For a lot of people in the UAE, writing a Will is something that sits quietly in their to-do list: important, but easy to postpone. Yet the UAE’s unique legal framework means that having the right type of Will is not just a matter of formality but a decision that can affect how easily your family can get through the future.
The UAE has introduced multiple Will options over the years to cater to its diverse expatriate population. Each serves a specific purpose, and choosing the wrong one can lead to delays, uncertainties or outcomes you never intended. Understanding what the options are is the first step in making the right decision.
Why the Type of Will Matters in the UAE
Unlike many jurisdictions, the UAE blends civil law principles with Sharia-based default rules. While recent changes have added flexibility for non-Muslims, the absence of a valid, registered Will can still trigger court processes that feel unfamiliar to many expatriates.
A well-drafted Will allows you to decide how assets are distributed, who manages them and who will be entrusted with guardianship of your children should something unexpected happen. The key is selecting a structure that matches your assets, your family situation and your place of residence.
DIFC Wills and Why It Is a Popular Choice for Expats
DIFC Wills are among the most widely recognized options for non-Muslims living in the UAE. Registered with the DIFC Wills Service Centre, these Wills operate under common-law principles and are written in English, which many expats find reassuring.
They allow you to cover assets located in the UAE and, if structured correctly, across other emirates as well. A lot of expats choose DIFC Wills because they are easy to understand. Guardianship provisions in particular are a major reason families with young children opt for this route.
That said, DIFC Wills come with formal registration requirements and higher fees compared to some other options. They are best for people who want a flexible, court-tested framework and have assets of sizable value in the UAE.
Abu Dhabi Wills and Why They Are an Emerging Alternative
Wills in Abu Dhabi have been gaining prominence in recent years, especially after the introduction of a non-Muslim Personal Status Court. These Wills are designed specifically for non-Muslim residents and cover assets located in Abu Dhabi and in many cases, across the UAE.
One of the advantages of Wills in Abu Dhabi is their alignment with local judicial processes, which can be easier for people who live in the capital. The registration process is often perceived as more accessible while still providing legal certainty in inheritance and guardianship matters.
For individuals whose primary assets or family life are centred in Abu Dhabi, this option can be both practical and effective.
Dubai Courts Non-Muslim Wills
The Dubai Courts also offer non-Muslim Wills, which operate under local regulations rather than the DIFC framework. These Wills can cover assets within Dubai and are typically more cost-effective than DIFC Wills.
However, they may not offer the same level of flexibility or international familiarity. For some families, especially those with simpler estates, this is a reasonable solution. For others, particularly those with cross-border considerations, it may require careful drafting to avoid gaps.
Mirror Wills for Couples
Married couples often choose Mirror Wills. These are two separate Wills with near-identical terms, usually leaving assets to each other first and then to children and other beneficiaries.
Mirror Wills are not a separate legal category but a drafting approach that can be applied to DIFC Wills, Abu Dhabi Wills and Dubai Court Wills. They work well when both spouses share the same intentions, but they still allow each person to retain individual legal control.
Guardianship-Only Wills
Some parents, especially those in early stages of their career, may not have substantial assets yet but are deeply concerned about their children’s future. Guardianship-only Wills address this specific need.
These Wills focus on appointing temporary and permanent guardians for minor children. They are often used as an interim solution that can later be expanded into a full Will as assets grow.
Offshore or Foreign Wills
A common misconception is that a Will written in your home country automatically covers UAE assets. In reality, foreign Wills may not be recognised without additional court processes, translations, and legal validations.
While offshore or home country Wills can complement a UAE Will, relying on them alone often leads to delays and uncertainties. Most legal practitioners recommend a UAE-registered Will for assets or dependants based in the region.
Choosing the Right Will
The best Will is not about prestige or popularity. It is about what suits your needs the best. Consider where your assets are located, where you live, your family structure and how much complexity you want to manage in the future. For some, DIFC Wills offer peace of mind through a familiar structure. For others, Wills in Abu Dhabi provide convenience and jurisdictional alignment. The right choice is often clearer after a consultation.
