The United Arab Emirates has established a comprehensive legal framework enabling non-Muslim expatriates to formally register wills through multiple jurisdictional pathways. This system provides crucial estate planning security for the country’s substantial foreign resident population.
Under Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status Law, non-Muslim foreigners residing in the UAE may choose to apply their home country’s legal provisions regarding inheritance and wills, provided they do not conflict with specific articles of existing UAE legislation. This foundational principle grants expatriates significant autonomy in determining how their estates will be managed.
For residents of Dubai, Law No. 15 of 2017 Concerning the Administration of Estates and Implementation of Wills of Non-Muslims establishes specialized registries at both Dubai Courts and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts. These registries accept wills that encompass a testator’s global assets, including real estate holdings, financial accounts, business shares, intellectual property, and digital assets such as social media accounts.
The DIFC Wills Service Centre maintains specific requirements for document validation, mandating that wills be presented in English, witnessed by at least two competent adults, and physically signed by the testator in the presence of authorized officials. Similar services are available through the Abu Dhabi Global Markets Courts, providing additional options for residents of the capital emirate.
Alternatively, expatriates may opt to register wills through their home country’s diplomatic missions, provided such consular services are available. This multi-option system reflects the UAE’s recognition of its diverse international community and the importance of providing clear, accessible estate planning mechanisms for all residents.
Legal experts emphasize that proper will registration ensures that an individual’s assets are distributed according to their wishes rather than default inheritance laws, which is particularly important for expatriates with complex international holdings and family circumstances.