Planning for the future is vital for protecting your assets and ensuring your loved ones are cared for.
In Dubai, Law No. (15) of 2017 regulates the creation of wills by non-Muslims that specify how their estate will be distributed after their passing.
This law provides a framework for registering and executing wills.
The DIFC Courts Wills Service offers various registration options to ensure legal recognition of asset distribution and guardianship.
This article clarifies the legal framework around wills in Dubai and outlines our law firm’s services for will drafting, registration, and estate administration in 2025.
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Table of Contents
Understanding Wills in Dubai
Dubai has specific laws governing wills for non-Muslims, ensuring their estates are distributed according to their wishes.
Law No. (15) of 2017 regulates the administration of estates and the implementation of wills for non-Muslims.
This law applies to all wills and estates in Dubai, including the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
Non-Muslims can register their wills in Dubai Courts or DIFC Courts to ensure that their assets and guardianship preferences for minor children are legally recognized.
The law allows testators to choose the governing law for their will, except in cases involving:
- Real property in Dubai.
- Contradictions with public order.
- The testator opted for UAE law.
Key Legal Aspects of Dubai Wills
Understanding the legal framework for wills in Dubai is essential for non-Muslims who wish to ensure their estate is managed according to their wishes.
Here are some of the most important legal considerations:
Wills Take Precedence Over Intestate Succession
Will Writing in UAE overrides the default inheritance laws. However, certain liabilities must be settled before an estate can be distributed.
These include funeral expenses, administrative costs, executor fees, and outstanding debts.
Legal Requirements for Registering a Will
For a will to be legally valid in Dubai, the testator must:
Be a non-Muslim.
Be at least 21 years old.
Appoint an executor to manage the estate.
Specify how assets will be distributed.
Sign the will in the presence of two witnesses.
Ensure that the will does not contradict public order or morals.
Types of Wills Available in DIFC Courts
Non-Muslims can register different types of wills based on their specific needs:
Full Will – Covers all assets in the UAE, including movable and immovable property, and appoints guardians for minor children.
Guardianship Will – Focuses only on appointing guardians for minor children.
Property Will – Covers up to five real estate properties in the UAE.
Business Owners Will – Covers up to five UAE-based business shareholdings.
Financial Assets Will – Covers up to ten bank or brokerage accounts in the UAE.
Wills Legal Requirements and Considerations in Dubai
When creating a will in Dubai, non-Muslims must comply with specific legal requirements to ensure the will is valid and enforceable.
Additionally, there are important considerations regarding residency, foreign assets, and dispute resolution.
Understanding these factors helps individuals make informed decisions about estate planning.
Residency and Eligibility for Registering a Will
Non-Muslims can register a will in Dubai regardless of their residency status. A person does not need to be a UAE resident to create and register a DIFC Courts Will.
Inclusion of Foreign Assets
A DIFC Full Will can include assets located outside the UAE. However, the execution of the will in foreign jurisdictions depends on the local inheritance laws of the country where the assets are held.
Testators should seek legal advice to confirm enforceability.
Appointment of Executors and Guardians
Executors or guardians named in the will are not required to be UAE residents. This flexibility allows testators to appoint trusted individuals regardless of their location.
Modification and Revocation of Wills
The testator can amend, revoke, or replace a will at any time. If multiple wills exist, the most recently registered will takes precedence.
If a new will contradicts a previous one, the latter will be considered invalid.
Dispute Resolution and Jurisdiction
Legal disputes related to wills are handled by the Dubai Courts or DIFC Courts, depending on where the will is registered.
The courts ensure that the estate is administered according to the testator’s wishes while complying with local legal requirements.
By understanding these legal aspects, individuals can ensure their will is properly structured and legally enforceable, providing clarity and protection for their assets and beneficiaries.
Wills Legal Services in Dubai
Our law firm in UAE provides specialized legal services related to wills in Dubai, ensuring compliance with local laws and protecting clients’ interests. Our services include:
Drafting and Registering Wills – Ensuring compliance with Dubai and DIFC Courts requirements.
Legal Advice on Estate Planning – Helping clients choose the right type of will based on their assets and needs.
Executor and Guardian Appointment – Assisting in selecting and legally appointing executors and guardians.
Will Contestation and Dispute Resolution – Representing clients in legal disputes over wills.
Estate Administration – Handling legal processes for estate management and distribution.
Updating and Revoking Wills – Assisting with modifications or revocations of wills.
Our experienced team ensures that wills are legally sound, properly registered, and enforceable, giving clients peace of mind that their assets and loved ones are protected.
FAQs about Wills in UAE
Conclusion.
Creating a will in Dubai is a crucial step for non-Muslims to ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes.
Law No. (15) of 2017 and the DIFC Courts Wills Service provide clear legal procedures for drafting, registering, and executing wills.
Individuals can safeguard their estates and loved ones by working with a legal expert while complying with Dubai’s legal framework.
Contact our law firm in UAE for expert help with will drafting, registration, or estate planning in Dubai. Click the WhatsApp icon below.
A law graduate and legal writer focusing on UAE law, he became known for his ability to clarify complex legal concepts through his writings. His work simplifies the intricacies of the legal landscape in the Emirates, helping both locals and expatriates navigate their legal concerns.
