Why is a Will in Dubai Important?

Testament in Dubai Sharia Wet

Dubai is an international city where people from all over the world live and invest, but not everyone immediately thinks about making a will or testament in Dubai. Many residents and investors—regardless of nationality, religion, or family situation—don't consider what happens to their assets or possessions when they die.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has different inheritance rules than many Western countries. Anyone who dies without a valid will in Dubai will be subject to local laws. These are based on the Sharia. This can have a major impact on how assets are divided.

That is why it is wise and in many cases necessary to put your wishes on paper in an official and recognised will.

Testament in Dubai Sharia Wet

What is Sharia law?

Sharia is the Islamic law used in family matters, such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance. In the UAE, this law is applied to the settlement of estates in the absence of a will.

Key features of Sharia inheritance law:

  • Heirs are appointed according to fixed proportions.

  • Spouses, parents, children and other family members may all be entitled to a share of the estate.

  • Male and female heirs receive different shares.

  • Assets, such as bank accounts and properties, can be temporarily frozen until the distribution has been arranged through the court.

These rules are suitable and desirable for many people, but not everyone has the same wishes or family structure. That's why it's good that alternatives exist.

Testament in Dubai Sharia Wet

What are the alternatives? Will in Dubai

The UAE offers residents of all nationalities and religions the opportunity to make a will that deviates from the Sharia system. Some call this an Expat Will. This is possible as long as it is legally correct and registered. There are several ways to do this:

  1. DIFC Courts Wills Service

    • Targeted at non-Muslims

    • English will in Dubai

    • Applies to assets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

    • Professional, international standard

  2. Dubai Notary Public

    • Accessible to everyone, including Muslims

    • Arabic or bilingual will in Dubai

    • Can be arranged through a local lawyer

    • Costs often lower than DIFC

The right route depends on your personal situation, background, preferences, and goals. For real estate investments, Dubai Notary Public often suffices.

Who is a Will in Dubai relevant for?

A will in Dubai is recommended for anyone who:

  • Property or real estate ownership in the UAE
  • Savings or investments in local banks
  • Married or having children (in the UAE or abroad)
  • Wants to decide for themselves who their heirs are
  • Wants to provide certainty to the family in unexpected situations

Whether you are Muslim or non-Muslim, European, Arab, Asian or otherwise, making a will is a way to arrange your legacy consciously and in line with your own values.

Testament in Dubai Sharia Wet

Conclusion

Making a will in Dubai isn't a matter of wealth or age. It's a matter of taking responsibility. Whether you're an expat with a home in Dubai, a Muslim with a large family, or an international investor, it's important to consider what happens after your death.

By recording your wishes, you prevent uncertainty, legal complications, and conflicts between surviving relatives. And above all, you give yourself and your loved ones peace of mind and clarity.

So contact us for more information about a will in Dubai, its costs or other real estate related questions.

Article references: India Express | Telegraph | Gulf | Al Jazeera | Economist | BBC |

Post a reaction

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with *

en_USEnglish