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Why Every Expat Family in UAE Should Have a Will

Published: 2026-06-06 | Last updated: 2026-06-06 | 7 min read | Written by Mohamed AlGizawy, Founder & Managing Director | Former Judge & Public Prosecutor

As a former judge who has seen the consequences of intestate succession in UAE courts, I can state without exaggeration: a UAE-compliant will is not a luxury for the wealthy. It is a necessity for every expat family with assets or dependents in the UAE.

1. The Default: What Happens Without a Will

When a non-Muslim expat dies in the UAE without a registered will, UAE assets may be distributed according to Sharia-based succession rules — regardless of nationality, religion, or wishes.

What This Means in Practice

• Surviving spouse receives a fractional share (typically 1/4 for husband, 1/8 for wife if there are children)
• Children receive the remainder, with sons receiving approximately double the share of daughters
• Parents, siblings may also be entitled to shares

The Practical Consequences

• Asset freeze — Bank accounts, property, shares frozen for months or years
• Guardianship uncertainty — Court decides guardianship for minor children, not the parents
• Business disruption — Shares frozen, management authority unclear
• Cross-border complexity — Conflicting obligations between UAE and other jurisdictions

2. The Solution: A UAE-Compliant Will

Option 1: DIFC Wills (Dubai)

• Testamentary freedom — You decide how assets are distributed
• English language — Drafted and registered in English
• Quick registration — Typically 1–2 weeks
• Types: Property Will, Financial Assets Will, Guardianship Will, Full Will, Business Owners Will

Option 2: ADGM Wills (Abu Dhabi)

Common law principles, English language, digital registration, coverage of Abu Dhabi real estate and UAE financial assets.

Option 3: Notarized Will (Dubai Courts)

For non-Muslims, a will notarized at the Dubai Notary Public can be recognized. However, probate is typically more complex and time-consuming than DIFC/ADGM.

Learn more about family law and inheritance services →

3. What Every Expat Will Should Address

1. Asset distribution — List all UAE assets with specifics (title deed numbers, account numbers). Specify beneficiaries. Include contingent beneficiaries.
2. Guardianship — Nominate guardian and alternate for minor children. Include a letter of wishes.
3. Executor appointment — Choose someone likely to be available and capable. Include provisions for replacement.
4. Business succession — Specify what happens to your shares. Include management continuity provisions.
5. Cross-border coordination — Ensure UAE will doesn't conflict with wills in other jurisdictions.

4. Common Mistakes Expat Families Make

• Relying on a home country will — May not be recognized or may require lengthy probate
• Not updating after life changes — Marriage, divorce, births, property acquisitions should trigger review
• Not telling anyone — A will nobody knows about cannot be probated
• Ignoring digital assets — Crypto, online accounts, digital business assets
• Assuming joint ownership solves it — It doesn't automatically transfer in the UAE

5. Cost of Inaction vs. Cost of Action

Key Takeaways

• Without a UAE-compliant will, default rules apply — and the process can take years
• Every expat family with UAE assets or dependents needs a will
• DIFC and ADGM wills provide the most efficient framework
• Your home country will may not cover UAE assets
• Guardianship is as important as asset distribution

6. Frequently Asked Questions