safeledger logo

Traveling with Kids? Secure a Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE

Reading Time

6 min read

Traveling with Kids? Secure a  Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE

Table of Contents

What Is a Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE?

A Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE is a legal document that empowers a trusted adult—like a relative or guardian—to travel with your child when you can’t

It differs from a child travel consent letter, which is often informal and doesn’t hold legal weight in every jurisdiction. The POA, on the other hand, is notarized and can be used internationally.

It typically includes:

  • Names and passport details of child and guardian
  • Travel dates and destination
  • Specific permissions (medical, accommodation, etc.)
  • Signature of parent(s) with attestation

Fact: According to UAE immigration law, minors travelling with someone other than their parents must provide documentation of consent, failing which entry or exit may be denied.

Why Is a Minor Travel POA Essential for Traveling in and out of the UAE?

Travelling without a parent isn’t always straightforward. Here’s why a minor travel POA UAE is essential:

  • UAE immigration often requires legal proof of authorization.
  • Many airlines demand documented proof when a child is flying with a third party.
  • Embassies may refuse visa issuance without proper authorization.

Example: In 2023, a UAE resident was denied boarding for her child flying with a nanny due to the absence of a notarized POA—despite having a consent letter.

A child travel POA acts as a travel authorization for minors UAE, especially critical for countries with strict border controls.

Who Can Be Appointed in a Child Travel POA?

You have flexibility, but the appointed person should be someone trustworthy and ideally close to the child.

  • Relatives: Grandparents, uncles, or aunts
  • Legal Guardians: Appointed by the court
  • Family Friends: Trusted individuals known to the child

The authorization can be similar to an authorization letter for child to travel with grandparents but with more legal weight due to notarization.

Fact: Emirates Airlines and Etihad Airways recommend notarized documents for minors travelling without both parents.

When Do You Need a  Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE?

Not all travel requires one—but these common situations do:

  • Solo travel with one parent
  • Travel with grandparents or relatives
  • Overseas school trips
  • Immigration applications where both parents’ presence is required

Example: For a school competition in Germany, several Dubai schools required students travelling with staff to submit notarized POAs from both parents.

For any of the above, having a child travel consent form UAE or ideally, a notarized POA is a must.

Documents Required for a Child Traveling Without Parents

Here’s your essential checklist:

  • Passport copies of child and parent(s)
  • Passport copy of the appointed guardian
  • Emirates ID (if available)
  • Birth certificate of child
  • Travel itinerary
  • Any court orders (if applicable)

Tip: The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs may require Arabic translations for some documents before attestation.

Still wondering, “Can a child travel without parents“? Yes, but only with the right paperwork- Safe Ledger ensures it’s handled!

How to Draft a Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE

Drafting a legally strong POA involves more than filling out a form.

Step-by-step Guide:

  1. Identify the parties: Include legal names and contact details of the parent(s) and the appointed guardian.
  2. Mention travel details: Clearly state destination countries, duration of travel, and the purpose (vacation, education, etc.).
  3. Specify responsibilities: Outline what the guardian is allowed to handle—medical decisions, school matters, or financial needs.
  4. Add clauses: Define limitations—what the agent can and cannot do while the child is abroad.
  5. Sign and notarize: Have the POA legally notarized in the UAE for recognition locally and internationally.

Example: A couple residing in Abu Dhabi drafted a POA allowing their sister to accompany their child to Canada for a summer exchange program. The POA outlined medical consent, school-related permissions, and travel duration. After notarization, the document was accepted without issues at both UAE and Canadian immigration checkpoints.

Need help? SafeLedger is always at your assistance, our Personal Power of Attorney Services ensure everything is watertight!

Notarization & Attestation of  Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE

For a Child Travel POA to be accepted across borders, it must be notarized and, in many cases, attested.

In UAE:

  • Notarization: This can be done through the Dubai Notary Public or the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department.
  • Attestation: Required if POA is for international travel—by MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) + embassy attestation.

Don’t Delay, Delegate Today! Get Your POA in Dubai & Abu Dhabi Handled Now!

Is the  Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE Valid for International Travel?

Yes, but attestation is mandatory if used outside the UAE. You should:

  • Translate to the language of the destination country (if needed)
  • Get the POA legalized by MOFA and the receiving country’s embassy

Fact: Over 50 countries accept a UAE-attested POA without additional legalization when processed correctly.

The Child Travel POA should be accepted in most countries when these steps are followed.

Validity Period & Renewal of the Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE

  • Validity: Usually set for the travel duration, but can extend up to 1 year.
  • Renewal: Redraft and re-notarize when it expires. Always keep a digital copy.

It’s advisable to mention exact dates to avoid misuse.

Example: A family renewed their POA every summer before sending their child to a month-long UK language camp.

Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE vs. Child Travel Consent Letter: What’s the Difference?

  • Consent Letter: Simple permission, not always legally valid.
  • Child Travel POA: Notarized, legally recognized internationally, and offers broader authority.

Always go for a POA when unsure. It’s stronger and safer.

How Safe Ledger Can Help You Draft a Legally Valid POA

With Safe Ledger, you’re not just getting a document—you’re getting peace of mind.

