Power of Attorney Cancellation in UAE generally involves applying to the competent notary public or attestation authority to revoke an existing Power of Attorney (POA). The principal may revoke an agent’s authority as a general rule, but legal restrictions apply where the POA was granted for the agent’s benefit or where a third party has rights connected to it.
A principal may wish to cancel a POA after completing a transaction, changing an authorised representative, or deciding to prevent the agent from carrying out further acts. However, obtaining a cancellation document does not necessarily settle the legal consequences of transactions already completed or matters still in progress.
This guide explains how to cancel a Power of Attorney in the UAE, the legal conditions for revocation, online procedures, required documents, government fees, notification requirements, and the effect of cancellation on the agent’s authority.
How to Cancel a Power of Attorney in the UAE
To complete Power of Attorney cancellation in the UAE, the principal should first review the document to confirm that revocation is legally permitted, then submit a cancellation request to the competent notarial authority.
The main steps are:
- Review the Power of Attorney: Check its scope, the agent’s powers, and whether the document creates rights for the agent or a third party.
- Identify the competent authority: Determine which notary public or attestation authority can process the cancellation.
- Prepare the documents: Collect the existing POA, identification documents, and evidence of legal capacity where necessary.
- Submit the cancellation application: Use the authority’s official online platform or another accepted channel.
- Pay the applicable fees: Follow the payment instructions for the relevant service.
- Complete notarisation: Satisfy any digital signature or identity verification requirements.
- Receive the cancellation document: Keep the issued instrument as evidence of the cancellation procedure.
- Notify the agent and relevant organisations: Follow the appropriate notification procedure and update the authorisation records of affected institutions.
The UAE Ministry of Justice provides an official Cancellation of Contracts and Deeds service for documents within its jurisdiction.
However, the procedure may differ for POAs notarised or processed through the competent local authorities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates.
Cancelling a POA does not automatically invalidate every transaction previously carried out under it. The legal effect depends on the circumstances, the agent’s knowledge of the revocation, and any rights that have already arisen.
When Can a Principal Revoke a Power of Attorney Under UAE Law?
Under Article 898 of Federal Decree-Law No. 25 of 2025 Promulgating the Civil Transactions Law, a principal generally has the right to dismiss an agent or restrict the agent’s authority.
However, if the agency was established for the agent’s benefit or a third party has a right connected to it, the principal cannot terminate or restrict the authority without the consent of the person holding that right.
Common Reasons for Cancelling a POA
A principal may seek revocation for several reasons, including:
- The delegated transaction is no longer required.
- The principal wishes to appoint a different representative.
- The principal decides to manage the matter personally.
- The agent’s authority over a property, bank account, or business matter is no longer needed.
- A disagreement has arisen between the principal and the agent.
These reasons do not automatically establish that unilateral revocation is legally effective in every case.
The wording of the POA, the purpose of the agency, and the rights connected to it must be considered before proceeding.
When Is Unilateral Revocation Restricted?
A principal may be restricted from cancelling a POA without the relevant person’s consent if the authority was granted for the agent’s benefit or relates to a third party’s right.
This can arise in certain arrangements involving asset sales, security obligations, or contractual interests.
A clause describing a POA as “irrevocable” does not, by itself, determine the complete legal position. The underlying agreement, the reason for granting the authority, and the rights involved must be reviewed.
Can Revoking a Power of Attorney Result in Compensation?
In certain circumstances, a principal may be responsible for compensating an agent for damage caused by revocation at an inappropriate time or without an acceptable justification.
Article 899 of the UAE Civil Transactions Law addresses liability for harm arising from dismissal of the agent in these circumstances.
Therefore, the principal’s general right to revoke a POA should be distinguished from any possible compensation obligations.
Whether compensation is payable depends on the facts of the agency relationship and the applicable legal requirements.
How to Cancel a Power of Attorney Online in the UAE
Online Power of Attorney cancellation is available through certain UAE government and notarial service platforms.
The applicable service depends on the authority responsible for the document and the type of POA.
Power of Attorney Cancellation Through the Ministry of Justice
The UAE Ministry of Justice offers a Cancellation of Contracts and Deeds service for eligible notarised documents within its jurisdiction.
The published process includes:
- Sign in using UAE PASS.
- Select the relevant cancellation service.
- Submit the cancellation application.
- Attach the POA and any required supporting documents.
- Pay the service fees.
