How to Cancel a Power of Attorney in Dubai (2025 Guide)

A power of attorney (POA) is immensely useful in Dubai, allowing you to authorize someone to handle contracts, manage property, or access bank accounts. However, circumstances change—you may need to cancel a power of attorney in Dubai due to loss of trust, change of plans, or completion of a transaction. Fortunately, UAE law allows you to revoke a POA at any time, provided the cancellation is properly documented and communicated. This 2025 guide explains exactly how to cancel a power of attorney in Dubai, step by step.

Know Your Legal Rights

Articles 941‑952 of the UAE Civil Transactions Law (Federal Law No. 5 of 1985) establish that a principal may revoke or limit an attorney’s authority at will unless the POA explicitly states it is “irrevocable for consideration.” In Dubai the revocation must be notarised through Dubai Courts Notary Public (DCNP) or an approved e-notary platform, otherwise, third parties can continue relying on the POA.

Review the Existing POA

Before you cancel a power of attorney in Dubai, review the original document carefully:

• Type of POA:  general, special, property‑specific, etc.
• Expiry clause: Some POAs lapse automatically on a set date.
• Irrevocable wording: if the POA was given for “consideration” (for example, as part of a sale contract), the agent may need to consent to cancellation.

If unsure, get an Arabic/English legal translation and legal opinion.

Gather the Required Documents

To cancel a power of attorney in Dubai, prepare the following:

• Emirates ID + passport copy of the principal
• Passport or Emirates ID copy of the attorney (recommended)
• Original POA (if available)
• Draft Revocation of Power of Attorney in Arabic (or bilingual) stating the POA number, date, and a clear declaration that all powers are withdrawn
• If you are cancelling from outside the UAE: a consular/legalisation cover sheet (see § 8)

Digital copies (PDF/JPEG) are accepted for online filing; hard copies are required for in-person notarization.

Choose Your Cancellation Method

Here are three ways to cancel a power of attorney in Dubai:

In both local options, the notary uploads the cancellation to Dubai Courts’ blockchain-backed register, making the revocation immediately traceable.

Cancel a Power of Attorney in Dubai – In-Person Process

To cancel a power of attorney in Dubai face-to-face:

1. Draft or order a bilingual revocation deed; licensed typing centers charge c. AED 120.
2. Book a slot via the DCNP website/app or arrive early at a walk-in center.
3. Present your ID and sign the deed in front of the notary.
4. Pay the fee (card or cash).
5. Collect the stamped original and download the e-copy with a QR code from the DCNP portal.
6. Serve notice: send the stamped revocation to the attorney and any bank, developer, or government department that might rely on the old POA. A registered email or courier gives you proof of delivery.

Failure to notify the attorney can leave you liable for actions they carry out in good faith.

Cancel a Power of Attorney in Dubai – Online (Smart Notary)

For tech-savvy users, canceling a power of attorney in Dubai online is quick and efficient:

1. Log into DCNP Portal with UAE Pass.
2. Upload the revocation deed and your ID.
3. Complete a video call to verify your identity.
4. Receive the notarized document via email.
5. Share it with banks and other entities as needed.

This method is widely accepted by government departments and banks.

Cancel a Property-Related POA

To cancel a power of attorney in Dubai linked to property:

• Notify the Dubai Land Department (DLD) within 15 days.
• Use the REST app or visit a Real Estate Services Trustee center.
• This step is crucial to avoid fraudulent sales or delays.

Cancel a Power of Attorney in Dubai from Outside the UAE

Yes, you can still cancel a power of attorney in Dubai even if you’re overseas:

• Prepare and notarize the revocation at a UAE embassy.
• Legalize it through MOFAIC upon return or online.
• Courier the document to a Dubai-based representative to file with DCNP.

After Revocation: What Next?

When you cancel a power of attorney in Dubai, the agent’s authority ends immediately—but only if:

• The revocation is notarized and properly served.
• All third parties are informed.

If you had multiple attorneys, cancel each POA separately.

Cost & Timeline Summary

Most revocations can be completed the same day unless consular steps are needed.

Mistakes to Avoid When You Cancel a Power of Attorney in Dubai

• Not translating the deed into Arabic
• Forgetting to notify banks or authorities
• Ignoring statutory notary fees
• Attempting to revoke an irrevocable POA without consent
• Using outdated templates (2025 forms require QR codes)

Conclusion

It’s easier than ever to cancel a power of attorney in Dubai—especially with digital notary services. Whether you do it online or in person, make sure your revocation is correctly notarized, documented, and served. By following these steps, you can protect your assets and regain full control with minimal hassle.

FAQs