In Dubai, a Business Power of Attorney (POA) is more than just a document, it’s a tool that allows business owners to delegate specific responsibilities when they can’t be physically present. Whether you’re travelling, living abroad, or simply managing multiple ventures, a Power of Attorney in Dubai helps someone you trust take care of key tasks on your behalf.

But here’s the catch: if not done correctly, a POA can cause more problems than it solves. Rejections, delays, or confusion are often caused by mistakes that could’ve been easily avoided.

Let’s walk through some of the most common issues people face when drafting a Business Power of Attorney in Dubai, and how to avoid them.

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Drafting Your POA:

1. Using a One-Size-Fits-All Template

Not all POAs are created equal. A template taken from a quick online search or another company is rarely suitable for your specific case.

Why it’s a problem:

Every POA must follow UAE formatting rules, include clear Arabic translation, and list specific powers relevant to your business. A generic template can lead to rejection during notarization.

What to do instead:

Use a format recognised by Dubai Courts or your relevant authorities, and tailor it to the specific tasks your representative will handle. A generic POA will miss key clauses, be improperly formatted for UAE use, and result in delays or outright rejections. The POA must be drafted in line with UAE legal standards, your business activity, and your company’s structure.

2. Being Too Vague About the Powers Granted

Writing phrases like “handle my business affairs” is not sufficient. Dubai notaries do not accept vague or overly broad language.

Why it’s a problem:

Authorities require clarity. If powers aren’t clearly defined, the POA won’t be accepted, and your representative won’t be able to act on your behalf. Worse, unclear authority can lead to disputes or liability issues if actions are later challenged.

What to do instead:

Be precise. List actions like renewing licenses, signing contracts, handling bank transactions, submitting documents to DED, DMCC, or any Free Zone authority. A detailed and specific POA ensures full legal validity.

3. Choosing the Wrong Type of POA

Not all POAs are the same. Business transactions require a specific type of POA, typically a General or Special POA, depending on the powers you wish to assign. Using a general POA when a special one is needed (or vice versa) can limit the agent’s ability to act or expose your business to unnecessary risks.

Why is it a problem?

Using a general POA when a special one is needed (or vice versa) can limit the agent’s ability to act or expose your business to unnecessary risks.

Determine exactly what you want the appointed representative to do. If it’s limited to specific tasks, use a Special POA. For broader business authority, use a General POA. Get legal guidance if you’re unsure.

4. Signing as an Individual Instead of as a Director

This one’s tricky. If you’re authorizing someone on behalf of a company, but sign the Company Power of Attorney as an individual (and not as a director or manager of the company), it can lead to rejection.

Why it’s a problem:

A POA that reads, “I, John Smith, authorise…” when it’s intended to represent “ABC LLC” may get rejected. That’s a legal mismatch.
Sign clearly as a company representative. Attach your trade license, board resolution, or minutes of meeting to prove your authority.

5. Skipping the Expiry Date or Revocation Clause

A POA that doesn’t specify how long it’s valid or how it can be revoked creates unnecessary risk.

Why it’s a problem:

A POA without clear validity can remain active longer than its intended duration. This opens the door to misuse or disputes.

What to do instead:

Always include a validity period, typically one or two years, and state clearly that it can be revoked anytime through written notice. This gives you full control over its use.
A Business Power of Attorney might seem simple, but when done wrong, it can hold your business back in big ways. From vague wording to incorrect formats, the smallest mistake can lead to rejections or legal headaches you don’t need. The good news? Avoiding these issues is easy when your POA is handled by professionals familiar with the UAE system, such as our experienced team at JustPOA.

6. Failing to Ensure Proper Notarization and Attestation

A Business POA is only valid in Dubai if it’s properly notarized. If issued outside the UAE, it must also be attested by the UAE Embassy abroad and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE.

Why it’s important:

Without notarization or proper attestation, the POA will be rejected by authorities, banks, or licensing bodies.

What to do instead:

Have local POAs notarized at a recognised notary public in Dubai. As for foreign POAs, complete full embassy and MOFA attestation before use in the UAE, to ensure its validity. Otherwise, another option can be the online notarization as long as you have valid documents.

Why Choose JustPOA?

Creating a Business Power of Attorney in Dubai doesn’t have to be complicated, if it’s done right.
At JustPOA, we’ve drafted and registered thousands of POAs across the UAE. Our team ensures your document is accurate, legally sound, and fully aligned with UAE requirements, with no guesswork, no stress.

Whether you’re authorising a business partner, a manager, or a trusted representative, we help you get it done smoothly, with expert guidance at every step.

Get your Business POA in Dubai drafted professionally.

Start now with JustPOA.

FAQs

How to Get a Business POA in Dubai?

Start by drafting a clear and specific POA tailored to your business needs. Get it translated into Arabic and notarized at a recognised notary public. You’ll also need to submit supporting documents like your trade license and passport copy.

How Much Does a Business POA Cost in Dubai?

A Business POA costs vary based on complexity, translation, and notary fees. On average, expect to pay between AED 600 to AED 2,500 for a professionally drafted and notarized Business POA, depending on your requirement.

How to Validate a Business POA in Dubai?

A Business POA is valid only if it’s properly drafted, translated into Arabic, and notarized in Dubai. Once notarized, it’s legally recognised and can be used before authorities and institutions.

How to Revoke a Business POA in Dubai?

To revoke a Business POA in Dubai, draft a formal revocation notice and get it notarized. Notify the attorney and any relevant authorities. Once done, the POA is no longer valid.