Documents Required for Power of Attorney in Dubai

Life in Dubai moves fast. Whether you’re an expat, investor, or business owner, sometimes you need someone you trust to handle important matters when you can’t be there in person. That’s where a Power of Attorney (POA) comes in—it’s a legal document that lets you give someone the authority to act on your behalf.

The good news? In Dubai, you can now create a Power of Attorney document online through the Dubai Courts Smart Notary System. No need to stand in long queues or visit a notary in person. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the process, costs, and the documents needed for a Power of Attorney in the UAE, as well as how to cancel a Power of Attorney in Dubai if needed.

A Power of Attorney is a legal paper that allows you (the “grantor”) to give another person (the “attorney” or “agent”) permission to handle specific tasks for you.
This could include:

• Selling or buying property

• Managing a company

• Registering or selling a car

• Handling marriage, inheritance, or legal matters

Dubai offers a Fast-Track Power of Attorney service, which you can complete entirely online. You can also check how long a Power of Attorney is valid to ensure your authorization remains effective.

Why it’s great:

• Processed in 1–3 working days

• No physical visit required

• Legally recognized across the UAE

Did you know? In 2024, more than 80,000 POAs were issued online in Dubai—proof that more people are going paperless. For a detailed guide you can click here: What is Power of Attorney

Key Differences: Fast-Track Power of Attorney vs. Regular POA

Understanding the differences between Fast-Track and Regular POA helps you choose the right option based on your urgency, convenience, and processing needs.

Example: A UK-based investor used Fast-Track Power of Attorney to empower a broker to complete a property deal in Dubai within 48 hours—entirely online.

A Power of Attorney in Dubai can be applied for by individuals or entities who need to authorize someone to act on their behalf in various legal, business, or personal matters. Here is the eligibility criteria:

• UAE residents and citizens
  
• Non-residents conducting business or holding assets in Dubai
  
• Company owners authorizing directors or managers
  
• Property or vehicle owners needing representation
  
• Individuals handling marriage, inheritance, or legal matters

POAs are commonly used for: authorizing someone to complete a property registration, manage a business transaction, transfer vehicle ownership, or represent you in court.

In Dubai, various types of Power of Attorney (POA) are available to suit different legal, business, and personal needs. Here’s an overview of the most commonly used POAs in Dubai:

• General POA – Grants wide legal authority across matters
• Special POA – Limited to a specific task or transaction
• Property POA – For buying, selling, or leasing real estate
• Company POA – Allows someone to represent a business legally
• Vehicle POA – Required for vehicle registration or transfer
• Marriage POA – Authorizes marriage-related proceedings
• Share Sale POA – Used for company share transactions

All Fast-Track Power of Attorneys are authenticated by the Dubai Courts Smart Electronic Notary, under the Smart Government initiative. The system is available 24/7 and supports full online notarization using video verification and digital signature.

Certain types of Power of Attorney can be transferred to another person under specific conditions. Learn more about whether a Power of Attorney can be transferred in Dubai.

The documents needed for Power of Attorney depends on the type you are applying for. Below is a detailed breakdown for each type, including explanations and compliance notes.

1. General Power of Attorney

A General Power of Attorney is used for broad legal authority covering multiple activities like signing contracts, handling bank accounts, or making general decisions.

Required Documents:

• Passport Copy or Emirates ID (of grantor and attorney): For identity verification.
  
• Personal Details: Full name, nationality, and address of both parties.
  
• Visa Page (for residents): To prove legal residency in the UAE.

2. Company Power of Attorney

Enables an individual to act on behalf of a company in business transactions, license renewals, legal representation, and banking.

Required Documents:

• Trade License Copy: Verifies the company’s legal status in the UAE.
  
• Memorandum of Association (MOA): Confirms company structure and roles.
  
• Board Resolution (if applicable): Required when more than one director or shareholder must approve the POA.Passport/Emirates ID of Authorized Signatory: To confirm authorization authority.

3. Property POA

A Property Power of Attorney is used for buying, selling, leasing, or managing real estate on behalf of the owner.

Required Documents:

• Title Deed: Proof of property ownership.
  
• Dubai Land Department (DLD) Transaction Number: For registered or pending transactions.
  
• Passport Copy of Grantor and Attorney.

4. Vehicle POA

Vehicle Power of Attorney enables someone to register, sell, export, or manage your vehicle.

Required Documents:

• Mulkiya (Vehicle Registration Card): Shows ownership details.
  
• Vehicle Insurance Document: Optional but sometimes required.
  
• Passport/Emirates ID of the Grantor and Attorney.

5. Marriage POA

A Marriage Power of Attorney is used when one party cannot be physically present during marriage formalities, typically involving documentation submission or attestation.

Required Documents:

• Marriage Certificate or Contract: Proof of marital relationship.
  
• Passports of Both Spouses: To verify identities.
  
• Residence Visa (if applicable): For local processing.

6. Share Sale POA

A Share Sale Power Of Attorney authorizes someone to sell or transfer company shares on your behalf—commonly used during share sales, acquisitions, or shareholder transitions.

