Planning for the future isn’t just about savings accounts and investments. It’s also about ensuring that, if something happens to you, your loved ones aren’t left tangled in legal red tape or emotional stress. In the UAE, will registration is more than a good idea, it’s often your only line of defense against unintended legal outcomes, especially if you’re an expat.
If you have dependents, property, or assets in the UAE, registering a will is not optional, it’s protection. It prevents a legal mess, court delays, and emotional turmoil for your loved ones. For expats, it’s your only real shield against unintended consequences of Sharia-based inheritance. Without it, even your most basic wishes can get lost in a maze of default laws.
Will Registration in the UAE: What It Protects You From—and Why It Matters
A registered will in the UAE isn’t just about asset distribution—it’s about protecting your family from chaos, conflict, and court delays. Without one, your estate is vulnerable to legal processes that might not reflect your wishes, especially if you’re a non-Muslim expat.
Here’s what a registered will protects you from:
Quick Recap: What You Gain by Registering Your Will Under UAE Legal Framework (DIFC, Dubai Courts, or ADJD)
Registering your will in the UAE ensures your assets are protected and distributed as per your wishes. Whether you choose DIFC, Dubai Courts, or ADJD, each legal framework offers unique benefits to safeguard your legacy and provide peace of mind for your loved ones.
- Certainty over who inherits what — no surprises, no disputes.
- Legal control over guardianship for your children.
- Faster probate and access to assets for your loved ones.
- Protection from unwanted legal complications or default rulings.
- Peace of mind knowing your wishes are respected—even when you’re not around to defend them.
If you live in the UAE, or even if you’re a non-resident who owns property or bank accounts here, you should consider setting up a UAE-specific will. There are three legal channels available, and each comes with distinct implications for cost, enforceability, and scope:
1. DIFC Wills (Dubai International Financial Centre)
Tailored for non-Muslim expats, DIFC wills follow English common law principles, allowing you to draft your will in English and bypass Sharia law entirely. They only cover UAE-based assets and offer a high degree of legal clarity.
- Designed for those seeking an internationally aligned legal process.
- Covers Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.
- Streamlined probate process via DIFC courts.
- Higher cost, but higher enforceability.
2. Dubai Courts Will
A more traditional route where wills are registered via Dubai Notary Public and processed under civil law. The will is typically in Arabic, and although it can reflect your wishes, it may still require more legal interpretation by courts.
- More affordable than DIFC.
- Common for residents comfortable with local court systems.
- Less popular among foreigners due to language barriers and enforceability concerns.
- Costs around AED 2,200–4,000 depending on complexity and drafting method.
3. ADJD Wills (Abu Dhabi Judicial Department)
An increasingly popular and cost-effective alternative to both DIFC and Dubai Courts. ADJD wills allow English documents (with certified Arabic translations when needed), and registration fees are significantly lower.
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- Valid across Abu Dhabi and other Emirates.
- Suitable for expats wanting a simpler process at a lower price.
- Strong recognition in the judicial system, though more local in framework.
How to Register a Will in the UAE (Step-by-Step Guide)
Option 1: DIFC Wills Service Centre (Dubai & Ras Al Khaimah)
- Consult a DIFC-registered lawyer to draft your will.
- Choose the right will type: Full, Property, Guardianship, Financial Assets, or Mirror.
- Prepare documents: Passport, Emirates ID, asset details, beneficiary info.
- Book your appointment through the DIFC Wills Portal.
- Attend registration session (in-person or virtual).
- Pay fees (AED 2,500–5,000+ depending on will type).
- Will is securely stored and becomes legally binding under DIFC law.
Option 2: ADJD Wills (Abu Dhabi Judicial Department)
- Draft your will (English accepted, but Arabic translation often needed).
- Prepare documents (Passport, Emirates ID, asset details, guardian names).
- Submit via the TAMM portal or visit the Notary Public.
- The will is notarized after verification.
- Pay registration fees (typically AED 950–1,500).
- The will becomes legally binding and is recognized across Emirates.
Option 3: Dubai Courts Will
- Draft will in Arabic, or provide a certified translation of an English version.
- Visit Dubai Notary Public and submit all documents.
- Pay fees (AED 2,200–4,000 depending on complexity and translations).
- Notary verifies identity and witnesses the will signing.
- The will is then stamped and recorded in the Dubai legal system.
