Understanding how to make a will in UAE is important for residents, investors and expatriates holding assets in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Without one registered will, UAE courts might apply sharia-based inheritance rules by default that might not reflect personal intentions.

As per 2026, UAE offers clear civil law mechanics specifically through ADJD or DIFC that permits non-Muslims to control over asset succession, estate planning and guardianship.

Let’s explore this blog to learn how to make a will in the UAE.

Jurisdiction choices of how to make a will in UAE

Selecting the correct jurisdiction is the foundation of how to make a Will in UAE, as enforcement depends on the place of will registration. 

The UAE provides three primary jurisdictions to make a will in UAE:

• DIFC Wills Service Centre (Dubai): English language, expatriates and common law aligned. 
• Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD): Civil law framework under Abu Dhabi courts. 
• Dubai Courts Notary Public: Traditional notarial route and Arabic registration. 

Note: Every jurisdiction is distinct in terms of asset coverage, probate process, cost and language. Using the right forum directly implicates how to make a will in UAE translate into enforceable succession. 

Learn also about Wills for Muslims in UAE.

How to make a will in UAE?: DIFC vs ADJD

Acknowledging the difference between DIFC vs ADJD is essential to how to make a will in UAE for the non-Muslims. Here is a quick breakdown:

Aspect	DIFC Will (Dubai)	ADJD Will (Abu Dhabi)
Governing law	DIFC Wills & probate rules	Abu Dhabi civil law.
Language	English	Bilingual and Arabic.
Asset coverage	UAE wide	UAE wide
Guardianship	Yes	Yes
Court jurisdiction	DIFC Courts	Abu Dhabi courts.
Popular with	Expats and investors	Abu Dhabi residents.

Note: DIFC is majorly preferred for complex estates whereas ADJD is effective for Abu Dhabi based residents. 

Check in detail about DIFC and ADJD Wills.

Process overview to make a will in UAE 

The procedural clarity of how to make a will in UAE ensures predictability when done rightly. Here is a stepwise procedure for you:

1. At first apply for jurisdictions either DIFC or ADJD.
2. Prepare asset inventory (property, shares, bank accounts)
3. Draft will clauses (guardianship, executors, distribution)
4. Review legal compliance with UAE civil law.
5. Book registration appointment.
6. Attend in-person or virtual signing.
7. Collect official registration certificates.

Legal requirements of how to make a will in UAE

Accomplishing statutory requirements is necessary in how to make a will in UAE to be enforceable. Here are the key legal requirements that you need to know

• The testator needs to be 21 years or older.
• Individuals need to be of sound capacity. 
• Will must be voluntarily executed. 
• Registration must occur before an authorised authority. 
• Non-Muslims may opt out of Sharia inheritance. 
• Guardianship clauses must obey UAE child welfare rules. 

Note: Failing to meet such requirements can cause invalidation of the will. 

Conclusion

Acknowledging how to make a will in UAE permits individuals to avoid court delay, protect heirs and safeguard assets. With structured jurisdiction’s, clear legal requirements and transparent procedures both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are now offering globally recognized will registration frameworks.

It’s now your turn to plan your UAE will in 2026.

Let’s connect with us to ensure peace of mind, certainty and compliance for both businesses and family security. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)