One mistranslated word in a Power of Attorney (POA) in Dubai can completely change its meaning and even put your assets at risk. That’s why UAE law makes it mandatory for every POA to be legally translated into Arabic before it is accepted by courts or government departments. In a city where expats often draft their POAs in English, legal translation services in Dubai become the bridge that ensures your rights, responsibilities, and intentions are accurately reflected. Without it, your POA may face rejection during notarization or worse, grant powers you never intended to.
Why Legal Translation Is Crucial for Dubai POAs
In the UAE, Arabic is the official legal language. This means that:
- Any POA submitted to the Dubai Notary Public or government authority must include an Arabic version.
- If the original is in English, it has to be professionally translated by a certified legal translator.
- The translated version is considered the legally binding text in case of disputes.
This requirement is not about bureaucracy; it’s about ensuring clarity, accuracy, and enforceability. Without a properly translated POA, even the most carefully drafted document cannot be recognized under UAE law.
How Legal Translation Works in POAs
The translation of POAs in Dubai follows a strict process:
1. Drafting the POA: Most expats prepare the POA in English first, outlining the powers granted.
2. Legal Translation into Arabic: A MOJ-approved translator accurately translates the document.
3. Review and Certification: The translator certifies the translation with a seal, confirming its validity.
4. Notarization: Both the English and Arabic versions are presented to the Dubai Notary Public for official notarization.
At the end of this process, your POA becomes a legally recognized document that can be used before banks, courts, property authorities, and other institutions across the UAE.
Risks of Poor or Inaccurate Translation
When it comes to POAs, precision is everything. Here’s what can go wrong with poor translation:
- Rejection at the Notary Public: If the Arabic version is incomplete or uncertified, the document won’t be accepted.
- Misinterpretation of Powers: A mistranslated phrase could accidentally give your agent broader authority than intended.
- Legal Disputes: In case of disagreement, the Arabic version is binding. Any inaccuracy could work against you.
That’s why it’s critical to rely on certified translators rather than general or online translation tools.
Who Needs Legal Translation for POAs in Dubai?
Legal translation of POAs is essential for:
- Expats appointing someone to manage property, bank accounts, or legal matters in Dubai.
- Business owners granting authority to partners, managers, or employees.
- Families preparing POAs for personal matters, such as guardianship or medical decisions.
- Investors who need representation in property purchases or financial dealings.
In short, anyone drafting a POA in Dubai must comply with the Arabic translation requirement to ensure the document is valid.
Tips for Getting Power of Attorney Translation Right
1. Use Ministry of Justice approved translators
Only the Ministry of Justice–certified translators can produce legally valid translations in Dubai, ensuring your Power of Attorney is accepted by authorities without delays.
2. Review both versions carefully
Compare the English and Arabic texts before notarization to confirm that every clause and instruction has been translated with complete accuracy.
3. Ensure accurate legal terminology
A Power of Attorney must reflect the exact intent of the original. The translation should employ precise legal language to accurately capture powers and limitations.
4. Work with an end-to-end service provider
A professional firm that manages drafting, translation, and notarization together saves time, prevents errors, and ensures compliance with Dubai’s legal requirements.
Conclusion
A Power of Attorney is only as strong as its accuracy and legal validity. In Dubai, that means ensuring your POA is flawlessly translated into Arabic, notarized, and fully compliant with UAE law. With certified translators and end-to-end support, you can avoid costly mistakes, protect your interests, and ensure your intentions are carried out exactly as planned. Partnering with JustPOA gives you the confidence that your POA in Dubai is prepared, translated, and recognized without complications.
FAQs
What is legal Arabic translation in the UAE?
Legal translation in the UAE is the official translation of documents into Arabic, carried out by the Ministry of Justice–certified translators. It ensures that contracts, POAs, court documents, and other legal papers are valid, enforceable, and recognized by UAE authorities.
What is the legal translation process?
The process begins with the original document being translated into Arabic by a Ministry of Justice–approved translator. The translation is then stamped and certified, confirming its accuracy and validity. Once certified, the Arabic version becomes the legally binding text that must be submitted to UAE authorities.
