What is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that authorizes someone else, typically a lawyer, authorized person, or family member, to act on your behalf for specific transactions. In the context of UAE property purchases, it allows your appointed authorized person to sign contracts, pay fees, and complete registration at the Land Department or developer's office without you physically being in the Emirates.

In case you don't have anyone in UAE to act on your behalf, we can appoint a legalized company to act on your behalf.

Types of POA for UAE property transactions

General POA

Broad authority across multiple transactions and matters

Specific POA

Limited to one transaction or property only

RAKcompare recommends: Use a Specific POA for each property purchase. It reduces risk and meets transaction-specific wording requirements. Note: Power of Attorney is not required for buying properties directly from developers. POA is only required for secondary resale or off-plan resale purchases.

THE 8-STEP PROCESS from anywhere in the world

Book your online notary session

RAKcompare will connect you to an authorized notary company. Most firms offer same-day or next-day availability. Book a 20-minute video session. They will ask for your full name, nationality, passport details, property details, and authorized person's Emirates ID.

Firm drafts the POA document

The licensed firm drafts your POA with transaction-specific wording and electronic verification protocols. You receive a draft PDF by email 2–4 hours before your session to review the exact powers being granted.

Upload your passport scan

Before the video call, upload a high-resolution scan of every page of your passport via the firm's secure portal. Ensure it is current and not expired. This is required for identity verification and to embed your details into the notarized document.

Make your payment

Pay the service fee online, typically AED 1,000 to AED 3,500 depending on jurisdiction and urgency. This covers notary services, document preparation, electronic verification, and official digital seals. Most firms accept credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal.

Join the live video session

At your scheduled time, join the video call via the firm's secure platform. The notary will verify your identity in real-time by comparing your face to your passport photo. You will be asked to hold your passport to the camera and answer security questions (date of birth, nationality, etc.).

Typical duration: 15–20 minutes

Sign electronically — OTP confirmation

During the call, you will receive a one-time password (OTP) to your email and phone. Enter it to sign the document digitally. The notary immediately digitally notarizes the POA. No physical signature, no printing, no couriering required.

Receive your notarized POA by email

You receive the notarized PDF by email immediately after the session. This document is legally valid across all Emirates, no additional attestation, stamping, or embassy visits required. Forward a copy to your authorized person in the UAE.

Your authorized person completes the transaction

Your authorized person presents the POA at the Land Department Trustee Centre or developer's office. They sign the Sale & Purchase Agreement, pay transfer fees, and register the title deed in your name. You receive ownership confirmation remotely. Done.

Transaction complete — title deed in your name

What you need to prepare

Valid passport — clear scan, all pages, not expired

Authorized person's full details — full name, nationality, Emirates ID number

Property details — project name, unit number, plot number

Device with a working camera — for the video call identity verification

Stable internet connection — and good lighting for the video session

Email address + mobile number — for OTP delivery during signing

1-2

Working days
to complete

AED 1,000 - 3,500

Typical total
cost range

Alternative — if you prefer a physical notary in your home country

Sign before a local notary in your country of residence

Get the document legalised by your Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Attest at the UAE Embassy or Consulate in your country

Final attestation by MOFAIC upon arrival in UAE

Note: This route takes 1–2 weeks vs 1 day online — the online route is strongly recommended

How to issue a Power of Attorney