- Complete the electronic signature process.
- Receive the cancellation instrument.
Once the document has been issued, the principal should consider the required notification procedure.
The Ministry of Justice indicates that the applicant may subsequently arrange notification, warning, or protest through the postal service.
Receiving the cancellation instrument and proving that the agent has been notified are distinct matters.
Power of Attorney Cancellation in Dubai
The procedure for cancelling a POA in Dubai depends on the authority that notarised the document and the nature of the agency.
The applicant should first confirm the available cancellation procedure with the competent notary public or relevant Dubai authority.
After the cancellation instrument has been processed, a notarial notice or another accepted form of notification may be required, depending on the circumstances.
Applicants should not assume that preparing the cancellation document and notifying the agent always form part of one procedure.
Power of Attorney Cancellation in Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department provides notarial services relating to the cancellation of powers of attorney.
Depending on the relevant service and the wording of the POA, an application may concern the complete removal of an agent or the termination of particular delegated powers.
Applicants should confirm the current application form, supporting documents, fees, and electronic signing requirements before proceeding.
For assistance in identifying the appropriate notarial process, One Point Legal Services provides notary transaction support for documents and Powers of Attorney through the relevant authorities.
Documents Required for Power of Attorney Cancellation in UAE
The documents required to revoke a POA vary according to the issuing authority, the applicant’s legal capacity, and the nature of the document.
Common requirements may include:
- A copy of the existing Power of Attorney, or the original if required.
- Emirates ID or passport, according to the authority’s requirements.
- The principal’s and agent’s identifying information.
- A cancellation form or draft instrument where applicable.
- Evidence of the applicant’s authority to act for another person or company.
- Additional documents relating to rights or obligations connected to the POA.
Cancelling a Power of Attorney Issued by a Company
Where a POA was granted on behalf of a company, the person requesting cancellation must have the necessary authority to represent that company.
Supporting documents may include a valid trade licence, memorandum of association, articles of association, directors’ powers, or relevant corporate resolutions.
Being a shareholder or employee does not automatically authorise someone to revoke every POA issued by the company.
The company’s legal structure and internal authority arrangements must be reviewed.
Cancelling a POA Granted by Multiple Principals
If several principals granted the same POA, the cancellation request must identify whose authority is being withdrawn.
Depending on the wording of the document, the revocation may concern the authority granted by one principal without necessarily terminating the authority granted by others.
The legal consequences depend on the structure of the agency and the rights attached to it.
Cancelling a Foreign-Issued Power of Attorney
If a POA was issued outside the UAE, the appropriate revocation process depends on its country of origin, the authority that executed it, and how it has been used within the UAE.
It may be necessary to complete revocation procedures in the issuing country and then provide the resulting document to the relevant UAE authority.
Legal translation or document attestation may also be required.
Foreign-issued POAs should not be assumed to follow one universal cancellation procedure.
Important: This guide primarily addresses civil Powers of Attorney and notarised agency instruments. Registered commercial agencies may be governed by separate laws and procedures and should not automatically be treated in the same way.
Need to cancel a Power of Attorney in the UAE? One Point Legal Services can help you review your POA, understand the cancellation and notification requirements, and identify the appropriate procedure.
Or continue reading to explore the fees and legal procedures.
Power of Attorney Cancellation Fees in UAE 2026
Power of Attorney cancellation fees in the UAE depend on the competent authority, emirate, and type of notarial service.
There is no single fee that applies to every cancellation procedure across the UAE.
| Authority | Published fee or applicable rule |
|---|---|
| UAE Ministry of Justice | AED 200 for the Cancellation of Contracts and Deeds service |
| Abu Dhabi Judicial Department | An earlier service guide listed AED 100; the current amount should be confirmed before applying |
| Dubai notarial authorities | Fees depend on the applicable service and current official schedule |
The Ministry of Justice also publishes an estimated service duration of one day for its cancellation service, subject to the required documents and the service conditions.
Additional costs may arise for formal notification, legal notices, certified translations, document attestation, or assistance with preparing and coordinating the application.
The fee shown on the competent authority’s official platform at the time of submission should be used to confirm the actual government charge.
Does the Agent Need to Be Notified After POA Cancellation?
Notarising a POA cancellation and establishing that the agent knows about the revocation are two distinct matters.
The legal effect of a transaction following revocation may depend on when the agent became aware of the cancellation, the nature of the authority, and the rights involved.