Required Documents:

• Share Sale Agreement: Outlines the agreed sale terms and details.
  
• Shareholder Register: Lists the current shareholders and their respective shares.
  
• Company Trade License: Confirms the company’s legal status and operations.
  
• Board Resolution (if transferring shares on behalf of another shareholder): Required for authorization if the transfer involves multiple parties or is conducted by a representative.

Additional Requirements for All POA Types (if documents are issued outside UAE):

• Attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the issuing country.
  
• Legalization by the UAE Embassy in that country.
  
• Certified Arabic Translation by a translator recognized by the UAE Ministry of Justice.

Note: Failure to provide proper attestation and translation may lead to rejection by Dubai Courts’ Smart Notary.

• Original Emirates ID or passport
  
• Typed POA in Arabic (or certified translation)
  
• Two passport-sized photos
  
• Printed supporting documents
  
• Notary appointment confirmation

Manual POA must be submitted physically at Dubai Courts’ notary office in Al Garhoud.

Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining a Fast-Track Power of Attorney in Dubai Online: 

• Step 1: Register at dc.gov.ae or UAE Pass
• Create an account on the Dubai Courts portal or use the UAE Pass app for faster access to government services.
• Step 2: Select “Agencies” or “Powers of Attorney”
• Choose the type of POA you need (e.g., General POA, Property POA, Vehicle POA).
• Step 3: Fill in Applicant and Agent Details
• Enter personal information for both the applicant and agent (name, nationality, contact info).
• Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
• Upload required documents (e.g., passport, ID, proof of authority) in PDF format.
• Step 5: Pay Fees via E-payment
• Pay government fees and service charges securely online. Fee varies based on POA type.
• Step 6: Choose Between Personal Appearance or Video Call Verification
• Verify identities either in person or through a video call.
• Step 7: Complete OTP Verification
• Enter the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number for security.
• Step 8: Notary Officer Reviews and Approves
• Dubai Courts’ notary officer reviews your application for completeness and compliance.
• Step 9: Sign Digitally Using OTP
• Sign the document digitally using another OTP.
• Step 10: Receive the Final POA via Email

The certified POA is sent to your email for download or print.

Extra Steps for Foreign Documents

If any of your documents were issued outside the UAE, you’ll also need:

• Attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the country of origin

• Legalization by the UAE Embassy in that country

• Certified Arabic Translation approved by the UAE Ministry of Justice

Tip: All steps can be monitored in real-time via the Smart Notary portal.

Also Read: How to Cancel a Power of Attorney in Dubai

The Power of Attorney Dubai cost varies according to the type of POA. The following discusses government fees, translation, and any additional legal consultation charges:

• Government Fees: Typically start at AED 100, but vary based on the type of POA (e.g., general, property, vehicle).
  • General POA: AED 300–500
    
  • Special POA: AED 300–500
    
  • Property POA: AED 500–700
    
  • Company POA: AED 500–700
    
  • Vehicle POA: AED 300–450
    
  • Marriage POA: AED 300–500
    
  • Share Purchase POA: AED 500–700

Other possible costs:

• Translation: AED 150–250 if documents need Arabic translation

• Legal Consultation: Varies from AED 500 to AED 2,000, depending on complexity and urgency.

• Urgent Service: Extra charges for same-day or express processing 
  

• Additional Costs: Extra charges may apply for expedited services or special legal assistance.

Costs can fluctuate based on the specific POA type and the urgency of processing. 

For a precise estimate, consult a legal service provider like Safe Ledger from Personal Power of Attorney to Company Power of Attorney services!

The processing times can vary based on factors such as the type of POA, the complexity of the documents, and the service provider’s workload. Here are a few ways through which you can reduce processing time: 

• Dubai Courts’ Smart Notary: The e-notarization process typically takes 2–3 working days after the finalization of the POA.
  
• Traditional Notary Services: The notarization process usually takes between 25 to 50 minutes, depending on the time of day and the notary’s workload.
  
• Urgent Legal Firms: Processing times can be as fast as 1 hour; however, premium charges apply for expedited services.​

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to consult directly with the chosen service provider or the relevant official authority. 

Don’t Tet Time Slip Away! Secure Your Safe Ledger Quote Now- Price and Time Aligned For Your Success!

Safe Ledger simplifies the entire Power of Attorney process by providing expert assistance:

• Prepares POA drafts in Arabic and English
  
• Ensures certified translation compliance
  
• Handles all uploads and portal formalities
  
• Coordinates notary verification appointments
  
• Manages OTP signing and final delivery

Ready to streamline your Power of Attorney process? Contact Safe Ledger today for expert assistance and ensure a fast, secure, and hassle-free experience!

Conclusion

A Power of Attorney document is the fastest and safest way to let someone handle your important matters in Dubai. By preparing the documents required for Power of Attorney in advance, you can avoid delays and focus on what matters most—your business, investments, or personal life.

Whether you’re abroad or simply too busy, Safe Ledger can guide you through every step for a smooth, stress-free process.

Contact Safe Ledger today and get your Power of Attorney in Dubai done quickly and securely.