Without one, your estate may not be distributed according to your wishes, leading to complications and delays. Here’s why a UAE Will is essential and how it benefits you and your loved ones.

1. Ensures Your Assets Are Distributed According to Your Wishes

A UAE Will allows you to specify exactly how your assets—including property, bank accounts, and investments—should be distributed after your passing. Without one, inheritance laws will dictate the division of your estate, which may not align with your intentions.

2. Complies with the UAE Legal System

For Muslim residents, UAE inheritance laws generally follow Sharia law, which determines specific shares for family members. However, non-Muslims have the option to apply the inheritance laws of their home country through a legally registered UAE Will. Without a Will, default Sharia law may apply, which could lead to unexpected outcomes for expatriates.

3. Secures Property Ownership and Succession

If you own real estate in the UAE, a Will ensures a smooth transfer of ownership to your designated heirs. Without a Will, your property could be frozen while the courts determine rightful heirs, potentially causing financial difficulties for your family. For foreign investors, a UAE Will provides clarity, minimising bureaucratic hurdles.

4. Saves Time and Reduces Costs

A legally registered UAE Will helps streamline the inheritance process, preventing lengthy court proceedings and reducing legal costs. Without a Will, your estate may go through a complex probate process, causing unnecessary delays and expenses.

5. Protects the Interests of Your Family and Dependents

• Spouse and Children’s Rights: A Will ensures that your spouse and children receive the inheritance you intend for them.
• Guardianship for Minors: If you have minor children, a UAE Will allows you to designate a guardian in case both parents pass away, giving you peace of mind that they will be cared for by someone you trust.

6. Provides Peace of Mind

Having a UAE Will ensures that your loved ones won’t have to navigate a complex legal system during an already difficult time. Without one, the courts will decide on asset distribution, which may not reflect your wishes.

7. Tax and Financial Considerations

Although the UAE does not impose inheritance tax, administrative fees and other costs may apply. A well-drafted UAE Will can help manage the financial implications of estate distribution, reducing delays and unexpected expenses.

8. Access to the UAE Will Registry

The UAE allows expatriates to register their Wills with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Wills and Probate Registry, ensuring their Will is legally recognised. This adds an extra layer of legal certainty and simplifies the inheritance process.

Ensuring that you have a legally valid UAE Will can prevent unnecessary legal hurdles and protect your family’s financial future. We work with expert will draftsmen and solicitors in the UAE to provide you with the right advice tailored to your needs.

Contact us today and don’t leave your estate to chance—take control and secure your legacy with a UAE Will.

Jenna Jenkins is Managing Director at Luxe Incorporations.
[email protected]
+971 4 410 7278