Personal Authorization Letter Template for Saudi Arabia

A Personal Authorization Letter is a legally binding document that allows you to formally delegate specific powers and responsibilities to another person in Saudi Arabia. This authorization serves as official proof that your chosen representative can act on your behalf for designated matters, whether business transactions, government procedures, or personal affairs.

When do you need this document?

You'll need a Personal Authorization Letter when you cannot personally attend to important matters in Saudi Arabia. Common situations include authorizing someone to handle bank transactions while you're traveling, appointing a representative to manage property sales or purchases, or delegating authority for government document collection. Expatriate workers frequently use these letters to authorize family members or trusted individuals to handle visa renewals, employment contract modifications, or educational enrollments for their children. Business owners also rely on authorization letters to empower employees or partners to sign contracts, collect payments, or represent the company in official proceedings.

Key legal considerations

Your authorization letter must clearly define the scope of powers being granted and any limitations on the authorized person's authority. Under Saudi law, you cannot delegate powers that require your personal presence by law, such as marriage contracts or certain judicial proceedings. The document must include complete identification details for both you and your authorized representative, including full names, national ID or Iqama numbers, and contact information. Duration clauses are critical – specify whether the authorization is temporary with specific end dates or ongoing until revoked. Include witness information and ensure proper signature procedures, as Islamic law principles require clear evidence of your voluntary consent to the delegation of authority.

Legal requirements in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabian law mandates that Personal Authorization Letters comply with both Sharia principles and the Civil Procedures Law. Your document must be written in Arabic or include certified Arabic translations for legal validity. Authentication through the Ministry of Justice or authorized notary public is typically required, followed by potential attestation from relevant government authorities depending on the letter's purpose. The Basic Law of Governance establishes that all legal documents must align with Islamic law, particularly the concept of Wakala (delegation of authority). Your authorization letter must include the Hijri date alongside the Gregorian date and specify the location of execution. For international use or cross-border transactions, additional authentication through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs may be necessary. Ensure your authorized person presents proper identification when acting under your authority, as government offices and financial institutions will verify both the letter's authenticity and the representative's identity before accepting the delegation.