Exploring Different Types of Power of Attorney in the UAE

Powers of attorney hold immense importance in legal representation and transactions within the UAE. Trusted individuals are often granted these powers by individuals and companies, enabling them to act on their behalf. These powers are categorized into various types, each serving a specific purpose and having its own limitations. In this article, we will explore the different types of powers of attorney in the UAE and delve into their significance.

A power of attorney (POA) is a legally binding document that confers the authority to act on behalf of another individual or entity. It empowers the designated person to make decisions and take actions in accordance with the best interests and wishes of the grantor.

Types of Power of Attorney in the UAE

In the UAE, individuals and companies utilize two types of powers of attorney. These legal instruments grant authority and responsibility in a variety of situations.

  • General power of attorney
  • Special power of attorney

For Individuals:

General Power of Attorney (GPOA)

A General Power of Attorney bestows upon the agent extensive authority to act on behalf of the principal in various domains, encompassing corporate matters, financial dealings, legal affairs, and personal matters. It is typically employed when the principal is unable to personally tend to their own personal or business affairs.

A General Power of Attorney grants the designated agent the authority to undertake a range of actions, including the management of real estate, representation of the principal before government departments, incorporation of legal entities, contract signing, vehicle purchases, and handling legal affairs. It is crucial to note, however, that while a General POA bestows extensive powers, it also carries a heightened risk of potential misuse or exploitation.

Special Power of Attorney (SPOA)

A special power of attorney serves specific purposes and grants the agent the authority to carry out particular tasks on behalf of the principal. It is commonly utilized when the principal requires representation in activities like property transactions, company management, corporate banking, or contract signing. Unlike a general power of attorney, an SPOA has limited scope, authorizing the agent to act solely within the defined task or undertaking. Some frequently used SPOAs include:

  • Power of Attorney for Real Estate

In Dubai, a Real Estate Power of Attorney (POA) empowers a designated individual to act as your authorized representative for real estate matters. This legal document grants the agent the authority to perform various tasks on your behalf, including property transactions, contract signing, lease management, and other related activities. It ensures efficient and seamless handling of your real estate affairs.

A Power of Attorney for Vehicle allows you to designate someone to handle various transactions related to your vehicle on your behalf. This legal document is commonly used to grant another person the authority to perform tasks such as selling or purchasing a vehicle, registering or renewing registration, maintaining the vehicle, obtaining a plate number, or exporting the vehicle. Various types of Vehicle POAs are frequently utilized for these purposes.

An heir can grant a Power of Attorney for Inheritance to an individual or law firm, empowering them to act on behalf of the heirs in UAE. This authority extends to representing the heirs before the competent authorities, including courts, to initiate and conclude probate proceedings. Additionally, the POA for Inheritance enables the holder to obtain a succession certificate and distribution order.

  • Power of Attorney for Marriage

A Power of Attorney for marriage grants authority to someone else to act as a proxy on behalf of the bride’s father (or legal guardian) during the marriage registration process at the family court in the UAE. This proxy is authorized to provide consent for the marriage. In cases where the father or legal guardian cannot attend the court in person, he may designate another male, who shares the same religion and is at least 21 years old, to represent him.

This legal document guarantees that a designated proxy can represent the father or legal guardian during the marriage registration process. It enables the necessary consent and documentation even in their absence, streamlining the entire procedure.

  • Child Travel Consent Form and No Objection for Child Sponsorship:

When you’re traveling with your child(ren) without the other parent or if they’re accompanied by another adult (such as grandparents, teachers, or family friends), a child travel consent form can save you from potential hassle during the trip. By using this form, you can authorize the other parent or another adult to accompany, care for, and make decisions for your child(ren) on your behalf while traveling.

As the child’s mother, you have the option to include the sponsorship or residency of your child under your visa. This can be achieved by obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the child’s father.

For Companies:

Company Management Power of Attorney:

A company management power of attorney is bestowed upon the general manager by the owner(s) to authorize them to oversee the day-to-day operations and manage the company’s affairs. It delineates the specific transactions that the general manager can undertake on behalf of the company, ensuring seamless operations. Additionally, the manager may delegate their powers, as specified in the MOA-AOA, by signing such a power of attorney to another individual.

Special Power of Attorney:

Companies often bestow a special power of attorney upon an employee or a third party when specific transactions require execution. This particular form of authority is frequently utilized for tasks such as company incorporation, contract signing, and opening bank accounts.

There are several widely utilized forms of business power of attorney that commonly come into play:

  • Company Formation POA
  • Company Bank Matters POA
  • Company VAT POA
  • Company Trademark POA

How to get the UAE Power of Attorney Online?

Dubai Courts’ electronic notarization service, also known as the e-notary portal, offers a convenient way to notarize power of attorney documents without the need to visit physical notary public offices. With this online service, individuals can easily obtain their UAE power of attorney. Follow the simple steps below to complete the process smoothly:

Step 1: You can conveniently place your order online by visiting our Pricing page. Simply select the POA package that best suits your needs. If you require any assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Step 2: We will gather the necessary information from you and deliver the draft of your Power of Attorney (POA) in both English and Arabic by email. You will have the opportunity to review and approve it.

Step 3: Once your application is approved, we will guide you through the entire process of electronically notarizing your POA. Rest assured, you will receive the duly notarized POA promptly in your email.

Choosing the right type of power of attorney is crucial, tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. It’s essential to have a carefully drafted power of attorney that covers all necessary details and is acceptable to third parties and government entities. Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable professional, well-versed in UAE Law, is highly recommended to determine the most suitable power of attorney for individual or business requirements. Whether it’s estate planning, property management, or company decisions, a power of attorney provides the necessary authority to fulfill your needs.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or relied upon for making any specific actions or decisions. It is not intended to create a lawyer-client relationship or to provide legal advice or services for any particular matter. Users of this website are encouraged to consult with their own lawyer or legal counsel to obtain specific legal advice on any individual legal concerns they may have.

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