  • Custom drafting by legal professionals
  • Transparent pricing
  • Express notarization & attestation services
  • Doorstep document delivery (where available)

Fact: Safe Ledger has assisted 1,000+ families in the UAE with hassle-free POA drafting and legal services.

Want a quick turnaround? Get your Child Travel POA drafted today with Safe Ledger.

Conclusion

A Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE isn’t just a document—it’s your child’s legal passport to a smooth journey. From protecting your child from airport delays to ensuring compliance with immigration rules, a POA is essential for hassle-free travel.

Don’t leave it to chance. Contact Safe Ledger today and travel worry-free!

Frequently Asked Questions


1. What information must be included in a Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE?

A  Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE should include the full names and passport details of the child, both parents (if applicable), and the appointed guardian. It must clearly state the travel dates, destination, and specific authorities granted—such as medical or educational decisions.

2. Is one parent’s signature enough for the POA?

While one parent's signature may be accepted for certain domestic travels, international travel from the UAE typically requires signatures from both parents to comply with immigration and airline requirements. This ensures the minor travel POA UAE is valid and eliminates guardianship disputes.

3. How many copies of the POA should I keep while travelling?

It is recommended to carry at least 3 notarized copies of the Child Travel POA—one for airport authorities, one for the guardian, and one as a backup. Also, keeping a digital version securely stored is advisable, especially for emergencies.

4. What is the typical processing time for notarization in the UAE?

Notarization of a Power of Attorney in UAE usually takes 1-2 business days, depending on the emirate and documentation completeness. If attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and embassies is also needed, the process can extend to 3-5 working days.

5. Are POAs created in other countries valid in the UAE?

POAs from other countries can be valid in the UAE only after proper legalization. This includes notarization in the issuing country, attestation by the UAE embassy abroad, and final verification by MOFA in the UAE. For immigration or court-related matters, a  Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE executed locally is generally preferred.

6. Is a digital version of the POA acceptable during travel?

No. A printed, notarized hard copy is required at immigration counters. However, keeping a scanned version of the Child Travel POA as a backup is wise, especially in case of lost or damaged documents during travel.

7. What should I do if the travel plans change after the POA is notarized?

If travel dates, destination, or guardian details change, the existing Child Travel POA becomes invalid. In such cases, a new notarized POA must be drafted and attested, especially for cross-border compliance.

8. Are there any restrictions on who can act as the child’s guardian in the POA?

Yes. The appointed guardian must be an adult with legal capacity, preferably someone known and trusted by the family—such as a grandparent, relative, or legal guardian. Immigration officials often ask for ID proof, so details must match those in the authorization letter for child to travel with grandparents or guardians.

9. Does a notarized POA need to be translated into Arabic?

If the POA is in English and is to be used within the UAE, it must be translated into Arabic by a certified translator before notarization. For international use, it should be in the language accepted by the destination country and legalized through UAE authorities.

10. How can I cancel a Child Travel POA before its expiry?

To revoke a Child Travel POA, a formal revocation document must be drafted and notarized. Safe Ledger can help you prepare a revocation of Power of Attorney in UAE, which you should also share with any authorities or parties relying on the original POA.

11. Is there a specific template I should follow?

There is no one-size-fits-all template, as each  Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE must be tailored to your child’s travel needs. However, Safe Ledger FZCO offers professionally drafted formats that comply with UAE legal norms and are accepted by international authorities.

12. Does each trip require a new POA?

Yes, unless the POA is drafted for multiple destinations and extended travel periods, it’s advisable to create a new Special Power of Attorney in UAE for each international trip. This avoids confusion and ensures the guardian’s authority is aligned with travel purposes.

13. Will the POA be accepted at all UAE airports?

Yes, as long as the Child Travel POA is properly drafted, notarized, and translated (if required), it is recognized at all major UAE airports including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Always keep extra copies and supporting documents like birth certificates and passports.

14. What are the benefits of choosing Safe Ledger FZCO over a freelance legal consultant?

  • Legally verified and up-to-date Power of Attorney templates 
  • Fast-tracked notarization and attestation services across UAE\n- Clear, fixed pricing without hidden charges 
  • Full compliance with UAE and international travel norms\n\nChoose SafeLedger for  Child Travel Power of Attorney in UAE services and travel stress-free knowing your paperwork is in expert hands.

Just Drop Your Info Below We’ll Get In Touch With You

Joel Dsouza

About the Author

Joel Dsouza

Joel Dsouza is a Chartered Accountant and compliance specialist with extensive experience advising over 1,000 startups and SMEs on company registration, tax structuring, and regulatory compliance. As a member of ICAI and Co-Founder of Safe Ledger, Joel combines his deep financial expertise with a global perspective to help entrepreneurs navigate complex business environments. Focused on the UAE market, he is dedicated to empowering international and local business owners with clear, practical guidance on company setup, tax optimization, and ongoing compliance making him a trusted advisor for businesses aiming to succeed in the dynamic UAE economy.

Related Posts

View All

Don't miss our daily updates

Stay updated with the latest news, tips, and exclusive offers. Subscribe to our newsletter!

WhatsApp Icon