Wills in UAE

Making a will ensures your assets, property, shares, and legacy are distributed according to your wishes. Whether you're a resident or an expatriate, registering a will in UAE gives clarity, legal certainty, and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Licence.ae helps you prepare and register your will properly under UAE laws.

What Is a Will under UAE Law?

A will is a legal document enabling you to specify how your assets – both movable and immovable – should be distributed upon your death. In UAE, the treatment differs based on religious and civil status. Muslims’ inheritance follows Sharia law while non-Muslims have more flexibility under the UAE civil personal status laws, especially after recent reforms.

Muslims vs Non-Muslims: Key Differences

• Muslims: Inheritance follows Sharia. Specific proportions of the estate are pre-allocated to heirs (spouse, children, parents). You can only distribute up to one-third of your estate through a will beyond these mandatory shares.
• Non-Muslims: Under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022, non-Muslims can specify that the law of their home country governs their will, or adopt UAE civil inheritance rules. If there is no valid will, civil inheritance rules apply.

Why Register a Will?

• Ensures your assets are distributed as per your wishes, avoiding ambiguity and disputes.
• Provides guardianship for minors where applicable.
• Helps prevent delays in accessing frozen bank accounts.
• Saves time and potential legal costs for your heirs.
• Ensures your business interests, including shares, are handled as you desire.
• Allows inclusion of creative/intangible assets such as IP/trademarks in the will.

Where to Register Wills in UAE

You can register your will at official authorities:

• Dubai: DIFC Wills Service Centre, Dubai Courts Notary Public.
• Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD).

Cost & Process

The cost of drafting a will depends on complexity (number of assets, whether immovable, business shares, multiple beneficiaries, etc.), translation requirements, and registration fees with the relevant authority. Licence.ae will guide you through transparent pricing and help you complete all steps correctly.

Steps to Create a Will in UAE

• Make an inventory of your movable & immovable assets + beneficiaries.
• Decide which legal framework applies (non-Muslim with home country law, civil personal status law, or Sharia for Muslims).
• Engage a legal expert or will-registrar experienced with UAE wills.
• Prepare documentation (passport, Emirates ID, asset documents, beneficiary details, etc.).
• Submit for registration at the relevant authority (DIFC, ADJD, or Dubai Courts).
• Review and update the will periodically to reflect changes in family, assets, legal status.