Article 902 of the UAE Civil Transactions Law addresses actions taken by an agent in relation to knowledge of dismissal, including the legal effect of actions performed before the agent became aware of it.
Keeping evidence of notification is therefore important when seeking to establish that the agent was informed.
How to Notify an Agent of Power of Attorney Revocation
The appropriate method depends on the competent authority and the circumstances.
The process may involve:
- Preparing a notice identifying the principal, agent, and POA.
- Including the cancellation instrument’s reference number and date, where available.
- Serving the notice through a notarial or other accepted notification channel.
- Retaining evidence of delivery or formal service.
- Informing institutions that previously relied on the POA.
An ordinary message may not satisfy the evidence or service requirements applicable to every case.
Where formal proof is necessary, the accepted notification method should be confirmed with the relevant authority.
Should the Bank Be Notified When a Banking POA Is Cancelled?
If the POA has been used with a bank, the principal should provide the cancellation document to the bank and request an update to the authorised representative’s records.
A notarial cancellation does not necessarily trigger an automatic update across banking systems.
This distinction matters where the agent previously held authority to collect documents, operate an account, or initiate financial transactions.
For more details about the original scope of banking authority, see our guide to Banking Power of Attorney in UAE.
What Happens to Transactions That Are Still in Progress?
If a transaction has not been completed when the POA is revoked, the principal should determine its current status and whether any contractual obligations or third-party rights have already arisen.
Examples include a pending property sale, a banking instruction, or a business transaction.
The cancellation instrument should not automatically be treated as invalidating previously completed lawful acts or terminating existing contractual obligations.
The relevant authority or counterparty may need to be informed while the underlying transaction and supporting documents are reviewed.
General vs Special Power of Attorney Cancellation
A general POA and a special POA differ in the scope of the powers granted. However, the legal restrictions on revocation depend on the actual agency relationship and the rights attached to it.
| Point of comparison | General Power of Attorney | Special Power of Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of authority | Determined by the wording and legal limits of the instrument | Focused on particular acts or transactions |
| Purpose of cancellation | Terminate or restrict a broader range of powers | End authority over a specified matter |
| Transactions to review | May involve multiple organisations | Usually linked to a defined transaction |
| Agent or third-party rights | Must be considered where applicable | Must also be considered |
| Notification | Depends on the organisations involved | Depends on the relevant transaction |
Cancelling a General Power of Attorney
When revoking a general POA, the principal should identify every organisation that may have relied on the document.
This is particularly important if the agent has dealt with several banks, businesses, or other institutions.
The principal may need to submit the cancellation instrument separately to the relevant organisations to update their records.
Cancelling a Special Power of Attorney
A special POA is granted for particular acts, such as selling a vehicle, dealing with a bank, or representing a principal in a property transaction.
Before revoking it, the principal should check whether it was granted for the agent’s benefit or relates to a third party’s right under Article 898.
Revocation also does not automatically invalidate acts lawfully completed before the authority ended.
When Does a Power of Attorney Expire Without Revocation?
Under Article 897 of the UAE Civil Transactions Law, an agency may terminate when certain legal circumstances arise.
These include:
- Completion of the authorised task: The purpose for which the agent was appointed has been fulfilled.
- Expiry of the specified period: The POA reaches its agreed end date.
- Death or loss of legal capacity of the principal: Subject to the statutory provisions and relevant exceptions.
- Death or loss of legal capacity of the agent: Subject to the applicable statutory obligations and circumstances.
Termination by operation of law should be distinguished from revocation initiated by the principal under Article 898.
Article 903 also addresses sub-agencies: cancellation of the principal agency results in the cancellation of agencies derived from it under the statutory rule.
Although an agency may have legally ended, an organisation that previously relied on the POA may still request documents establishing that termination before updating its records.
Common Mistakes When Cancelling a Power of Attorney
Mistakes in the cancellation process may cause delays or disputes about the agent’s remaining authority.
The most important issues to avoid are:
- Failing to review the rights attached to the POA: Some agencies cannot be revoked unilaterally.
- Applying to the wrong authority: The competent notarial service must be identified first.
- Using incorrect document details: Check the POA number, date, and parties.
- Failing to notify the agent: This can create disputes about when the agent knew of the revocation.
- Not informing relevant organisations: Banks and other institutions may continue to hold earlier authorisation records.
- Assuming every past transaction becomes invalid: Previously completed lawful acts may have continuing effects.
