoeuf ensures your POA is valid, secure, and enforceable across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi, avoiding costly mistakes.

Why Hire Dewey & LeBoeuf for Your Power of Attorney

• Expert drafting and review to minimize legal risks.
• Assistance with notarization and government registration in all major UAE cities.
• Full support for foreign principals, including document legalization and embassy attestation.
• Guidance on best practices for corporate, financial, or property-related POAs.

Our legal team ensures that your POA is enforceable, compliant, and effective, giving you confidence that your affairs are properly managed even if you are abroad.

Practical Tips for UAE POAs

1. Always define the scope and limitations clearly to prevent misuse.
2. Use trusted agents who understand UAE laws and procedures.
3. Ensure all notarization and registration steps are completed to avoid invalidation.
4. Keep your POA updated if circumstances change, such as property ownership, corporate structure, or residency status.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Drafting ambiguous or incomplete POAs.
• Using an untrustworthy agent.
• Skipping notarization or registration steps.
• Failing to comply with foreign principal document requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

A Power of Attorney is a powerful legal tool that allows individuals and businesses to manage their affairs efficiently in the UAE. Whether in Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi, having a correctly drafted, notarized, and registered POA protects your interests and ensures smooth operations.

At Dewey & LeBoeuf, we specialize in helping clients prepare POAs tailored to their needs. From drafting and notarization to registration and attestation, our UAE legal team ensures that your document is fully compliant, enforceable, and secure.

Contact our UAE office today to create your Power of Attorney safely and efficiently with expert legal support.