A company can authorise a person to act on its behalf through a corporate power of attorney. It is commonly used for banking, licensing, litigation, contracts and dealings with government authorities.
Because a company acts through its authorised signatories, the first question is who has power to grant the POA.
Who can sign for the company
Check the company's articles, licence and any board or shareholder resolutions. Not all managers or directors can delegate every power. Where the articles require approval, obtain it first. See board resolutions and corporate records.
Supporting documents
- Trade licence and constitutional documents
- Resolutions authorising the appointment, if required
- Identification of the signatory and attorney
- Evidence of the signatory's authority, such as a manager appointment
Defining the powers
Common scopes include opening and operating bank accounts, signing contracts up to certain limits, dealing with the licensing authority, and instructing advisers. Avoid unnecessarily broad powers, and set financial limits and an expiry date where suitable.
Court-related powers
Representation before courts is carried out by licensed advocates, so a POA for this purpose is typically granted to an authorised advocate.
Foreign companies
A foreign company's POA for use in the UAE usually needs notarisation and authentication abroad, with translation. See foreign documents for use in the UAE.
Revocation and records
Keep a register of POAs granted. Revoke those no longer needed through a formal process and notify banks and authorities.
Risks
Broad or long-lived POAs can be misused. Review them regularly and limit access.
How a consultation can help
A consultation can help align the POA wording with the company's documents and intended use. It cannot guarantee that a bank or authority will accept the POA.
Frequently asked questions
Can a manager appoint someone without board approval?
It depends on the articles and law. Check authority before signing.
Do banks accept any corporate POA?
Banks often have their own requirements and may request their own forms.
Should I set an expiry date?
Often advisable, because it limits long-term risk.
Related guides and services
- Power of Attorney Requirements in the UAE: Documents and Steps
- Power of Attorney in Dubai: A Consultation Guide
- Corporate Restructuring in the UAE: Key Legal Considerations
- Notary, POA & Attestation – all guides
- Notary & Attestation
- Corporate Governance
General information only. Please read our Legal Disclaimer.