Securing Your Family’s Future in the Emirates

For expatriates and multinational families residing in the United Arab Emirates, proactive planning is a fundamental aspect of responsible living. The nation’s legal system, while robust, operates under distinct personal status laws that may not automatically align with the inheritance laws of your home country.

Without clear instructions, the distribution of your assets can become a protracted and stressful process for your loved ones. This makes the establishment of a valid UAE Will a critical step for anyone with family or assets in the country.

Clarity and Control Over Asset Distribution:

A primary advantage of a UAE Will is the direct authority it provides. You explicitly state who inherits your possessions, from bank accounts and investments to personal property and vehicles. This prevents the application of default local laws, which might distribute assets in a way that does not reflect your personal wishes. You can appoint guardians for minor children and specify proportions for each beneficiary, ensuring your intentions are clear and legally enforceable.

Avoiding Lengthy Legal Complications:

Intestacy the state of dying without a Will often triggers a complex and time-consuming judicial process. The courts must appoint an administrator and determine heirs according to fixed rules. This procedure can freeze assets for months or even years, leaving your family without access to crucial funds during a difficult period. A properly registered Will streamlines administration, allowing your executors to act swiftly and reduce the burden on your family.

Protection for Unique Family Structures:

Modern families come in diverse forms, including blended families or those with dependents who are not legally recognized as heirs under certain jurisdictions. A UAE Will allows you to include all individuals you wish to provide for, regardless of their relation under specific inheritance codes. It serves as a vital tool to ensure that partners, step-children, or other loved ones receive the support you intend for them, offering peace of mind that your family structure is respected.

A Straightforward Process for Peace of Mind:

The UAE has established accessible frameworks for non-Muslims, such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Wills and Probate Registry and the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s system, which simplify registration. The process involves drafting your directives, having them witnessed, and submitting them to the relevant authority. This investment of time brings immeasurable security, knowing your affairs are in order.