01Why a UAE will matters for expats
In the UAE, if a non-Muslim expatriate dies without a registered will, their UAE assets — property, bank accounts, company shares, investments — fall under UAE Personal Status Law. In the absence of a will, this defaults to Sharia principles of inheritance, which may distribute assets in ways that differ significantly from the deceased's intentions or their home country's legal norms.
The probate process without a will is also far more complex: it involves UAE court proceedings, potential asset freezes and a resolution timeline of 1–3 years. Bank accounts are typically frozen at the time of death. A registered will dramatically simplifies the process for your heirs.
02With a will vs without a will
| With a registered will | Without a will | |
|---|---|---|
| Inheritance process | Clear, simple and predictable for your heirs | Complex UAE court proceedings required |
| Distribution of assets | According to your instructions | May follow Sharia defaults or a court decision |
| Time to settle | Approximately 3 months | 1–3 years |
| Access to bank accounts | Heirs gain access within weeks | Frozen until a court order — potentially for years |
| Guardianship of minor children | Specified in the will | Uncertain |
| Costs for heirs | Already covered by the cost of the will — no additional legal fees | Legal fees of $10,000 or more |
03Two legal frameworks available
Expats in the UAE have a meaningful choice when it comes to which legal system governs their UAE will. The right choice depends on your asset profile, nationality, long-term plans and which governing law you prefer.
UAE Civil Court
- Governed by local UAE law
- Most common choice — suits most expats
- Best for expats with UAE property, bank accounts or company shares
- Covers assets across all Emirates and is widely recognised there
- Bilingual: English + Arabic
- Lower notarisation costs
ADGM / DIFC
- Common law — governed by English law
- Suits DIFC/ADGM company shareholders and people with existing UK-registered wills
- A familiar legal environment for those who have worked in the UK
- Widely recognised by international banks
- Flexible distribution of assets
- DIFC Wills Service Centre is the most established platform for this
We advise on the right framework during the initial consultation — there is rarely a wrong answer, but there is usually a better fit based on your specific circumstances.
04Who needs a UAE will
- Expats with property in the UAE — an apartment, villa or commercial space
- Business owners in the UAE — company shares, trade licences, assets
- Holders of UAE bank accounts and investments
- Anyone who wants their assets distributed according to their own wishes rather than Sharia defaults
- DIFC and ADGM clients who prefer the British legal system
05What a UAE will can cover
- UAE real estate (apartments, villas, commercial property)
- UAE bank accounts and investment portfolios
- Shares in UAE-registered companies (Free Zone and Mainland)
- Vehicles and personal possessions located in the UAE
- Guardianship designation for minor children residing in the UAE
- Business succession instructions
06Process overview
Initial consultation — remote (Zoom)
We assess your asset profile, family situation and objectives, recommend the appropriate legal framework (UAE Civil Court or British law) and outline the scope of the will.
Document verification
We collect and verify passports, title deeds, bank statements and company documents relevant to the assets covered by the will.
Will drafting
Our legal team drafts the will in the required format for the chosen framework. You review and approve the final text before any notarisation.
Notarisation & registration
The will is notarised and registered with the appropriate authority — DIFC Wills Service Centre, ADGM or UAE Notary Public. This step creates the official registry record.
07Updating an existing will
Life events — acquiring property, having children, changing a beneficiary, setting up a new company — may require updating your will. We handle amendments and codicils for existing registered wills. Contact us to review whether your current will still reflects your intentions.