Why Expats in the UAE Must Have a Will – Protecting Your Business & Property?
The UAE continues to attract professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs from across the world. With its business-friendly environment and attractive real estate opportunities, thousands of expatriates have built successful lives here. But while planning for growth, many overlook one essential step — preparing a UAE expat will.
If you own a business or property in the UAE, registering a will isn’t just a formality; it is a legal necessity that protects your assets and loved ones from complex inheritance procedures.
Understanding the UAE Inheritance Framework
The UAE legal system combines civil law with Sharia principles, which govern inheritance in the absence of a registered will. For non-Muslim expats, this means that without a valid will registered in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the local courts will decide how your assets, including property, bank accounts, and business share,s are distributed.
This can create unintended outcomes, such as assets being frozen or distributed contrary to your wishes. Additionally, the guardianship of minor children may be determined by the court rather than by your chosen guardian.
Why a Will Is Essential for Business Owners?
For expatriates who own or co-own a company, a will for business succession is vital. In the event of death, a company’s shares and assets can be frozen until the court finalizes inheritance proceedings, potentially halting business operations.
A properly drafted DIFC and ADGM will ensure:
Whether you operate under a mainland license, free zone, or offshore entity, business succession planning in the UAE helps safeguard the legacy you’ve built.
Owning Property in the UAE — Why You Need a Registered Will?
Expats who own residential or commercial property in the UAE must also consider property will registration. Without a UAE-registered will, real estate may not automatically pass to your spouse or children, as inheritance follows local law.
You can register a property-specific will through:
Both are recognized authorities that allow non-Muslim expats to register wills according to international standards, ensuring their UAE assets are distributed as per their wishes.
The Broader Importance of Estate Planning in the UAE
A will is about more than asset distribution — it’s about control, clarity, and protection. Through estate planning in the UAE, you can:
For expatriates with assets both in the UAE and abroad, a comprehensive estate plan ensures smooth coordination between jurisdictions and peace of mind for loved ones.
How CLA Emirates Can Help?
At CLA Emirates, we specialize in guiding expats through will registration in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, helping them secure both personal and business assets under UAE law.
Our experts assist with:
We handle the process end-to-end from consultation to registration so you can focus on your future with confidence.
