Making a Will in Dubai may not be the first thing on your mind, but it’s one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and secure your assets. Without a Will, UAE inheritance laws, particularly Sharia principles for non-Muslims could determine how your estate is divided, often in ways you never intended, While there is an option
The good news? You don’t necessarily need a lawyer to create a legally valid Will in Dubai. By understanding the rules, choosing the right authority. However, even a small error can affect its validity. That’s why seeking professional assistance is recommended, to ensure your Will is enforceable, compliant, and truly safeguards your family and assets.
Whether DIFC, Dubai Courts, or ADJD Wills and following a clear process, you can draft and register a DIY Will that reflects your wishes and gives your loved ones peace of mind.
Why Wills in Dubai Are Essential
A Will in Dubai is critical because, without one, UAE inheritance laws, particularly Sharia law for non-Muslims, may dictate asset distribution in ways that don’t align with your intentions. This could lead to frozen bank accounts or unexpected guardianship assignments for minor children. A legally binding Will ensures your assets are allocated as desired, guardians are appointed, and the probate process is streamlined, saving your family time and stress.
Understanding UAE Legal Frameworks for Wills in UAE
DIFC Wills operate under English common law, offering testamentary freedom to distribute global assets and avoid Sharia law. Dubai Courts wills and ADJD Wills are also viable, though Dubai Courts may require Arabic translations for compliance.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a DIY Will in Dubai
1. Confirm Eligibility and Select Will Type
To draft a legally valid Will in Dubai, you must be at least 21 and of sound mind. Choose the appropriate Will type:
- DIFC Wills: Best for non-Muslims with assets in Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah, covering global assets.
- Dubai Courts Wills: Suitable for UAE-wide assets but may involve Sharia principles unless specified.
- ADJD Wills: Ideal for Abu Dhabi residents, offering flexibility for non-Muslims.
2. Gather Asset and Beneficiary Information
Compile a detailed list of assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal items. Identify beneficiaries (e.g., spouse, children, charities) with full names and passport numbers. Appoint an executor—someone over 21, not necessarily a beneficiary to manage your estate. For minor children, designate guardians and interim guardians (Dubai residents with Emirates IDs) to ensure their care.
3. Draft Your Will in Dubai
Write your DIY Will in Dubai in clear, unambiguous language. UAE law recognizes notarial (formal) and holographic (handwritten) Wills, but notarial Wills are preferred for clarity. Include:
- Your full name, passport details, and proof of address.
- A comprehensive list of assets with identifiable details (e.g., property titles, bank account numbers).
- Beneficiaries and their asset shares.
- Executor and guardian appointments.
- Specific instructions for asset distribution or conditions (e.g., trusts for minors). Use templates from the DIFC Wills Service Centre or Dubai Courts websites to ensure compliance with UAE Will laws. Avoid vague terms to prevent disputes, as an unclear Will may be deemed invalid.
4. Sign and Witness the Will
Your legal Will in the UAE must be signed in the presence of two adult witnesses of sound mind, who are not beneficiaries or their spouses. One witness can be a DIFC registration officer if registering there. Witnesses must verify your signature with their own, providing passport details. This step is critical for the validity of your Will.
5. Register the Will in UAE
Registration ensures your Will is enforceable. Options include:
- DIFC Wills Service Centre: Submit online via their portal, uploading your passport, Emirates ID (if applicable), and witness details.
- Dubai Courts: Requires Arabic translation by a certified translator, submitted through the Notary Public.
- ADJD: Offers online registration with video notarization for ADJD Wills. Follow the chosen authority’s guidelines to ensure your DIY Will in Dubai is accepted.
6. Review and Update Regularly
Life events like marriage, divorce, or acquiring new assets necessitate updates to your Will. Revisit your Will every few years or after significant changes to keep it aligned with your wishes. Amendments can be re-registered with the same authority.
Key Considerations for DIY Wills in Dubai
- Accuracy: Ensure precise details (names, asset descriptions) to avoid disputes.
- Language: DIFC Wills can be in English, but Dubai Courts Wills require Arabic or bilingual versions.
- Guardianship: Clearly outline guardians for minors to prevent court intervention.
- Global Assets: DIFC Wills and ADJD Wills can cover worldwide assets, but verify compatibility with your home country’s laws.
- Public Order: Ensure your Will complies with UAE public order to avoid invalidation.
Risks and Mitigation for Wills in Dubai
Drafting a DIY Will in Dubai without a lawyer risks errors in wording or non-compliance with UAE laws, potentially invalidating the Will. To mitigate:
- Use official templates from DIFC Wills Service Centre or Dubai Courts.
- Verify requirements on official websites (e.g., difccourts.ae, dubai.ae).
- Consider a legal review by a DIFC Wills Draftsman for complex estates, even if drafting independently.
Conclusion
While it is possible to draft a DIY Will in Dubai by following the UAE’s Will laws and registering it with the relevant authority such as DIFC Wills Service Centre, Dubai Courts, or ADJD, even a small mistake can affect its validity or worse get cancelled. That’s why seeking professional assistance is highly recommended, to ensure your Will is error-free, legally sound, and provides complete protection for your assets and loved ones.