CONTEXT
A non-Muslim expatriate who dies in the UAE without a registered will creates significant legal uncertainty for their family. Assets are frozen, heirs have no automatic access to funds, and the applicable law depends on court determination rather than the deceased's wishes. Under legislation entering into force in June 2026, an estate without a will and without active heir claims may be recognised as heirless and transferred to state authorities. Registering a will is the only reliable protection against these outcomes.
LEGAL BASIS
- Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status for Non-Muslims
- New UAE Civil Code — entering into force 1 June 2026
- DIFC Wills Service (Dubai)
- Abu Dhabi Judicial Department — Will Registration Service
WHAT HAPPENS WITHOUT A REGISTERED WILL
Applicable law: Under Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022, non-Muslims may elect the application of their home country law to inheritance matters. If no election has been made and no will exists, the court determines the applicable law based on conflict-of-law rules and the specific circum...