How to Register a Vehicle Through Power of Attorney in Dubai
Registering a vehicle in Dubai is a legal requirement before it can be driven on UAE roads. However, there are situations where the owner cannot personally visit the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or other vehicle registration centers. In these cases, a Vehicle Power of Attorney (POA) allows an authorized representative to complete the registration process on the owner's behalf.
Whether you are living overseas, traveling, managing multiple vehicles, or simply unable to visit an RTA service center, a properly drafted and notarized Power of Attorney can make the process smooth and legally compliant. For a broader overview of how these documents apply to all vehicle transactions, see our Car Power of Attorney Dubai guide.
This guide explains everything you need to know about registering a vehicle through a Power of Attorney in Dubai, including eligibility, required documents, legal requirements, step-by-step procedures, common mistakes, and expert recommendations.
What Is a Vehicle Power of Attorney?
A Vehicle Power of Attorney is a legal document that authorizes another individual or company representative to perform vehicle-related transactions on behalf of the vehicle owner.
Depending on how it is drafted, the representative may be authorized to:
Register a vehicle
Renew vehicle registration
Transfer vehicle ownership
Sell a vehicle
Purchase a vehicle
Export a vehicle
Complete RTA formalities
Sign registration documents
The authority granted depends entirely on the wording of the POA.
Can Someone Register My Vehicle in Dubai?
Yes.
Dubai law allows another person to register your vehicle if they possess a legally valid and notarized Power of Attorney that specifically authorizes vehicle registration.
The representative must present:
Original or digital POA
Valid identification
Supporting vehicle documents
Any additional documents requested by the RTA
Why People Use a Vehicle Registration POA
Many vehicle owners use a POA because they are:
Living outside the UAE
Traveling for business
Working offshore
Hospitalized
Busy professionals
Corporate vehicle owners
Investors managing multiple assets
Instead of delaying registration, they appoint someone they trust.
Legal Requirements for Vehicle Registration Through POA
To be accepted by the relevant authorities, the Power of Attorney should generally meet the following requirements:
1. Clearly Mention Vehicle Registration Authority
The POA should expressly authorize the attorney-in-fact to:
Register the vehicle
Submit documents
Sign applications
Complete RTA procedures
Pay applicable registration fees
General wording may not always be sufficient.
2. Proper Notarization
The POA should be notarized through the appropriate UAE legal process, in accordance with requirements set by the UAE Ministry of Justice, before it is used.
If issued outside the UAE, additional legalization and attestation requirements through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) may apply before acceptance.
3. Valid Identification
Both parties should have valid identification documents.
These may include:
Emirates ID
Passport
UAE Visa (where applicable)
Documents Required for Vehicle Registration Using a POA
The exact requirements may vary depending on the transaction, but commonly requested documents include:
From the Vehicle Owner
Original Emirates ID (if required)
Passport copy
Existing Mulkiya (Registration Card)
Vehicle ownership documents
Insurance certificate
Vehicle inspection certificate (where applicable)
Valid Power of Attorney
From the Attorney-in-Fact
Emirates ID
Passport
Copy of the Power of Attorney
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Vehicle Through Power of Attorney
Step 1: Draft the Vehicle Power of Attorney
The document should clearly specify the representative's authority. The powers should include:
Vehicle registration
Signing documents
Completing RTA procedures
Paying applicable fees
Receiving registration documents
Precise drafting helps avoid unnecessary delays.
Step 2: Complete Notarization
The Power of Attorney should be notarized through the appropriate legal channels. Online notarization may be available for eligible applicants, depending on their circumstances.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Prepare all supporting documentation before visiting the registration center. Missing paperwork is one of the most common reasons for delays.
Step 4: Visit an RTA Registration Center
The authorized representative submits:
Power of Attorney
Vehicle documents
Identification
Insurance
Inspection report (if required)
Step 5: Pay Registration Fees
The representative pays all applicable government fees. The amount depends on:
Vehicle type
Registration service
Ownership category
Step 6: Receive Registration Documents
Once approved, the representative receives:
Updated Registration Card (Mulkiya)
Registration confirmation
Number plate services (if applicable)
The vehicle is then legally registered.
When Is a Vehicle Inspection Required?
A vehicle inspection may be required when:
Registering a used vehicle
Renewing an expired registration
Completing ownership transfers
Importing vehicles
The inspection confirms that the vehicle meets UAE road safety standards.
Can Non-Residents Register a Vehicle Through a POA?
Yes, in many situations.
Property owners, overseas investors, expatriates, and UAE nationals living abroad frequently use a notarized Power of Attorney to authorize trusted representatives to complete vehicle-related transactions.
Additional documentation may be required depending on residency status and the nature of the transaction.
Common Mistakes That Delay Vehicle Registration
Many registration applications are delayed because of avoidable mistakes.
Using a General POA
A general authorization may not specifically cover vehicle registration. A Special Vehicle Power of Attorney is often the safer choice.
Missing Registration Authority
The document should clearly authorize vehicle registration. Vague wording can lead to rejection.
Expired Identification
Ensure all IDs and passports remain valid.
Missing Vehicle Documents
Double-check that:
Insurance is valid
Inspection is complete
Registration documents are available
Incorrect Personal Information
Even small spelling mistakes can delay approval. Verify:
Passport numbers
Emirates ID
Vehicle details
Chassis number
Benefits of Registering a Vehicle Through a POA
Using a Vehicle Power of Attorney offers several advantages:
Saves Time — No need for the owner to visit Dubai personally.
Ideal for Overseas Owners — Perfect for UAE residents working abroad or international investors.
Legally Recognized — A properly notarized POA is legally accepted for authorized vehicle transactions.
Convenient — A representative can complete the registration while the owner focuses on work, travel, or other commitments.
Faster Processing — Proper documentation minimizes delays and repeat visits.
Who Can Be Appointed?
The vehicle owner may appoint:
A family member
A trusted friend
A lawyer
A legal consultant
A company representative
The appointed person should be trustworthy, as they will act on the owner's behalf.
Why Choose a Special Vehicle POA?
A Special Power of Attorney is tailored to a specific transaction, such as vehicle registration. It clearly defines the representative's authority, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and increasing the likelihood of smooth processing with the relevant authorities. Our Car Power of Attorney services in Dubai team can help you draft one tailored to your exact transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone register my car without me being present?
Yes. A properly executed Vehicle Power of Attorney allows an authorized representative to complete the registration process on your behalf.
Can I register my vehicle while living outside the UAE?
Yes. Many overseas owners use a notarized POA to authorize someone in Dubai to handle the registration.
Is a digital POA accepted?
Depending on the circumstances and current legal procedures, digitally notarized POAs may be accepted where recognized by the relevant authorities.
Can the same POA be used for selling the vehicle?
Only if the document specifically includes the authority to sell the vehicle. Registration authority alone does not automatically permit a sale.
Does the POA need notarization?
Yes. A Power of Attorney generally needs to be properly notarized to be legally valid for vehicle registration transactions.
Final Thoughts
Registering a vehicle through a Power of Attorney in Dubai is a practical and legally recognized solution for owners who cannot complete the process themselves. By preparing a properly drafted and notarized Vehicle POA, gathering the necessary documentation, and ensuring the representative has the required authority, the registration process can be completed efficiently and in compliance with UAE requirements.
Whether you are an overseas resident, a busy professional, or managing multiple vehicles, using a Vehicle Power of Attorney helps simplify registration while ensuring your interests are legally protected. Get started with our Car Power of Attorney Dubai services.