- Overlooking unfinished transactions: Existing contractual and third-party rights must be considered.
Before submitting a request, prepare a list of the organisations that have used the POA and identify any pending matters.
Keep the cancellation instrument and notification records for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Power of Attorney Cancellation in UAE
How can I cancel a Power of Attorney in the UAE?
To cancel a Power of Attorney in the UAE, review the instrument and confirm that revocation is legally permitted. Then apply through the competent notary public or attestation authority, provide the required documents, pay the applicable fees, and complete notarisation. After receiving the cancellation instrument, follow the appropriate notification procedure and inform any organisations that previously relied on the POA.
Can I revoke a Power of Attorney without the agent's consent?
As a general rule, the principal can dismiss the agent or restrict the agent's authority under Article 898 of the UAE Civil Transactions Law. However, where the agency was established for the agent's benefit or a third party holds a relevant right, the consent of the rights holder is required. Article 899 may also apply where revocation causes compensable harm in the circumstances specified by law.
How much does it cost to cancel a Power of Attorney in the UAE?
The UAE Ministry of Justice publishes a fee of AED 200 for its Cancellation of Contracts and Deeds service. Local notarial fees vary. An earlier Abu Dhabi service guide listed AED 100, but applicants should confirm the current fee with the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. Notification, translation, courier, and service coordination charges may increase the total cost.
Can a Power of Attorney be cancelled online in the UAE?
Yes. Certain UAE notarial authorities allow eligible POA cancellation procedures to be completed online. The process may involve UAE PASS, document submission, electronic payment, and digital signing. However, the availability of online cancellation depends on the competent authority and document type. Additional notification or original-document requirements may still apply.
What is the difference between revocation and automatic expiry of a POA?
Revocation is an action taken by the principal to withdraw or restrict the agent's authority under Article 898 of the Civil Transactions Law. Automatic termination occurs when an event specified under Article 897 takes place, such as completion of the authorised task or expiry of the agency period. Both may require documentary evidence when organisations update their authorisation records.
Can I cancel a Power of Attorney for selling property?
It depends on the wording of the POA and the rights connected to the transaction. If the document is merely a revocable authorisation and no protected agent or third-party right prevents termination, revocation may be permitted. However, Article 898 restricts unilateral revocation in specified circumstances. The property agreement, pending transaction, and any rights already created should be reviewed before cancelling the authority.
What happens if the agent does not know the POA has been revoked?
The consequences depend on the type of agency, the transaction, and when the agent became aware of the revocation. Article 902 of the Civil Transactions Law addresses an agent's actions before and after knowledge of dismissal, including the effectiveness of acts completed before such knowledge in the circumstances covered by the provision. Formal notification and evidence of delivery can therefore be important.
Can I revoke a Power of Attorney issued outside the UAE?
Possibly, but the procedure depends on the issuing country, the authority that executed the document, and how it is being used in the UAE. Revocation may need to be completed in the country of origin, with the resulting instrument translated or attested for use by the relevant UAE authority. Cancellation in one jurisdiction should not automatically be assumed to update every organisation's records.
Conclusion
Power of Attorney Cancellation in UAE requires more than submitting a revocation request. The principal should first examine the wording of the agency, any rights held by the agent or third parties, and the status of ongoing transactions.
The correct process then involves the competent notarial authority, the relevant documents and fees, and appropriate notification of the agent and affected organisations.
One Point Legal Services can assist with reviewing the procedural requirements, identifying the relevant authority, preparing documentation, and coordinating available cancellation and notification services. Formal notarisation and the legal effect of revocation remain governed by UAE law and the competent authorities.
Official Legal Sources
- UAE Legislation – Federal Decree-Law No. 25 of 2025 Promulgating the Civil Transactions Law – Articles 897–903 on agency termination, revocation, liability, knowledge of dismissal, and sub-agencies.
- UAE Ministry of Justice – Cancellation of Contracts and Deeds – Application steps, required documents, fees, and service duration.
- Dubai Courts – Official Website – Dubai notarial services and legal notices.
- Abu Dhabi Judicial Department – Official Website – Abu Dhabi notarial services and Power of Attorney procedures.
Legal disclaimer: This article provides general information about UAE law and notarial procedures. It does not constitute legal advice for a particular Power of Attorney. Cancellation requirements, fees, and legal consequences depend on the competent authority, document wording, and circumstances of the transaction.
