Why do I need a Will in the UAE?

The UAE courts would adhere to Sharia law in respect of the distribution of assets of a non-Muslim UAE expat where he or she dies without a Will in place (which is known as dying “intestate”).

As a way out:

(1) Article 17(1) of the UAE Civil Code states that the inheritance shall be governed by the law of the deceased at the time of his death. The law allows a non-Muslim foreigner to choose the laws of his or her home country to apply to his or her inheritance. This can be done through a clearly drafted Will.

(2) DIFC Wills & Probate Registry Rules (DIFC WPR Rules) have created a legal regime for non-Muslims with assets in the United Arab Emirates to allow the creation of Wills under the common law principles. This means that if a non-Muslim registers his/her Will with the DIFC Courts Wills Service, their assets in the United Arab Emirates will be distributed according to their own wishes.

Depending upon your personal situation, you can either have a will written under the UAE Civil Code or the DIFC WPR Rules. Find out details on Two (2) types of UAE Wills.