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Types of Wills You Can Register in the UAE
Depending on your assets and personal situation, you can choose the format that fits you best. Here’s a detailed look at available types
Final Note on Value vs Cost
While DIFC Wills come with the highest price tag, they offer unmatched legal clarity, probate efficiency, and peace of mind—especially for expats with complex asset portfolios. ADJD Wills are best for cost-conscious individuals seeking solid legal protection without the premium. Dubai Courts Wills may suit residents more familiar with the local legal system but involve extra translation and court interpretation layers.
In the end, you’re not just paying for paperwork, you’re paying for certainty, control, and protection for your family when they’ll need it most.
What About International Assets?
Keep in mind: UAE wills only protect your UAE-based assets. If you have assets in other countries, you’ll likely need separate wills or coordinated estate planning in those jurisdictions to avoid legal complications, double taxation, or disputes.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Most people delay creating a will until they absolutely need it, and by then, it’s too late. In the UAE, will registration is one of the smartest and most protective steps you can take. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a non-resident investor, a registered will is your legal voice when you’re not around to speak for yourself.
It’s not just paperwork, it’s peace of mind for your life.
Cost Breakdown: What to Expect
Registering a will in the UAE involves several cost layers, registration fees, legal drafting, translation (if required), and advisory services. Below is what you need to know before budgeting:
| Will Type / Service | DIFC Wills | ADJD Wills | Dubai Courts Will |
|---|---|---|---|
| Will Registration Fee | Full Will: AED 5,000Mirror Will: AED 7,500Property/Financial Will: AED 2,500Guardianship Will: AED 2,000 | AED 950 – AED 1,500 | AED 2,200 – AED 4,000 |
| Legal Drafting Fee (Optional) | AED 2,000 – AED 4,000 | AED 1,500 – AED 3,000 | AED 2,000 – AED 3,500 |
| Translation Costs (if required) | N/A | AED 300 – AED 800 | AED 500 – AED 1,000 |
| Amendment Fee | AED 550 per revision | Varies | Varies |
| Appointment Reschedule/Cancellation | AED 525 (within 48 hours) | N/A | N/A |
| Notary/Attestation Charges | Included in fee | AED 500 – AED 700 (sometimes included) | Included in fee |
| Recognition Scope | Dubai Only | Emirates-wide | Dubai Only |
| Popularity Among Expats | High (expat-friendly) | Growing due to cost-efficiency | Moderate (less expat-friendly) |
| Additional/Hidden Costs (All Types) |
|---|
| Lawyer Consultation Fee: AED 500 – 1,000 |
| Courier/Admin Fees (outside cities): Varies |
| Digital Storage (Optional): AED 200 – 500/year |
Summary: Cost Comparison Table
| Will Type | Registration Fee | Drafting Cost (Approx.) | Translation (If Needed) | Total Estimated Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIFC Full Will (Single) | AED 5,000 | AED 2,000–4,000 | Not required | AED 7,000–9,000+ |
| DIFC Mirror Will (Couple) | AED 7,500 | AED 3,000–5,000 | Not required | AED 10,500–12,500+ |
| ADJD Will | AED 950–1,500 | AED 1,500–3,000 | AED 300–800 | AED 2,750–5,300 |
| Dubai Courts Will | AED 2,200–4,000 | AED 2,000–3,500 | AED 500–1,000 | AED 4,700–8,500 |
FAQS (Frequently Asked Questions)
How much does it cost to make a will in UAE?
Costs range from AED 2,000 to AED 15,000 depending on type (single/mirror) and whether it’s through DIFC or ADJD.
What is will attestation in UAE?
A will must be notarized or registered with an official authority like DIFC Wills Centre or ADJD to be legally recognized.
What is the new inheritance law in UAE?
The new law allows non-Muslim expats to apply their home country laws to inheritance and wills, rather than Sharia law by default.
Is will without registration valid?
Unregistered wills may not be enforceable or easily accepted in UAE courts; formal registration ensures legal validity and clarity.
What is will cost in UAE?
Costs vary by type and authority; a single DIFC Will starts at AED 5,000, while ADJD options may be more affordable.
Are DIFC Wills Worth The Extra Cost?
Yes, for non-Muslim expats with assets in Dubai, DIFC Wills offer legal clarity, inheritance control, and fast probate process.
Is there a form for a will?
Yes, DIFC and ADJD offer will templates and guidelines, though legal assistance is often recommended for proper drafting.
What are the procedures for executing the will?
The executor must apply for probate through the relevant authority (DIFC or ADJD) and distribute assets as per the will.
Why Are DIFC Wills So Costly?
DIFC Wills cost more due to specialized legal infrastructure, faster probate, and international enforceability for non-Muslim expats.
