Wills and Succession Planning in the UAE

We assist individuals and families with wills and succession planning in the United Arab Emirates, particularly where their assets or family circumstances involve more than one country.

We help you plan the distribution of your assets, appoint executors and make arrangements for your minor children.

Our knowledge of succession law in the UAE, France and Italy allows us to consider how your arrangements work together internationally, coordinating with advisers abroad where necessary.

We draft your wills and assist with registration, including through the DIFC or the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), depending on your circumstances and the applicable requirements.

Josephine D’Angelo has been registered as a wills draftsman with the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry since 2016.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why make a will if you own assets in the UAE?

A will allows you to set out your wishes for the distribution of your assets and appoint the people responsible for carrying out your instructions. Without a will, your estate will be dealt with under the local rules applicable to your circumstances, which may result in a distribution different from what you intended.

Is a will made abroad sufficient for my assets in the UAE?

A will registered abroad is not automatically recognised in the UAE. An application must be made to the competent local authority for recognition of the will and its implementation in relation to assets located in the UAE.

Can I appoint guardians for my minor children in my will?

A will can include the appointment of guardians for your minor children, depending on the registration framework chosen and the applicable rules. This helps you plan for their care if both parents were to pass away. These arrangements should reflect your family circumstances and be distinguished from provisions concerning the management of your children’s inheritance.

How do I choose between registering a will with the DIFC and the ADJD?

The choice depends on your eligibility, family circumstances, the assets concerned and your wishes. Drafting requirements, registration procedures and fees differ. We review these factors with you to identify a suitable option and coordinate your will with any existing arrangements abroad.

When should I review my will?

You should consider reviewing your will following a marriage, divorce, birth, significant change in your assets or the death of someone named in it. Moving to another country or acquiring assets abroad may also justify a review. Any changes must comply with the formalities of the relevant registration framework.