Issuing a legal Power of Attorney (POA) through a notary public in the UAE is an essential step to authorize another person to act on your behalf in legal, financial, administrative, or medical matters.

The required documents may vary depending on the type of POA and the applicant category (individual or company).

This article explains the documents required to issue a Power of Attorney before a notary public in the UAE, along with practical tips to ensure smooth notarization and avoid legal complications.

You can also contact us to benefit from our professional services in legal drafting, notarization, and document preparation.

Basic Documents for Individuals (ID – Passport – Personal Information)

If you are applying as an individual, the following documents are generally required:

• Emirates ID: A valid national ID card of the principal (the person granting the POA).

• Passport: Required if the principal is a resident or a non-UAE national.

• Residence visa: For residents in the UAE to confirm legal residency status.

• Personal information form: Includes the full name, address, mobile number, email address, and any additional required details.

Documents Required to Issue a Power of Attorney for Companies

If a company intends to issue a POA, the following documents are typically required:

• Valid trade license or commercial registration of the company.

• ID of the legal representative, such as the company director or authorized signatory.

• Board resolution or official authorization letter confirming the representative’s authority.

• Memorandum of Association (MOA) or company bylaws, if required.

Additional Documents Depending on the Type of POA (Real Estate – Commercial – Medical)

Certain types of POAs require supporting documents related to the specific transaction:

Real Estate Power of Attorney

• Title deed of the property or purchase agreement.

• Municipal certificate or property maps, when applicable.

Commercial Power of Attorney

• Valid business license.

• Documents clarifying the scope of the commercial activity.

Medical Power of Attorney

• Medical report explaining the principal’s health condition if the POA relates to healthcare decisions.

• Written consent from the principal authorizing medical decisions.

Legal Translation Requirements for POAs and Documents

To obtain a certified legal translation of POAs and documents in the UAE, the following requirements must be met:

• Certified legal translator: The translation must be carried out by a translator licensed and approved by the UAE Ministry of Justice.

• Legal accuracy: The translation must precisely reflect the original content and use correct legal terminology.

• Official certification: The translated document must be stamped and signed by the certified translator or translation office.

• Submission of original documents: The original document is provided to the translator, either physically or electronically in some cases, and the certified translation is delivered later in electronic or printed form.

Documents Required When Issuing a POA for Someone Outside the UAE

If the principal or the agent is outside the UAE, the following documents are required:

• The original Power of Attorney issued in the country of residence, attested by that country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

• Passport copy of the principal.

• Consular legalization at the UAE embassy, followed by attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, when required.

Acceptance of Electronic and Paper Documents by UAE Notaries

In the UAE, both electronic and paper submissions may be accepted in accordance with the Federal Decree-Law on Electronic Transactions and Trust Services (2021).

Electronic Submission

• The application and required documents are submitted through the notary public’s online portal.

• A video meeting with the notary public may be conducted to verify identity and information.

• After approval and payment, the notarized document is issued electronically.

Paper Submission

• An appointment may be required before visiting the notary office.

• Original documents must be presented for verification.

• Emirates ID or passport may be requested during the process.

Tips to Ensure Documents Are Accepted Without Delay

To avoid delays or rejection:

• Ensure the Emirates ID or passport is valid.

• Provide certified legal translation for documents written in languages other than Arabic.

• Verify specific notary requirements in your emirate, as procedures may vary slightly.

• If the principal or agent is abroad, ensure proper consular attestation is completed.

Common Document Errors and How to Avoid Them

Common mistakes that may lead to rejection include:

• Submitting expired documents (such as ID or passport).

• Using non-certified translations or translations containing legal errors.

• Failing to provide proof of ownership documents for real estate POAs.

• Missing official signatures or company stamps in commercial POAs.

Comparison Between General and Special Power of Attorney

Type	General Power of Attorney	Special Power of Attorney
Definition	Broad authorization to manage legal and financial matters.	Limited authorization for a specific task or transaction.
Documents	Principal’s ID or passport, personal information.	Principal’s ID or passport plus documents related to the specific task (contracts, property documents, medical reports, etc.).
Scope	Comprehensive management of legal, financial, or commercial matters.	Execution of a specific action such as selling property or signing a contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What documents are required to issue a Power of Attorney before a notary public?
   Typically, the principal’s Emirates ID or passport is required, along with additional documents depending on the type of POA, such as property documents or medical reports.
2. Is the original ID required or only a copy?
   Both are usually required. The original ID is used for verification, while the copy is kept in the transaction records.
3. What documents are required for a company Power of Attorney in the UAE?
   Required documents include the company’s trade license, the legal representative’s ID, and an authorization or board resolution.
4. Is legal translation mandatory for documents?
   Yes. If documents are not in Arabic, they must be translated by a certified legal translator.
5. Can a passport be used instead of an Emirates ID?
   Yes. A passport may be used if the principal or agent is a non-UAE national or a resident.
6. What documents are required if the POA is issued for someone outside the UAE?
   The original POA must be attested by the foreign country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE embassy, along with a passport copy.

Preparing the required documents for issuing a legal Power of Attorney is a crucial step to ensure the POA is legally valid and accepted by the UAE notary public. By submitting the correct documentation, obtaining certified translations, and ensuring proper attestation, you can avoid delays or rejection.

If you need assistance preparing, drafting, translating, or notarizing your Power of Attorney, contact us today to receive professional legal support and ensure a smooth and secure process.