Does a power of attorney need to be notarised to be valid in the UAE?

For most meaningful UAE uses, yes: a POA needs notarisation by a notary public to be accepted by courts, government departments, banks, and the land registry, including for property transfers, litigation, company affairs, or significant financial transactions. An unnotarised letter of authority may serve minor informal matters but usually not official dealings; notarisation gives the POA its evidentiary weight. POAs are typically in Arabic or bilingual, since the Arabic text governs officially. Requirements can differ between emirates and between mainland and free-zone authorities such as DIFC or ADGM. Full guide: Power of Attorney in the UAE. If unsure, compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI.