Power of Attorney, MOA, and Other Legal Documents You Need to Know About

Power of Attorney, MOA, and Other Legal Documents You Need to Know About

Published on August 14, 2025 by HP Admin in Blog

Whether you're starting a business, buying property, or managing legal affairs in the UAE, understanding key legal documents is essential. Among the most important are the Power of Attorney (POA) and the Memorandum of Association (MOA), but there are several other documents that play a crucial role in ensuring your transactions and activities are legally sound and recognized by UAE authorities.

In this article, we’ll break down the most important legal documents you need to know about, their purpose, and when you might need them.

1. Power of Attorney (POA)

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants another person (the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) the authority to act on your behalf in legal or financial matters.

Common Uses in the UAE:

  • Property purchase or sale
  • Business management
  • Vehicle registration
  • Handling banking matters
  • Court representation

There are different types of POA:

  • General POA: Broad authority across a wide range of matters.
  • Special POA: Limited to specific tasks, such as selling a car or managing a property.

Important: A POA must be notarized and, if issued outside the UAE, attested by relevant embassies and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

 

2. Memorandum of Association (MOA)

A Memorandum of Association is a foundational document required when setting up a company in the UAE. It outlines the structure, ownership, activities, and responsibilities of the partners or shareholders.

Key Components:

  • Company name and address
  • Business activities
  • Shareholder information and capital contributions
  • Profit/loss distribution
  • Legal obligations of partners

The MOA must be signed before a notary public and approved by UAE government authorities. It plays a central role in company licensing and operations.

 

3. Articles of Association (AOA)

Often accompanying the MOA, the Articles of Association define the internal rules and procedures of the company. This includes:

  • Management structure
  • Voting rights
  • Board meetings
  • Transfer of shares

The AOA is especially important for corporate governance and avoiding internal disputes.

 

4. Local Service Agent (LSA) Agreement

For foreign-owned professional licenses, especially sole proprietorships, a Local Service Agent (UAE national) is required. The LSA agreement outlines the agent’s role, typically non-operational, and ensures compliance with UAE law.

Note: With recent reforms, 100% foreign ownership is now allowed in many sectors, but LSA agreements are still relevant in some professional and mainland setups.

 

5. Shareholder Agreement

While not mandatory, a Shareholder Agreement is highly recommended in any multi-partner setup. It protects the interests of shareholders and outlines:

  • Rights and obligations
  • Share transfer conditions
  • Dispute resolution processes

 

6. Trade License and Establishment Card

Though technically not contracts, these documents are legal proofs of a business’s registration and authorization to operate in the UAE. They are required for:

  • Opening bank accounts
  • Hiring employees
  • Participating in tenders

 

Why These Documents Matter

Failing to properly prepare and attest legal documents can lead to:

  • Delays in business setup
  • Rejection of property transactions
  • Visa and immigration complications
  • Legal disputes between partners or agents

Given the legal implications, these documents must be accurately drafted, translated (if necessary), notarized, and attested where required.

 

Let Experts Handle the Legal Paperwork

Navigating the legal landscape in the UAE can be complex, especially when it comes to drafting, notarizing, and attesting documents like POAs, MOAs, and shareholder agreements.

That’s why many professionals and business owners rely on premium legal and visa services to get it right the first time.

 

With our high-plan service, you get expert guidance, fast-tracked documentation, and peace of mind, so you can focus on growing your business or managing your personal affairs, while we handle the legal complexities.

 

Need help with drafting or attesting a Power of Attorney or company documents? Get in touch with our expert team and let us simplify the process for you.

Let's Get Started!