UAE Will Registration & Notarization: What You Need to Know

Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and your assets. In the UAE, registering and notarizing a will ensures that your wishes are legally recognized and carried out according to your instructions. Whether you are a UAE resident, an expatriate, or a business owner, understanding the process of will registration and notarization can save your family from legal disputes and delays in the future.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about UAE will registration and notarization – from why it’s important, to the types of wills you can make, to the step-by-step process of getting it legally validated.

Why Register and Notarize a Will in the UAE?

Without a registered will, your estate in the UAE will be distributed according to Sharia law, which may not align with your personal wishes—especially if you are a non-Muslim expatriate. Registering and notarizing your will ensures:

• Your assets are distributed as per your wishes.
• Guardianship of your children is legally secured.
• Your family avoids lengthy and costly legal disputes.
• International assets can also be covered (if included in the will).

Types of Wills in the UAE

The UAE allows both Muslims and non-Muslims to register wills, but the applicable laws and registration authorities differ:

1. DIFC Wills for Non-Muslims

• Governed by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Wills Service Centre.
• Covers assets in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.
• Allows non-Muslims to distribute assets according to their home country laws.

2. Abu Dhabi Wills for Non-Muslims

• Registered with the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD).
• Can cover assets across all Emirates for non-Muslims.

3. Dubai Courts Wills

• Available for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
• Often registered in Arabic, requiring certified translation if drafted in another language.

4. Guardianship Wills

• Specifically for appointing legal guardians for minor children.
• Can be included in the main will or registered separately.

Will Registration Process in the UAE

While the process can vary depending on the emirate and the chosen registration authority, here’s a general step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Drafting the Will

• Consult a legal expert or notary service to ensure your will meets UAE legal requirements.
• Clearly state your assets, beneficiaries, and guardianship wishes.
• If the will is in English, arrange for a certified Arabic translation (unless registering with DIFC).

Step 2: Choosing the Registration Authority

• DIFC – For non-Muslims with assets in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.
• ADJD – For non-Muslims covering assets across the UAE.
• Dubai Courts / Other Emirates Courts – For Arabic wills and Muslim wills.

Step 3: Submitting Documents

Commonly required documents include:

• Original will and its translation (if required).
• Passport copies of the testator (will maker) and witnesses.
• Emirates ID copies.
• Proof of assets (property deeds, bank statements, company documents).

Step 4: Attending the Registration Appointment

• The testator must appear in person at the relevant authority.
• Witnesses may also be required (depending on the will type).

Step 5: Paying the Registration Fee

• Fees vary by authority. For example:
  • DIFC wills: AED 10,000 (full will), AED 5,000 (guardianship will).
  • ADJD wills: Approximately AED 950 – AED 2,500.

Will Notarization in the UAE

If you are not registering your will with an official wills registry, you may still notarize it through a private notary or local court notary.

Key Points About Notarization

• A notarized will is legal proof of the testator’s identity and intent.
• The notary verifies the document, witnesses the signing, and applies the official seal.
• Some expats choose notarization as an added layer of protection, even after registering the will.

Tips for a Legally Strong Will in the UAE

• Be Specific – Clearly list all assets and beneficiaries.
• Update Regularly – Review your will after major life events (marriage, divorce, birth of children, new property purchase).
• Avoid Ambiguity – Use precise language to prevent disputes.
• Consult an Expert – UAE laws are unique; professional guidance is essential.

How UAE Private Notary Can Help

At UAE Private Notary, we assist with:

• Drafting wills in compliance with UAE laws.
• Translation and legal review of wills.
• Registration with DIFC, ADJD, or local courts.
• Full notarization services for personal and corporate documents.

We make the process seamless, ensuring your wishes are protected and your loved ones are cared for without legal complications.