A Power of Attorney (POA) in the UAE is one of the most practical legal tools for delegating authority. Whether you are an expatriate managing assets abroad, an investor running businesses, or a family member handling personal affairs, a POA allows you to authorize someone you trust to act on your behalf.
But one of the most common questions people ask is: “How long does a Power of Attorney remain valid in the UAE?” The answer depends on the type of POA, the wording of the document, and the circumstances under which it is granted.
General Rule: No Automatic Expiry
Under UAE law, a POA does not carry a fixed validity period unless one is specified in the document itself. This means a POA can technically remain valid indefinitely — until it is:
- Revoked by the principal (the person granting it),
- Replaced with a new POA,
- Terminated upon the death or incapacity of the principal, or
- Expired due to a specific term or condition stated within the document.
In short, a Power of Attorney in the UAE is as valid as the terms you put into it.
Different Types of POA and Their Validity
1. General Power of Attorney
A General POA in Dubai, UAE gives broad powers to the agent (attorney-in-fact), such as managing bank accounts, signing contracts, or handling property. These are usually valid throughout one’s lifetime until expressly revoked or until the principal passes away. For practical and legal clarity, many people prefer to set a validity period — often 2 to 5 years — to ensure periodic renewal.
2. Special Power of Attorney
A Special Power of Attorney is task-specific, such as selling a property, representing you in court, or completing a business transaction. Its validity usually ends once the task is completed. For instance, a POA granted to sell a property in Dubai would remain effective only until the property transfer is completed.
3. Property Sale POA
For real estate transactions, the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and similar authorities in other emirates often impose a two-year maximum validity for property-related POAs. This ensures the document is current and reduces risks of misuse. After expiry, a fresh POA must be issued if the transaction is still pending.
4. Court Representation POA
When appointing a lawyer to represent you in UAE courts, the POA remains valid for the duration of the case. However, for ongoing matters, courts may require updated documentation, so renewals are sometimes necessary.
Renewal and Revocation
If a POA includes a validity term, the principal must renew it before expiry to keep it enforceable. Renewal is done by issuing a new notarized POA.
Revocation, on the other hand, is straightforward: the principal can cancel the POA anytime by signing a revocation deed before a notary public, and notifying all relevant parties (banks, authorities, business partners).
Why Setting a Validity Period Matters
Even though UAE law allows POAs to remain valid indefinitely, setting a clear validity period is strongly recommended. It helps:
- Keep documents up to date,
- Prevent unauthorized or outdated use,
- Comply with specific authority requirements (e.g., DLD property transactions).
Key Takeaway
So, how long is a Power of Attorney valid in the UAE? The duration depends on how it is drafted. Unless an expiry date is mentioned, a POA remains valid indefinitely. But in practice, many authorities, especially for property and legal matters, require POAs to be renewed every 2 to 5 years.
At JustPOA, we assist clients in drafting, notarizing, and managing their Powers of Attorney in accordance with UAE regulations. Whether you need a short-term POA for a specific transaction or a long-term one for managing assets, our experts ensure your document is legally sound, valid, and tailored to your needs.
FAQs
What is the maximum period of a Power of Attorney?
In Dubai, a Power of Attorney is typically valid for two years from the date of issuance. After this period, it must be renewed if you wish it to remain legally effective. The exact validity may also depend on the specific purpose stated in the POA.
What is a durable Power of Attorney in the UAE?
A durable POA is a legal document that remains effective even if the principal becomes incapacitated, allowing the appointed agent to continue managing affairs or making decisions on the principal’s behalf.
Which is more powerful, a lawyer or an attorney?
An attorney-in-fact under a POA can act directly on the principal’s behalf within the powers granted in the document, while a lawyer can provide advice and represent clients in court. The scope of authority in the POA determines who can legally take action.
How is a POA revoked in Dubai?
To revoke a POA in Dubai, the principal must submit a formal notification to the authority that issued the POA. Once revoked, the agent no longer has the legal right to act on the principal’s behalf.
What is the strongest type of Power of Attorney?
The strongest type of Power of Attorney in the UAE is generally a Durable General Power of Attorney. It combines broad authority, allowing the agent to manage financial, legal, and property matters, with the ability to remain valid even if the principal becomes incapacitated. This makes it both comprehensive and long-lasting.
