For expatriates in Dubai, creating a will is an act of responsibility. It provides clear instructions for asset distribution and guardianship, offering peace of mind and security for loved ones. The process is structured and accessible.
This guide outlines the essential steps to legally register your will in the emirate. For tailored guidance, many residents consult experts like Just Wills Dubai.
Understand Your Options:
Dubai offers specific legal frameworks for wills. The most common for non-Muslims is registration at the Dubai Courts or the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Wills and Probate Registry. The DIFC Wills Service is particularly popular, as it allows you to use English and specify the distribution of worldwide assets according to principles of common law. Determine which jurisdiction aligns with your assets and personal circumstances.
Draft Your Will:
You must prepare a complete draft of your will. This document should clearly list your assets, name your beneficiaries, and appoint an executor to administer your estate. You should also designate guardians for minor children, if applicable. While you can draft this yourself, using a legal professional ensures the document meets all formal requirements and addresses complex situations.
Schedule an Appointment:
Once your draft is ready, contact your chosen registry to book an appointment. For the DIFC, you do this directly through the DIFC Wills Service. You will receive a checklist of required documents, which typically includes your passport, visa, and copies of asset documents like property deeds.
Attend the Registration Meeting:
You and two witnesses must attend the appointment in person. The witnesses should not be beneficiaries or executors named in the will. A registry official will verify everyone’s identities. They will then walk you through the will, clause by clause, to confirm you understand its contents and are signing under your own volition.
Sign and Register:
After the explanation, you and your witnesses sign the will in the presence of the official. The registry then stamps and seals the document, providing it with full legal standing. They will give you a certified copy and register the will in their secure database. You receive a unique registration number.
Store and Update Securely:
Keep your original registered will in a very safe place and inform your executor of its location. The DIFC registry also offers secure storage services. Remember to review your will every few years or after major life events. You can amend it through a codicil or create a new one, following a similar registration process.
