For expatriates building a life in Dubai, securing your family’s future requires proactive planning. A central component of this plan is a legally valid will. Without one, your assets may not reach your intended beneficiaries, causing distress and complexity for your loved ones. Finding out how to make a will in Dubai is the first step in preventing this.
Local Laws Dictate Distribution:
In the absence of a will, UAE inheritance laws apply. For non-Muslim expatriates, these laws can present challenges. The default application of Sharia principles means courts distribute assets according to a fixed formula. This often results in a spouse receiving only a portion of the estate, with the remainder divided among children or other blood relatives. This automatic process ignores personal relationships and financial needs, potentially leaving your spouse without sufficient support.
Guardianship Becomes Uncertain:
For expatriate parents, a will carries even greater importance. It is the primary legal instrument to appoint guardians for minor children. If both parents pass away without a will, local courts will decide who cares for your children. This decision may not align with your wishes and could lead to lengthy legal disputes among family members. A clear directive in your will provides stability and peace of mind for your children’s future.
Avoiding Lengthy Legal Complications:
Dying intestate without a will initiates a complex and public probate process in Dubai. Courts will freeze assets until they identify legal heirs, which can take many months. This freeze can create immediate financial hardship for a surviving family who depend on bank accounts or other assets. A properly registered will streamlines this process, allowing executors to administer your estate with greater speed and privacy.
Protecting Your Dubai Assets:
Your will should explicitly cover assets held within the UAE, such as bank accounts, vehicles, and real estate. For property, a Dubai will registered with the Dubai Courts or the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Wills Service provides the clearest protection. This specificity prevents conflicts and ensures local authorities recognize your instructions.
Taking the time to create a will is an act of responsibility. It provides clear instructions, reduces administrative burdens for your family, and ensures your hard-earned assets support the people you choose. Consult with a legal professional specializing in UAE expatriate affairs to draft a document that reflects your wishes and complies with local regulations. This simple act offers invaluable security for your life in Dubai.