Planning ahead matters. Navigating wills in Dubai requires clarity, precision, and legal expertise. As experienced will lawyers in Dubai, we guide you through the complex interplay between Sharia and civil law. Whether it’s will writing in UAE you need or ensuring your will aligns with both local rules and personal wishes, our insight ensures your legacy remains intact—today and tomorrow.
Secure your future with a legally valid will. Click on the WhatsApp icon below to contact our legal team.
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Dubai’s Unique Legal Landscape: Sharia vs. Civil Law
To understand wills in Dubai, it’s crucial to grasp how Sharia and civil law interact. The table below outlines the key differences:
| Aspect | Sharia Law | Civil Law (Opt-in for Non-Muslims) |
|---|---|---|
| Inheritance Distribution | Fixed shares to heirs (sons, daughters, spouse, parents) | Freedom to distribute assets as desired |
| Applicability | Default for Muslims (citizens and residents) | Available to non-Muslims and expatriates through registered will |
| Law Source | Islamic jurisprudence | Testator’s home country law or UAE Civil Code |
| Guardianship | Determined by courts under Sharia | Can be appointed through will |
| Court Jurisdiction | Sharia Courts | DIFC Wills Service Centre or ADJD Civil Wills Section |
This duality makes professional advice essential. Without a registered will, even non-Muslims may face Sharia-based distribution, especially if heirs contest the process. Our lawyers help you choose the right legal structure for your needs.
Types of Wills in Dubai: Which One Do You Need?
Choosing the correct will type ensures clarity, enforceability, and family protection. Dubai offers several options:
- Full Will: Covers assets, guardianship, and executors
- Property Will: Focuses solely on real estate
- Guardianship Will: Appoints guardians for minors
- Financial Will: Covers bank accounts, investments
- Business Will: Disposes of shares or business assets
Each will type can be registered under DIFC, ADJD, or Dubai Courts depending on your circumstances. Our experts assess your profile—nationality, asset location, family composition—to recommend the best fit.
Step-by-Step: Drafting a Valid Will in Dubai
Creating a legally enforceable wills in Dubai involves several steps. Below is the process we follow with clients:
- Initial Consultation: Assess goals, jurisdiction, religious status
- Document Compilation: Collect proof of identity, asset lists, liabilities
- Drafting: Prepare the will with clarity, legal accuracy, and alignment with UAE law
- Review and Amendments: Make changes based on your feedback
- Registration: Finalize at DIFC, ADJD, or Dubai Notary Public as needed
- Executor & Guardian Briefing: We guide your appointed persons on their duties
Avoid DIY drafting. Errors in wording, signatures, or witness roles can invalidate your will.
Critical Mistakes That Invalidate Dubai Wills
Even well-intentioned wills can be rendered void due to common errors:
- Improper Witnesses: Witnesses must not be beneficiaries or their spouses
- Oral or Digital Wills: Not legally recognized under UAE law
- Ambiguity: Unclear beneficiary names or asset details cause legal disputes
- Unregistered Amendments: Any change must be notarized and re-registered
- Failure to Opt-out of Sharia: For non-Muslims, this is crucial to apply home country law
Our lawyer in UAE ensures your will is bulletproof—legally binding, clear, and registered correctly.
Dubai Will Costs & Probate Fees
Below is a comparison of will registration and probate costs across key jurisdictions:
| Jurisdiction | Drafting Cost (Approx.) | Registration Fee | Probate Fee | Amendment Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIFC | AED 2,999 | AED 10,000 | AED 5,000–10,000 | AED 550 |
| ADJD | AED 2,799 | AED 950 | AED 950–2,000 | AED 950 |
| Dubai Courts | AED 2,000–4,000 | AED 750–950 | AED 950–2,500 | Varies |
Our firm offers competitive packages for drafting, registration, and ongoing support.
Why Choose Our Law Firm for Your Dubai Will?
Choosing the right legal partner can make or break your estate plan. Here’s why clients trust us:
- Specialist Knowledge: Sharia vs. Civil systems, DIFC, ADJD, Dubai Court
- Multilingual Drafting: English, Arabic, or bilingual options available
- Speed & Accuracy: Fast turnaround with thorough legal checks
- Aftercare: Free updates for 12 months, executor support, and legacy services
FAQ
When it comes to wills in Dubai, professional support ensures your final wishes are respected—whether you’re arranging will writing in UAE or seeking clarity on which jurisdiction best serves your legacy. As seasoned will lawyers in Dubai, we deliver precision, protection, and peace of mind.
Ready to secure your family’s future? Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step toward a legally sound will in UAE.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized assistance, consult a licensed lawyer in the UAE.
Legal Services:
- Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status for Non-Muslims
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