Without a UAE will, an expat’s UAE assets may be distributed under Sharia law regardless of their religion. Here is the complete 2025 guide to DIFC wills for expats.
Why UAE Expats Need a DIFC Will
Under UAE federal law, if a non-Muslim expat dies without a UAE will, their UAE assets are distributed under UAE Federal Personal Status Law (which applies Sharia inheritance principles by default). This means: your UAE property, bank accounts, and company shares may NOT go to the people you intend. Specific risks: a wife may receive only 1/8 of the estate (not 50% as most Western jurisdictions would provide). Sons receive 2x the share of daughters under Sharia inheritance. Unmarried partners receive nothing. To avoid this: register a DIFC Will (or Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) will) that overrides the Sharia default for your UAE assets.
What is a DIFC Will?
The DIFC Wills Service Centre registers wills for non-Muslim expats covering UAE assets. DIFC will types: Full estate will: covers all UAE assets (property, bank accounts, shares, business interests, and personal belongings). Property will: covers only UAE real estate. Business owner will: covers company shares only. Guardianship will: appoints guardians for minor children in the UAE (critical for single parents or families where both parents are expats — without this, UAE courts decide guardianship). Financial assets will: covers bank accounts, investment accounts, and movable assets. Cost: DIFC Wills registration fee: approximately USD 1,500-4,200 depending on will type. Process: draft the will (with a UAE lawyer), attend a DIFC Wills registration appointment (identity verification and witnessing), will is registered and stored in the DIFC Wills Registry.