What Happens to Your Assets in the UAE If You Pass Away Without a Will?
Let’s get real for a moment. As expats living in the UAE, most of us are so focused on enjoying the moment—building careers, raising families, exploring this beautiful region—that we forget one critical thing: what happens to our money, property, or even our children if something happens to us?
It’s not a fun topic, but it is an essential one. Succession laws in the UAE are very different from many of our home countries, and if you don’t have a local, registered will in place, your assets could be frozen, misallocated—or worse, tied up in court for years.
What Does UAE Law Say About Succession?
In the absence of a registered will, Sharia law is applied to all asset and guardianship decisions—even for non-Muslim expats.
This can have serious consequences:
Joint accounts can be frozen, even if your spouse is a co-signer
Children’s guardianship may not automatically go to the surviving parent
Assets may be distributed according to fixed inheritance shares, not based on your personal wishes
It’s not about fear—it’s about facts. And the fact is, unless you put a clear plan in writing, the local courts will make those decisions for you.
What’s a Living Will—and Why Do You Need One in the UAE?
A living will (or local will) is a legal document that states how your assets should be distributed and who should take care of your children if you pass away while residing in the UAE.
To be recognized here, your will must be properly registered—either with the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry in Dubai or the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court for non-Muslims.
Without this registration, your home-country will may not be enforceable in the UAE. And even if it is, the process to validate it can be long, costly, and emotionally draining for your loved ones.
Here’s What a Proper Will in the UAE Can Do:
Ensure your bank accounts and property are passed to your chosen beneficiaries
Appoint a guardian for your children, avoiding custody disputes
Give your spouse or partner access to joint accounts without delay
Avoid the automatic application of Sharia law to your estate
Speed up asset transfer and reduce the burden on your family
What Should You Do Next?
Review your current will – Is it recognized in the UAE? If not, you’ll need a new one.
Talk to a UAE-based legal advisor – Choose someone who specializes in expat estate planning.
Register your will – Either with DIFC or the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (depending on your location).
Let your family know where to find it – A plan is only helpful if people can access it.
Final Thought
Living abroad brings freedom, adventure, and opportunity—but it also brings complexity. Don’t let your legacy get lost in legal red tape. A simple, certified will can protect your family, your assets, and your peace of mind.
And honestly? You’ve worked too hard not to have a plan.
