Q: What is the process for registering a Will in the UAE courts for non-muslim expats? Also, what is the process for execution of the Will?

Q: I have some savings in banks and national bonds in my name and gratuity with the company. I am working in a private sector company in Dubai since 2013. I have 2 minor kids and a wife in Dubai. Can anyone advise what is the best plan to safeguard them if anything happens to me? Thanks

Q: I am a Pakistani citizen living in the UAE. I want a legal will and testament written and attested by the UAE bodies so God forbids if I die, I want my assets to go into the right hands. How is it possible in the UAE for an expatriate? Kindly advise.

Q: I have a flat in Dubai but live in the UK. How do I ensure it gets passed to my children should anything happen to me?

Q: Hi sir, In the UAE, how many years is the validity of a POA given to a person? This is not for a company purpose. Can I give a POA for 10 years or more; or it has to be renewed?

An interview-format article covering reasons why a non-Muslim expatriate should have a will in the UAE. This is from the legal podcast of lawyer Ludmila Yamalova, the founder of Lawgical with LYLAW. Ludmila sheds light in this article on the right time and place to start the procedure based on tested practices in the UAE.

In 2016, Dubai introduced an exceptionally unique solution to entertain basic asset protection needs to Foreign Investors and Expat Residents living in Dubai. They can now be 100% sure their assets are fully protected against any problems that may arise because of the forced heirship system applied by the Sharia Regulations in the United Arab Emirates, or any other conflict between the religious laws of succession between the person and the state where he lives and invests.

The article states the currently available options on how to set up a Will in the UAE. The expatriate (non-Muslim) testator has several options on how to protect the assets in the UAE and how to appoint guardians for the minor child(ren) habitually residing in the Emirates.

The United Arab Emirates is a Sharia-Law country with respect to personal status and inheritance. In accordance with the UAE legislation, the UAE Courts will adhere to Sharia Law in a situation where there is no proper Will in place.

An interview-format article covering the topic of the new amendments to the laws in the UAE. This is from the legal podcast of lawyer Ludmila Yamalova, the founder of Lawgical with LYLAW.

A new civil personal status decree has been introduced in the emirate of Abu Dhabi by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and the Ruler of Abu Dhabi. This personal status decree will be applicable for non-Muslim foreigners based in Abu Dhabi in matters of marriage, divorce, Will, inheritance, and custody of children.

UAE Personal Status Law (also known as Personal Affairs Law) governs marriage, divorce, inheritance and other personal affairs in the United Arab Emirates. The law equally applies to citizens of the UAE and non-citizens unless one of them asks for the application of his home country law.

The provisions of this law, promulgating UAE Civil Code, govern the civil transactions in the United Arab Emirates. The commercial transactions remain subject to the laws and regulations applicable in their regard.