Dubai: Can an expat register his will in his home country for UAE assets?

As a Dubai resident with investments and properties, understanding the legalities of will registration is crucial for safeguarding your assets. The UAE’s Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status, along with Law No. 15 of 2017, provides a framework for non-Muslim expatriates to register their wills, ensuring their estate is managed according to their wishes.

Non-Muslim residents have the flexibility to register a will either in the UAE or their home country. According to the UAE Personal Status Law for Non-Muslims, you have the liberty to bequeath all your UAE-based assets to beneficiaries of your choice, adhering to specific regulatory guidelines.

If you opt to include your UAE assets in a will registered in your home country, ensure it undergoes notarization and legalization from the corresponding local and UAE diplomatic authorities. Following this, the will must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and the UAE Ministry of Justice, inclusive of a legal translation.

The execution process involves opening an inheritance case in the UAE Personal Status Court, which, upon adherence to the contents of the will, distributes the UAE-based estate among the named beneficiaries. This traditional approach guarantees that your investments and properties are allocated as intended.

Alternatively, registering a separate will in Dubai specifically for your UAE assets is a viable option. The Dubai Courts and the DIFC Courts offer non-Muslims the facility to record their wills, providing a clear legal route to estate planning within the region. Registering a will in Dubai, through the Notary Public or DIFC Wills Service Centre, offers a streamlined process tailored to the unique needs of non-Muslim expatriates living in the UAE.

Choosing between registering a will in your home country or exclusively within Dubai majorly depends on your personal circumstances and estate planning objectives. Detailed consideration and potential consultation with legal experts specializing in UAE law can guide you to the most effective strategy for protecting your investments and ensuring your legacy in Dubai.