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.
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.
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:
The law provided additional clarification on inheritance matters and guardianship with respect to both Muslims and non-Muslims.
The law expressly emphasized on:
Our legal professionals are well updated with laws and help with creating a will that remain valid and enforceable.
The legal team at HHS Lawyers provides Dubai clients with assistance for creating all types of wills.
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.
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:
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.
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:
HHS Lawyers work on a very simple, transparent approach, made very clear to suit the case:
Our wills and probate lawyers help to create and register you will through our Sharia-compliant services and civil will services.
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.
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.
Yes. The non-Muslim has complete discretion in the distribution of his or her estate as per Federal Law No. 41 of 2022.
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.
Yes. DIFC wills are registered in English and are best suited for non-Muslims.
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.
Yes, in particular, the DIFC Wills enable the inclusion of international assets.
Yes. Changes to a will may be made at any time with the proper documentation and upon re-registration.