Can Foreigners Make a Will in Dubai?

Non-Muslim foreigners living in the UAE can make a registered will that controls how their UAE assets are distributed. Without one, default inheritance rules may apply and can produce outcomes very different from what the person intended. This is one of the most overlooked, and most consequential, gaps in expat legal planning in the UAE.

Operated jointly by the DIFC Courts and the Government of Dubai. Designed specifically for non-Muslims. Applies to assets located anywhere in the UAE and Ras Al Khaimah. Common law principles of testamentary freedom apply, giving the testator full control over distribution.

Registers non-Muslim wills under the Abu Dhabi civil personal status framework. Works for residents of Abu Dhabi and for assets located in the emirate.

Dubai Courts also maintains a register for non-Muslim wills, providing an additional route for residents of Dubai.

• Full will: covering all UAE assets
• Property will: real estate only
• Financial assets will: bank accounts and investments
• Business will: UAE company shareholdings
• Guardianship will: appointment of guardians for minor children
• Mirror wills: matching wills for spouses

Without a registered non-Muslim will, default UAE inheritance rules may apply to assets located in the UAE. This can produce outcomes including: surviving spouse receiving a smaller share than expected, daughters receiving less than sons under default principles, and complex disputes among extended family members. A properly drafted will eliminates all of this.

Foreigners with assets in multiple countries typically need a separate will for each jurisdiction, drafted to cover only the assets in that country without revoking each other. Lexorium coordinates this with foreign counsel where needed.

Drafting typically takes one to two weeks. Registration at the DIFC Wills Service Centre, ADJD, or Dubai Courts can be completed in a single appointment in most cases.