Marriage in the UAE involves several legal and procedural requirements, especially for expat couples navigating documentation across multiple jurisdictions. One aspect that often raises questions is the use of a power of attorney in Dubai, particularly during marriage-related formalities, such as preparing and signing a prenuptial agreement.
In many communities, the father of the bride plays a significant role in the marriage contract. In Dubai, particularly, when the father of the bride cannot attend in person, a specific marriage power of attorney is issued, so another trusted individual can represent him.

At the same time, couples sometimes require a separate authority for signing a prenuptial agreement. This is where a General POA, not a Marriage POA, becomes important.

To navigate these distinctions clearly, couples must understand what each of these POAs covers and what sets them apart.

What is a Prenuptial Agreement?

A prenuptial agreement, or a ‘prenup’ as it is colloquially referred to, is a legally binding document executed by two individuals before their marriage. The contract is signed by both individuals entering a marriage to outline how assets, finances, and responsibilities will be managed during the union and in the event of a separation. Setting expectations in advance clarifies matters and protects both parties legally.

A prenuptial agreement typically refers to:

  • Ownership of assets before and during the marriage
  • Financial responsibilities
  • Rights in the event of a separation or a divorce
  • Protection of personal or family assets

A key point to be noted for UAE expats is that prenuptial agreements must follow proper notarization and attestation protocol to be recognized. For this reason, the attendance of both parties or their authorized representatives under a General POA is essential.

Marriage POAs in the UAE

A Marriage power of attorney in Dubai allows the bride’s father or legal guardian to appoint another adult to represent him during the marriage registration process. This gains paramount importance, especially when the bride’s father is located outside the country and cannot be physically present for the signing of the marriage contract or related court appointments.

A Marriage POA typically grants powers such as representing the bride’s father/legal guardian before the courts and concerned government departments.

  • Signing of all paperwork required for the marriage.
  • Providing official consent on behalf of the guardian, as often required under specific marriage procedures.

Since Dubai Courts require the consent of the guardian to be documented, especially in the case of Muslim marriages, a marriage POA becomes essential when attendance is not possible.

A Marriage POA is limited in scope and only covers guardian-related marriage protocols. It does not extend to the signing of personal contracts or prenuptial agreements, unless those powers are explicitly mentioned, which is not common in UAE notary systems.

Where Does a Prenuptial Agreement Fit into All of This?

A flawed misconception is that a Marriage POA authorizes the representative to handle all marriage-related paperwork, including a prenuptial agreement. It does not. A Marriage POA only covers powers related to the marriage contract and guardian representation. It does not automatically permit the representative to sign contracts like a prenuptial agreement. This is where a general POA becomes relevant.

How a Prenup is Executed Through a General POA

If either the bride or the groom cannot attend the signing of the prenuptial agreement, the process can be completed through a well-drafted General POA. This document authorizes a representative to

Sign agreements on behalf of the principal (including prenuptial agreements if explicitly stated)

  • Submit the document for notarization and attestation
  • Liaise with government bodies or consulates
  • Handle administrative steps related to the contract

A properly drafted General POA already includes the authority needed to sign most types of personal or financial agreements, so the prenuptial agreement automatically falls under its scope.

The distinction is important:

Marriage POA: Used only for guardian representation in the marriage contract
General POA: Grants broader authority and is the correct legal instrument for signing a prenuptial agreement on behalf of one of the parties.

UAE Marriage POAs and prenuptial agreements must follow specific signing, notarization, and attestation rules. When executed abroad, additional embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs steps may be required.

A valid POA ensures those steps are completed correctly, even if a key party cannot be present. With the growing number of expat marriages and varied backgrounds, combining a Marriage POA with a General POA removes uncertainty and helps couples confidently complete all required documentation.

Irrespective of whether you need a Marriage POA for guardian representation or a General POA that allows signing of your prenuptial agreement, you can trust MakeMyPOA for drafting POAs specifically tailored to UAE marriage procedures and prenuptial agreements. Start your marriage POA or General POA with MakeMyPOA today.