Introduction
In a fast-paced city like Dubai, where professionals, business owners, and investors often travel or manage affairs remotely, the need to legally delegate authority becomes essential. A Special Power of Attorney (SPA) in Dubai provides individuals and businesses with a safe and recognized legal framework to authorize someone they trust to act on their behalf for specific tasks or transactions.
Whether you are selling property, handling corporate matters, managing banking issues, or representing yourself in court, a properly drafted SPA ensures that your interests are protected even in your absence. At Notary Services Dubai, we specialize in drafting, reviewing, and notarizing Special Power of Attorney documents that comply with UAE laws, offering both in-person and online notarization solutions for maximum convenience.
What is a Special Power of Attorney (SPA)?
Definition & Legal Nature
A Special Power of Attorney (SPA) is a legal document through which a person (the Principal) authorizes another person (the Agent) to act on their behalf for specific acts or legal matters. Unlike a General Power of Attorney (GPA), which grants broad powers, the SPA is limited in scope, focusing only on defined responsibilities such as selling a property, collecting debts, or representing in court.
In Dubai, a Special Power of Attorney is recognized under the UAE Civil Code and is widely used for personal, business, and financial purposes. This limitation of scope provides more security, as the agent cannot exceed the specific powers mentioned in the document.
Why Use an SPA?
- Real Estate Transactions: When the owner is abroad and needs someone to sell or manage property in Dubai.
- Business Transactions: Delegating authority to sign contracts or handle trade license matters.
- Legal Representation: Authorizing a lawyer to represent you in UAE courts.
- Banking & Finance: Allowing a trusted agent to manage banking, deposits, or withdrawals.
- Government Services: Handling immigration, visa renewals, or utility services.
Without a legally binding SPA, many of these actions cannot be performed by another person on your behalf, leading to delays, legal disputes, or even financial losses.
Legal Framework & Recognition in Dubai / UAE
Laws, Courts & Notary System
Special Powers of Attorney in Dubai are governed by the UAE. Notarization is mandatory to make the document legally enforceable.
- Dubai Notary Public: Government-supervised notary offices handle physical notarization.
- Private Notaries: Licensed private notaries (such as Notary Services Dubai) simplify and expedite the process.
- E-Notarization: Dubai introduced online notarization, allowing SPAs to be issued remotely via video calls and secure platforms like BOTIM.
Validity, Revocation & Limitations
- Validity: The SPA remains valid for the period specified within the document.
- Revocation: The Principal can revoke the SPA at any time through notarization of a revocation deed.
- Automatic Termination: The SPA automatically expires on the death or incapacity of the principal.
- Limitations: Certain personal acts, such as marriage or divorce, cannot be delegated.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Special Power of Attorney in Dubai
1. Preparation & Drafting
- Collect personal details of both parties (Principal & Agent).
- Clearly define the powers being granted (e.g., property sale, court representation).
- Set duration and conditions (one-time use, or valid until a certain date).
- Translate the draft into Arabic (mandatory for submission in Dubai courts and government offices).
- Seek assistance from professionals like Notary Services Dubai to ensure compliance.
2. Documentation Required
- Valid passport copy of Principal & Agent.
- Emirates ID (if resident).
- Proof of ownership (for property matters).
- Trade license & Memorandum of Association (for company SPAs).
- Any supporting evidence specific to the transaction.
3. Notarization / Attestation
- In-Person Notarization: Visit Dubai Courts or a licensed private notary with original documents.
- Online Notarization: Verify identity via video call, upload documents, and digitally sign.
- Payment of Fees: Government fees vary depending on scope and nature of the SPA.
- Delivery: The notarized SPA is issued as a legally binding document.
4. Post-Notarization Steps
- Legalization for international use: If the SPA is to be used abroad, it must be attested by UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the relevant embassy.
- Submission: Register with authorities if needed (Dubai Land Department, banks, or courts).
- Safekeeping: Always store copies securely and provide certified copies to your agent.
Timeline & Cost Estimates
- Drafting: Same-day service (with Notary Services Dubai).
- Notarization: 1–3 working days (online or physical).
- Costs:
• Government notarization fees: Varies
• Translation: Varies
• Service provider fee: Varies
Common Use Cases & Real-Life Scenarios
- Property SPA – Expatriates selling property in Dubai without being present.
- Corporate SPA – Investors delegating managers to handle license renewals.
- Court SPA – Clients authorizing lawyers for litigation.
- Banking SPA – Allowing trusted family to access accounts.
- Vehicle SPA – Selling or transferring a car without being physically present.
Benefits & Risks — What to Watch Out For
Benefits
- Legally recognized in Dubai courts.
- Saves time for busy professionals & expatriates.
- Secure delegation of tasks while abroad.
- Flexible & customizable scope.
Risks & Mitigation
- Risk: Misuse of authority.
• Solution: Limit scope, add restrictions. - Risk: Poor drafting leads to invalidity.
• Solution: Use professional services like Notary Services Dubai. - Risk: Fraudulent representation.
• Solution: Verify agent identity & keep certified copies.
Why Choose Notary Services Dubai?
- Expertise: Years of legal experience drafting SPAs compliant with UAE laws.
- Convenience: Both in-person and online notarization available.
- Multilingual Support: Documents drafted in English & Arabic.
- Fast Turnaround: Same-day drafting and quick notarization.
- Trust & Confidentiality: Secure handling of sensitive documents.
At Notary Services Dubai, we ensure your SPA is legally sound, quickly notarized, and fully enforceable within the UAE and abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I issue a Special Power of Attorney while abroad?
Yes, through UAE embassies or consulates abroad, followed by attestation in Dubai.
2. How long is an SPA valid?
It depends on what is mentioned in the document, typically 1–2 years or until the task is completed.
3. Can I cancel it anytime?
Yes, by notarizing a revocation deed.
4. Does it need to be in Arabic?
Yes, an Arabic version is mandatory for government use.
5. What happens if the Principal dies?
The SPA becomes null and void automatically.
Conclusion
A Special Power of Attorney in Dubai is not just a document, it’s a legal safeguard that allows you to protect your rights, manage assets, and conduct transactions seamlessly, even when you’re unavailable. Drafting it correctly is crucial to avoid disputes, delays, or invalidation.
With Notary Services Dubai, you can trust in an experienced team that provides expert drafting, online notarization, and full legal compliance to make the process effortless and secure.
👉 Contact Notary Services Dubai today to get your Special Power of Attorney drafted and notarized — online or in-person — with complete confidence.
