ADJD Will Registration in Abu Dhabi. Under the latest Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021 (Civil Family Law), securing a Civil Will is the most critical step for expatriates to protect UAE-based assets. However, generic guides often miss the practical “insider” details that impact your actual court timeline. This 2026 guide covers the exclusive procedural shortcuts, including how to register without a UAE Pass and from anywhere in the world.

🌍 1. Eligibility: Residents, Non-Residents, and Muslim Expats

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) offers the most inclusive will registry in the Middle East. Unlike other jurisdictions, eligibility is broad:

• Non-Resident Property Owners: You do not need to be a UAE resident to register. If you own a property or investment in the UAE, you can secure it with an ADJD Will.
• All Religions (Including Muslims): A major 2026 update confirms that non-Emirati Muslim expatriates can now register Civil Wills to opt-out of Sharia-based distribution.
• Strict Exclusion: This service remains unavailable to UAE and GCC Citizens, who are governed by mandatory local Sharia laws.

💰 2. Official ADJD Registration Fees (2026)

The ADJD remains the most cost-effective legal jurisdiction in the UAE.

Note: These fees are for the court registration. Legal drafting & Legal Translation by a Ministry of Justice-certified translator is a separate but mandatory requirement for the bilingual (Arabic/English) document.

🚀 3. The “Insider” Registration Process & Timelines

Step 1: The UAE Pass Professional Shortcut

While individual applicants typically need a UAE Pass, there is a specialized bypass. If you register through a company officially registered with the Abu Dhabi Courts, you do not need a personal UAE Pass. This is essential for international investors who do not have a local Emirates ID.

Step 2: Realistic 2026 Timelines

Do not be misled by “instant” claims. Here is the actual 2026 court reality:

• Initial Approval: Typically takes 2–3 working days.
• The Hearing Gap: Depending on the court’s schedule and high demand, the actual hearing date can take up to 30 days.
• Global Attendance: The final notarization is a Video Court Session. You can attend this from any place in the world via a secure link provided by the court.

Step 3: Verification & Digital Issuance

Upon successful notarization during the video call, you receive a Digital Registered Will with a verifiable QR code. This document is recognized by all UAE authorities, including the Land Department and Central Bank.

🛡️ 4. Why an ADJD Civil Will is Legally Superior

• Nationwide Enforcement: Although registered in Abu Dhabi, it is legally binding for assets in all seven Emirates (Dubai, Sharjah, etc.).
• Guardianship Security: It allows you to name interim and permanent guardians immediately, preventing children from being placed in temporary state care during emergencies.
• Asset Freezing Protection: A registered Will prevents the immediate freezing of bank accounts and properties, which is the default procedure for intestate (no Will) deaths in the UAE.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): ADJD Will Registration

1. Is ADJD will registration online fully remote, or do I need to visit the court?

Yes, the ADJD will registration online process is 100% remote. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has fully digitized the service for non-Muslims. You do not need to visit the court in person. The entire process—from document upload to identity verification—is conducted via a secure video conferencing call (using WebEx) with a notary. Once approved, you receive a digitally certified Will with a verification QR code.

2. What is the official ADJD non-Muslim will cost in 2026?

The government fee for an ADJD non-Muslim will cost is set at AED 950 for a single Will and AED 1,900 for mirror Wills (for couples). Note that this fee covers the court registration only; you may incur separate costs for legal translation (into Arabic) if your draft is in English, as the court requires a bilingual document.

3. Why is the Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court will considered the authoritative option for expats?

The Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court will is the official legal instrument backed by the Abu Dhabi government under the Civil Marriage and Family Law (Law No. 14 of 2021). Registering here ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes rather than Sharia law, and the Will is legally valid across all 7 Emirates, including for assets located in Dubai.

4. How do I register will in Abu Dhabi online if I am outside the UAE?

To register will in Abu Dhabi online from abroad, you must have a UAE Pass or work with a registered law firm that can submit on your behalf. The process involves three steps:

1. Drafting: Create a bilingual Will (English & Arabic).
2. Submission: Upload the draft and your ID to the ADJD portal.
3. Video Notarization: Attend a scheduled video call where the notary reads the Will to confirm your intent. Once completed, the digital Will is emailed to you, valid immediately for asset protection.

5. Can I use an ADJD Will if my property is in Dubai?

Yes. Law No. 14 of 2021 ensures that an Abu Dhabi-registered Civil Will is enforceable across the entire UAE.

6. Is the video hearing conducted in English?

Yes, the ADJD Notaries for the Non-Muslim Wills Office are fluent in English. However, your document must be bilingual.

7.What happens if I don’t register?

Without a Will, your UAE assets are distributed according to Sharia Law (for Muslims) or potentially complex home-country laws that require expensive court intervention in the UAE.

Secure your family’s future today!