If you are planning to sell a property in the UAE but you live abroad or have a busy schedule, there is no need to worry. You can simply issue a Property Sale Power of Attorney, a legal document that authorizes someone to represent you and complete the sale on your behalf—smoothly and legally.
In this guide, we will walk you step by step through the power of attorney for selling property, including how to issue it, its types, the agent’s powers, and the required documents.
As a licensed private notary office, you can contact us now to draft and notarize a property sale POA online quickly.
What Is a Property Sale Power of Attorney in the UAE?
A Property Sale Power of Attorney is a legal document that enables you to authorize a specific person—whether a relative or a real estate agent—to sell a property on your behalf. It must be notarized by the notary public to become legally valid and recognized by official authorities, such as:
- Dubai Land Department
- Abu Dhabi Judicial Department
Why Do You Need a Property Sale POA?
You may need a POA for selling property when:
- You want to finalize a property sale without being physically present.
- You are living outside the UAE or traveling for an extended period.
- You want to ensure the sale is completed correctly by a trusted agent with clearly defined powers.
There are several types of property sale POAs, each giving different levels of authority:
Types of Property Sale Power of Attorney in the UAE
1. Special (Specific) Power of Attorney for Sale
- Covers a specific property.
- Must explicitly state the agent’s authority to sell and transfer ownership.
- Commonly used in family sales or individual transactions.
2. General Power of Attorney
- Grants broad authority over all of the principal’s assets.
- Not valid for selling real estate unless it contains a clear explicit clause authorizing the sale.
3. Conditional / Restricted POA
- Includes a condition such as:
– obtaining a certain approval
– selling at a minimum price
- The condition must be clearly defined to ensure enforceability.
Essential Requirements for a Valid Property Sale POA
To ensure the POA is legally valid, the following must be included:
- Notarization by the notary public or authorized official entity.
- A clear and explicit statement authorizing the agent to sell and transfer ownership.
- Accurate property description, including detailed identifiers.
- Mention of whether the POA is limited or unlimited in duration.
- Both principal and agent must have legal capacity.
Steps to Issue a Property Sale POA Inside the UAE
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth process:
- Draft the POA clearly, specifying the property and the agent’s powers.
- Notarize the POA before the notary public in the emirate where the property is located to ensure it is recognized by authorities.
- Submit all required documents.
- Register the POA with the Land Department or Judicial Department depending on the emirate.
Issuing an Electronic POA or Issuing from Outside the UAE
If the principal wants an electronic POA or is residing abroad, the process is as follows:
- Send your documents to us via email: Info@privatenotarydubai.ae
- Our team drafts the complete POA text and sends a draft version for review.
- Once approved, a session is scheduled with the authorized notary.
- A formal video call is held, during which the notary verifies the principal’s identity and understanding of the POA.
- The principal signs electronically, followed by the notary’s electronic signature during the same session.
- The official notarized POA (PDF) is emailed to the principal, fully valid inside the UAE immediately—no additional attestations required.
You may send the electronic copy to the agent or print it for submission to UAE authorities (courts, land departments, banks, etc.).
There is no need for UAE Embassy or Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestation, as it is notarized directly inside the UAE.
Required Documents for Issuing a Property Sale POA
Prepare the following documents:
- Clear color copy of Emirates ID or passport of both the principal and the agent (must be valid).
- Contact details for both parties.
- Property title deed, including:
– unit number
– project name
– emirate
- Any related contracts, such as a sale agreement if applicable.
- For foreign documents: a certified, officially translated copy is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Property Sale Power of Attorney in the UAE?
It is a legal document that authorizes a specific person to complete the sale of a property on your behalf before real estate and official authorities.
What is the difference between a general POA and a special POA?
A general POA grants broad authority over multiple assets or transactions, while a special POA is limited to one property and specific powers—making it the safer option for property sales.
What are the steps to issue a POA?
Inside the UAE: drafting, notarization before the notary public, document submission, and registration.
Outside the UAE: notarization abroad followed by UAE Embassy and MOFA attestation, unless using UAE electronic notarization.
Can the POA be issued electronically?
Yes. It can be issued electronically through official UAE online notary services, subject to verification requirements.
Who can be an agent to sell the property?
Anyone you trust—relative, friend, or lawyer—provided they have a notarized POA and valid identification.
Conclusion
Issuing a Property Sale POA in the UAE gives you peace of mind and protects your legal rights whether you are inside or outside the country.
Following the official procedures, choosing a trustworthy agent, and using electronic notarization make the process easier and more secure.
Start now by securing your real estate POAs with Private Notary Dubai, and get your instant online consultation today.
Abdul Hamid is a legal consultant with extensive experience in providing legal advice in the United Arab Emirates. His expertise focuses on legal drafting, resolving commercial disputes, and drafting and reviewing corporate and employment contracts.
