Benefits of Wills Registration for Expat Muslims Living in the UAE
For many expatriate Muslims living in the UAE, plans for the future typically focus on financial security, education, and the well-being of their families. Registering a will is usually overlooked in these plans. Beyond the distribution of assets, there are a lot more benefits associated with registering wills for expat muslims in the UAE.
Before we delve into these benefits, let’s talk about why wills are important for Muslim Expats in the UAE.
Why is a Will Important for Muslim Expats in the UAE?
For muslim expats living in Dubai, will registration is one of the most important legitimate steps to protect both your assets and your family members. Sharing of assets according to Sharia regulations can result in outcomes that don’t reflect your wishes, especially when joint bank accounts, real estate, and overseas beneficiaries are involved.
By registering a will in the UAE, you remain in full control of your estate, deciding who receives your properties, business shares, and other assets. A will gives your family members a clear path to follow, reducing uncertainty during a difficult time. More importantly, a valid will gives you the power to appoint a trusted guardian for minors in your family rather than leaving the decision in the hands of the court.
For Muslim expatriates in the UAE, inheritance matters can become complicated when assets are spread across multiple countries. While UAE courts apply Sharia-based rules to local assets, properties, or investments abroad may be governed by entirely different legitimate systems, creating the risk of conflicting outcomes. Without a coordinated estate plan and a registered will in the UAE, heirs may face delays, parallel court proceedings, and challenges in proving their rights, especially when cross-border documentation needs authentication.
What are the Benefits of Will Registration for Expat Muslims in the UAE?
Creating and registering a will for expat Muslims in the UAE has multiple benefits. Here are five key ones you should be aware of:
- Distribution of Assets: By registering a will in the UAE, a Muslim expatriate can document their wishes for matters such as guardianship, personal bequests, and the allocation of up to one-third of their estate to non-heirs or specific beneficiaries, while ensuring the remaining distribution complies with Sharia inheritance rules.
- Appointment of Executors and Guardians: A registered will allows the testator, the person creating the will, to appoint an executor of their choice, who will be responsible for managing the estate and ensuring the will’s instructions are carried out. It also enables the testator to name a guardian for any minor children, providing clarity and legitimate authority for their care in the event of the testator’s death.
- Avoidance of Intestacy Regulations: Without a registered will, a Muslim expatriate’s estate in the UAE will be distributed according to Sharia-based intestacy regulatory requirements, which may not reflect their wishes. By registering a will, the testator can exercise a degree of control over their estate, particularly regarding guardianship, personal bequests, and the allocation of up to one-third of assets to beneficiaries outside the fixed Sharia shares.
- Prevention of Family disputes: By clearly outlining asset distribution and appointing guardians, a registered will provides a solid, legitimate framework that reduces ambiguity, prevents misunderstandings, and minimizes the risk of disputes among family members.
- Expressing Specific Wishes: A will allows an individual to express specific wishes regarding the distribution of certain assets, charitable donations, or other permitted matters under Sharia. This ensures their intentions are clearly documented and more likely to be respected and carried out after their passing.
How FVR helps you secure your legacy
FVR Corporate Services specialises in UAE wills registration for Expat Muslims, ensuring full compliance with local and Sharia regulations.
We Offer:
- Free Consultation: Your first meeting with us is free.
- Expert Bespoke Solutions: Your family's situation and needs are unique, and your will should be prepared accordingly.
- Full compliance: We ensure your will meets UAE Court requirements and Sharia inheritance rules, including registration, translation, and guardianship.
Don’t waste any more time. Contact us today to secure your legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can Muslim expats in the UAE distribute their entire estate however they wish?
A1: No. Under UAE law, Muslim estates are typically distributed in accordance with Sharia inheritance principles. However, a will allows the testator to make personal requests, such as charitable donations or gifts to non-heirs, within the one-third discretionary portion permitted by Sharia.
Q2: Is a will made in my home country valid in the UAE?
A2: Not automatically. Foreign wills may need to be translated, notarized, and legitimateised, and still may face challenges in UAE courts. For assets located in the UAE, it is strongly recommended to register a will with the relevant UAE authority to ensure enforceability.
Q3: Do I need a representative to register my will in the UAE?
A3: While it is not mandatory, seeking guidance is highly recommended to ensure your will complies with UAE law, reflects your intentions accurately, and avoids potential challenges.
Q4: What happens if I move away?
A4: Your UAE Will remains valid even after you relocate, though if you acquire assets in a new country, it’s wise to review your will to make sure it covers everything accurately.