Protect Your Family, Secure Your Assets with Precision Legal Consultancy
Without a registered Will, inheritance cases in the UAE can become lengthy, complex, and costly. Understanding how inheritance and succession laws work is crucial for every expatriate living and investing in the UAE.
At Precision Legal Consultancy, we specialize in UAE inheritance law, wills drafting, succession planning, and estate administration—helping expats ensure that their loved ones and assets are fully protected in accordance with their wishes.
Quick Summary – Wills for Expats in the UAE
Without a Will, inheritance matters can become complicated and delayed.
Muslims vs. Non-Muslims: Sharia law applies to Muslims, while non-Muslims can opt for the UAE Personal Status Law for Non-Muslims.
Dubai Courts, DIFC, and ADJD each offer different options, processes, and benefits.
Bank accounts freeze immediately upon death until all liabilities are cleared and inheritance is settled.
Guardianship of minor children is determined by the UAE courts if not explicitly mentioned in a Will.
Why Should Expats Draft a Will in the UAE?
Over the past few decades, the UAE has become a global hub for investment, property ownership, and business opportunities. Expats often hold substantial assets—real estate, companies, and bank accounts—within the UAE. However, most are unaware that without a registered Will, these assets may be distributed under Sharia law, regardless of personal or cultural preferences.
A Will ensures:
Your estate passes to your chosen heirs.
Guardianship of your children is clearly assigned.
Your business and property are protected from disputes or freezes.
You save time, cost, and emotional stress for your family.
Wills for Muslims in the UAE
Muslims in the UAE are governed by Sharia law. Upon death, local courts distribute the deceased’s property and appoint guardians in accordance with Islamic principles.
Muslim individuals can register a Will at the Personal Status Court, provided it complies fully with Sharia principles. For Muslims seeking more structured wealth transfer, family foundations and trusts under ADGM or DIFC frameworks can offer additional estate planning options.
Wills for Non-Muslim Expats in the UAE
Non-Muslims in the UAE now benefit from the Personal Status Law for Non-Muslims, allowing them to choose how their estate is distributed—without default application of Sharia.
If a non-Muslim passes away without a Will, the family must open an inheritance case in the UAE courts, which typically takes 6 to 12 months. This process involves:
Paying court and government fees.
Translating and attesting documents into Arabic.
Navigating guardianship rules for minor children.
Freezing of bank accounts until debts are cleared and distribution is ordered.
Drafting a Will through an authorized UAE registry avoids these complications and ensures a smooth transition.
How to Draft a Will in the UAE
There are three recognized authorities for registering Wills in the UAE, each suited for different residents and asset profiles:
1. Dubai Court Wills
Available for residents and non-Muslims.
Drafted in English and Arabic.
Requires attested marriage and birth certificates to prove relationships.
2. DIFC Wills (Dubai International Financial Centre)
Based on Common Law.
Drafted in English only and covers UAE or worldwide assets.
Suitable for residents and non-residents.
Requires two witnesses during registration.
3. ADJD Wills (Abu Dhabi Judicial Department)
Available for Muslims and non-Muslims, residents and non-residents.
Drafted in English and Arabic.
Recognized across all Emirates.
Each authority has unique legal requirements, benefits, and cost structures. Our legal team helps you select the most effective and compliant option for your situation.
Execution of Wills in the UAE
- Dubai Court Wills: Inheritance cases are still opened through the Dubai Court, but the registered Will accelerates distribution, typically resolving within 3–6 months.
- DIFC & ADJD Wills: These Wills allow direct re-registration of inheritance without opening a probate case, significantly simplifying execution.
At Precision Legal, we manage the full process—from drafting to registration and execution—to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for your family.
Advanced Estate Planning for the UAE
For individuals seeking more sophisticated succession structures, DIFC and ADGM Foundations provide excellent vehicles for asset protection and wealth transfer. These structures enable families to pass wealth from generation to generation while maintaining control and privacy.
Our Estate Planning Department advises clients on:
- Foundations & Trusts
- Corporate Succession for Business Owners
- Power of Attorney & Guardianship Declarations
- Cross-Border Inheritance Planning
Need Help Drafting or Registering a Will in the UAE?
At Precision Legal Consultancy, our experienced team of legal consultants and will specialists offer:
Personalized consultation and advice
Expert drafting in English and Arabic
End-to-end assistance through registration at DIFC, ADJD, or Dubai Courts
Transparent fees and timeline management
📞 +971 52 472 1524
📧 info@precisionlegal.ae
🌐 www.precisionlegal.ae
Precision Legal Consultancy — Protecting What Matters Most.