Register Your Will in the UAE with PROBIZ

If you own property, run a business, or hold savings in the UAE and have not registered a will, your estate could be distributed according to default succession rules not necessarily the way you would choose.

This applies to both Muslim and non-Muslim residents, and it is one of the most overlooked steps for anyone who has set up a company, bought property, or opened bank accounts in the UAE. PROBIZ helps you register a legally valid will, so your family is not left navigating court processes during an already difficult time.

Why You Need a Registered Will in the UAE

• Without a registered will, your assets, including business shares, property and bank accounts, may be distributed under default succession law.
• With a registered will, you can control who inherits what and appoint a guardian for minor children.
• A will can help your family avoid a lengthy and stressful probate process.
• It is important for entrepreneurs, property owners and anyone aged 21+ with assets in the UAE.

How Inheritance Law Works in the UAE

For Muslims: Sharia-Based Succession

For Muslims, inheritance is governed by Sharia law regardless of nationality. Mandatory heirs such as spouse, children and parents receive pre-determined shares. A will can only redirect up to one-third of the estate, while the remaining share follows fixed Sharia rules.

For Non-Muslims: Civil Law Options

Non-Muslim residents have more flexibility in estate planning. They may choose to apply their home country succession law to UAE-based assets if this is clearly stated in a registered will, or they may use UAE civil inheritance rules.

Without a registered will, a non-Muslim estate may be handled under UAE civil personal status law by default.

DIFC Wills vs Dubai Courts Wills Which Do You Need?

Choosing between DIFC Wills and Dubai Courts Wills depends on your religion, asset type, family situation, business ownership and where your assets are located.

Point	DIFC Wills	Dubai Courts Wills
Who it is for	Usually non-Muslims with assets in Dubai or the UAE	Residents who want will registration through Dubai Courts
Governing approach	Common law principles	Dubai Courts registration route
Can cover	Property, business shares, bank accounts and guardianship	Property, assets and family succession matters
Best for	Non-Muslim expats who want clear succession planning	Residents who prefer the Dubai Courts will route

Note: Final costs, registration requirements and processing time should be confirmed before application because authority fees and rules can change.

What a UAE Will Can Cover

• Real estate and property held in the UAE
• Shares in a UAE-registered company
• UAE bank accounts and investments
• Guardianship nominations for minor children
• Movable assets such as vehicles and valuables

Documents Required for Will Registration

• Valid passport copy
• Emirates ID, if you are a UAE resident
• Title deeds for any UAE property
• Business ownership or shareholding documents, if applicable
• Details of beneficiaries
• Details of guardianship nominees, if applicable

How PROBIZ Handles Your Will Registration

Step 1: Free Consultation

We assess your assets, family situation and business ownership structure to recommend whether a DIFC Will, Dubai Courts Will or another succession route fits your situation.

Step 2: Drafting

We help prepare the will in line with your instructions and the applicable legal route.

Step 3: Registration

PROBIZ supports the submission and registration process with the relevant authority.

Step 4: Confirmation

You receive your registered will and guidance on keeping it updated as your assets, family situation or business ownership changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do expats need a will if they already have one in their home country?

A home-country will does not automatically apply to UAE-based assets. Registering a UAE-specific will, or clearly incorporating your home country law into a DIFC Will, can help avoid delays and default succession rules applying to your UAE estate.

Can a will cover my business shares?

Yes. A properly registered will can specify how your shareholding in a UAE company should pass to your chosen heirs.

What happens if I die without a registered will in the UAE?

For Muslims, Sharia succession rules apply automatically. For non-Muslims, the estate may be distributed under UAE civil personal status law by default.

How long does will registration take?

The timeline depends on the will type, documents, drafting requirements, registration authority and appointment availability. PROBIZ can guide you after reviewing your case.

Can I update my will later?

Yes. Wills can be amended or replaced as your assets, family situation or wishes change. It is better to review your will after major life events such as marriage, a new child, business sale or property purchase.