Will registration in the UAE

In the UAE, planning your estate is crucial to ensuring your family’s financial security and peace of mind. Without a legally registered will, your assets may be distributed according to local inheritance laws, which may not align with your wishes, especially for expatriates. Here’s why you need to consider making a will and where you can do it.

Why Is It Important to Register a Will in the UAE?

In the UAE, the inheritance laws are governed by Sharia law, which applies to both expatriates and UAE nationals. This means that without a legally recognized will, your assets may not be distributed in the way you would want, leading to potential family disputes and legal complications. For expats, this is especially critical as local laws may not follow the norms of your home country. By registering a will, you can ensure that your estate is distributed according to your wishes, reducing the risk of complications.

Who Can Register a Will in the UAE?

Anyone over the age of 21 can register a will in the UAE, whether you're an expatriate or a UAE national. However, for expatriates, this is especially important. If you do not have a will, local inheritance laws could apply, which may not reflect your personal wishes.

Where Can You Register a Will?

1. DIFC Wills Registry (Dubai)

For expats residing in Dubai, the DIFC Wills Registry allows you to register your will legally. It ensures that your estate is governed by the will in accordance with the laws of the DIFC, providing a framework that protects your wishes.

2. Abu Dhabi Judicial Department

If you are based in Abu Dhabi, you can register your will with the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. This process ensures that your will is legally recognized and enforceable under the jurisdiction of Abu Dhabi’s courts.

Key Requirements for a Will in the UAE

When drafting your will in the UAE, you need to ensure that it is comprehensive and clear. Here are the essential components:

1. Clear Asset Distribution Plan

Your will should specify how your assets will be distributed among your beneficiaries. This includes properties, bank accounts, investments, and any other valuable assets.

2. List of Beneficiaries

Clearly outline the names of the individuals or organizations you wish to inherit your assets.

3. Debt Settlement Instructions

Include detailed instructions on how your debts should be settled, ensuring that your beneficiaries are not burdened with unresolved financial obligations.

Benefits of Registering Your Will

1. Avoiding Court Disputes

A registered Will helps prevent disputes between family members over your estate. By clearly stating your intentions, you reduce the likelihood of disagreements and ensure a smooth distribution of assets.

2. Ensuring Your Wishes Are Followed

Your will acts as a legally binding document that ensures your wishes will be respected, avoiding the application of Sharia inheritance laws or local laws that may differ from your desires.

3. Protecting Your Family

By registering a will, you safeguard your family’s future, ensuring they are financially secure and that your legacy is preserved.

Take Action Today!

Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. Register your will today to avoid unnecessary complications and ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. The process is straightforward, and the peace of mind it brings is invaluable.

Act now to protect your loved ones, secure your legacy, and ensure your wishes are followed!

Sources:

DIFC Wills & Probate Registry. (2023). Wills Registry for Non-Muslims. Retrieved from https://www.difc.ae
Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. (2023). Wills Registration for Expats in Abu Dhabi. Retrieved from https://www.adjd.gov.ae
Ministry of Justice, UAE. (2023). Inheritance Law in the UAE. Retrieved from https://www.moj.gov.ae

Written by:

Fatehi Ahmed Shared | Ahkam Legal Consultancy