Will Writing Services
Will Drafting Services in Dubai, UAE for Muslims and Non-Muslims
At HHS Lawyers, we understand that preparing for the future is one of the most responsible decisions you can make. We provide customized will-writing services in Dubai for Muslim and non-Muslim clients who want Sharia-compliant wills or personal asset distribution arrangements.
Our wills and probate lawyers create wills that adhere to UAE laws, particularly Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 (Personal Status Law) and Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 (Civil inheritance rules), while protecting your assets and loved ones.
Why Write a Will in Dubai?
A registered and properly drafted will serve as an essential tool for estate planning since the UAE operates within a multicultural legal framework.
If a Muslim died without a will, his/her estate would be distributed under Federal Decree Law No. 41/2024 according to Sharia principles. Non-Muslim estates would be governed by the civil inheritance rules of Federal Decree Law No. 41/2022– which distribute 50% to the spouse and the remaining portion to children or parents or siblings unless the deceased selected their home-country laws.
Benefits of Writing a Will:
- Clear Asset Distribution: Through proper asset distribution in a will, you can avoid beneficiary disputes by determining exactly how your assets should be distributed.
- Family Protection: A properly drafted will protects your dependents by enabling you to select guardians for your children and arrange their care.
- Legal Compliance: Our wills maintain compliance with UAE regulations through Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2024 and Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022, which ensures legal validity.
- Efficient Estate Settlement: A well-written will helps settle estates efficiently by creating a streamlined process, which leads to faster and smoother asset transfer.
- Customized for Your Needs: Our will-writing services create customized will that fulfill both Muslim and non-Muslim legal requirements.
- Peace of Mind: Through this process you will achieve peace of mind because your estate will be secure and your loved ones protected.
UAE Legal Framework for Wills
Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 (Non-Muslim Personal Status Law)
The law permits non-Muslims to determine every aspect of their property distribution. It clearly states:
“The testator shall have the right to leave a will with the entire property he owns in the state in favor of anybody he wants, in accordance with the controls specified by the executive regulations of this decree-law.”
This gives non-Muslims:
- Absolute authority to determine the distribution of their entire UAE properties.
- The option to choose or exclude Sharia law from inheritance decisions.
- The right to apply inheritance laws from their home country according to their wishes.
Personal Status Law No. 41 of 2024
The law provided additional clarification on inheritance matters and guardianship with respect to both Muslims and non-Muslims.
The law expressly emphasized on:
- Recognition of registered Wills.
- How Guardianship appointments will be governed under wills.
- All inheritance matters must follow the rules stated in registered wills or applicable law (for ex. Sharia law for Muslims, unless otherwise permitted).
Our legal professionals are well updated with laws and help with creating a will that remain valid and enforceable.
Types of Wills We Help You Draft
The legal team at HHS Lawyers provides Dubai clients with assistance for creating all types of wills.
Dubai Courts Will
This Will option serves non-Muslims who need to register their will in Arabic at the Dubai Notary Public. It applies UAE civil law and can be used to distribute UAE-based assets.
DIFC Wills
Non-Muslims who use the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry can create English-based common-law wills. People who own real estate or major assets in Dubai and other emirates should choose this option.
Types include:
- The Full Will provides coverage for all assets located worldwide.
- The Property Will focuses on UAE real estate distribution.
- The Financial Assets Will is intended for managing bank accounts along with other financial property.
- Guardianship Will enable users to choose legal guardians for their children.
Sharia-Compliant Wills for Muslims
Under the Sharia framework, Muslims maintain their right to create wills. The Sharia permits Muslims to give no more than one-third of their inheritance to non-heirs and specified individuals. The remaining inheritance follows Islamic inheritance rules unless the law permits alternative distribution methods.
Where Can Muslims Register Their Wills in Dubai?
Residents of Dubai who are Muslims can register their wills through Dubai Courts under Shariah Law. The court verifies the will against Islamic inheritance principles and the UAE’s Personal Status Law.
Here’s how it works:
- The Shariah Law requires that wills conform to Islamic inheritance principles, which permit a maximum of one-third of the estate to be distributed among non-heirs or charitable organizations.
- The will must be registered at the Dubai Courts Notary Public after Arabic translation (if the will is in a language other than Arabic) and proper verification.
- The same process is available for Muslim residents of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah who want to register their wills at their Sharia Courts.
Our Will Writing Process
HHS Lawyers work on a very simple, transparent approach, made very clear to suit the case:
- Initial consultation : We start with a consultation about the assets, family structure, and goals.
- Drafting your Will :Then we draft your Will after completing a short questionnaire that provides:
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- Instructions on asset distribution
- Appointing guardians
- Executor and witness details .
- Legal Review :We ensure that Will must comply with UAE Laws, and where relevant, your home country inheritance laws.
- Finalization :You will review and approve the draft. We incorporate revisions as necessary to make sure that the Will accurately reflects your desires.
- Execution and Registration :Our team will facilitate the notarization and registration of the Will, making sure your document is lawfully applicable in UAE.
Why Choose HHS Dubai will Drafting Lawyers?
- Knowledge: Our legal team has in-depth knowledge of the legal system in UAE to create accurate and effective wills for clients.
- Personalized Services: We tailor our services, whether for Muslims or non-Muslims, to meet individual personal requirements.
- Peace of Mind: Our Lawyers will provide you with complete support with respect to both protection of property and wellbeing of family.
- Transparent Process: We assist you through all steps while making everything as easy as possible to understand.
Our wills and probate lawyers help to create and register you will through our Sharia-compliant services and civil will services.
Secure Your Legacy Today
Your estate should not be determined by chance. Planning your will as a UAE resident or expatriate guarantees both peace of mind and legal clarity for your future. Contact HHS Lawyers today for an initial consultation with our will-drafting team. Let us assist you in securing your legacy and protecting your family’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it mandatory to have a will in Dubai?
No, but in the absence of a registered will, your estate will be distributed according to UAE laws, which may not accurately reflect your personal wishes.
Can a non-Muslim leave 100% of assets to their spouse?
Yes. The non-Muslim has complete discretion in the distribution of his or her estate as per Federal Law No. 41 of 2022.
Do Muslims have full freedom in wills?
No. Under Shariah law, Muslims are restricted from giving away more than one-third of their estate to non-heirs or charities unless remaining heirs agree to it.
Can I register my will in English?
Yes. DIFC wills are registered in English and are best suited for non-Muslims.
What happens if I die without a will?
In the absence of a will the courts would apply Sharia law (for Muslims) or Civil Personal Status rules of inheritance (for non-Muslims). Without a registered will, the process may take time and may not fulfill the wishes of the deceased.
Can I include international assets in my UAE will?
Yes, in particular, the DIFC Wills enable the inclusion of international assets.
Can I update my will?
Yes. Changes to a will may be made at any time with the proper documentation and upon re-registration.
