In the UAE, protecting our assets and wishes is key. Registering a will in Abu Dhabi Court is a vital step. It helps both Muslims and non-Muslims. This guide covers will drafting and registration in Abu Dhabi. We’ll look at the types of wills, needed documents, fees, and the role of lawyers.
Key Takeaways
- Abu Dhabi has a simple process for will drafting and registration, for everyone.
- Knowing the different will types in Abu Dhabi is crucial for good estate planning.
- You need certain documents for will registration, like ID and property proof, for a smooth process.
- Working with a UAE will lawyer can help with drafting, legal issues, and protecting assets.
- A registered will can handle probate and inheritance disputes, making sure your wishes are followed.
Understanding Wills in Abu Dhabi Courts
Having a will is crucial for those with assets in the UAE. It makes sure your wishes are followed after you pass away. Registering your will in Abu Dhabi Courts has many benefits. It can exempt you from Sharia law, let you choose guardians for kids, and protect your bank accounts and assets.
By making and registering a will, you can ensure your loved ones are taken care of. This also helps avoid disputes over inheritance.
Importance of Having a Will
In the UAE, you must be at least 21 to write a legal will. Your will must be in writing, as verbal ones are not valid. You need to be of sound mind and have two adult witnesses who are not beneficiaries present when you sign it.
Benefits of Registering a Will in Abu Dhabi
Registering your will in Abu Dhabi has many benefits. For non-Muslims, it protects the distribution of assets outside the UAE from Sharia law. It also lets you choose guardians for your minor children, ensuring their care.
The process also safeguards your bank accounts and other assets from inheritance disputes.
While the rules for will registration vary, getting legal advice is key. This ensures your will meets all necessary laws and rules. Wills in English and Arabic are accepted in certain places like DIFC Wills and ADJD. It’s also important to know how to update or revoke your will in the UAE to reflect your current wishes.
Types of Wills Recognized in Abu Dhabi
In Abu Dhabi, there are two main types of wills: the Single Will and the Mirror Will. These wills help people and couples manage their assets after they pass away. They ensure that assets are given out as the person wishes.
Single Will
A Single Will is for one person. It outlines how their assets and money will be shared after they die. It’s a clear way to organize estate planning and make it legal.
Mirror Will
A Mirror Will is for couples. It has two wills that are the same. This way, partners can make sure their wishes for asset distribution match. It’s a popular choice for couples who want to plan their estates together.
Both the single will and mirror will are useful for people and couples in Abu Dhabi. They help control asset distribution and care for loved ones. Knowing the difference between these will types helps residents make better estate planning choices.
Guidelines for Wills of Muslims
In Abu Dhabi, Muslim individuals must follow Sharia law for their wills. Sharia law says only two-thirds of the estate can go to legal heirs and beneficiaries. The other one-third must go to charity, like for funeral costs.
Sharia law also states that a son gets twice as much as a daughter. The share for a surviving spouse depends on if there are children. This way, the inheritance is fair and follows Islamic rules.
- Two-thirds of the estate can be distributed among legal heirs and beneficiaries
- One-third of the estate is reserved for charitable causes, such as funeral expenses
- Sons receive twice the share of daughters
- Asset distribution for a surviving spouse is based on the presence of children
Muslims in Abu Dhabi can make sure their assets are given out as they wish. This follows their religious beliefs and Sharia law. It brings peace of mind and makes sure their wishes are followed after they pass away.
Cost of Will Registration | Abu Dhabi | Dubai |
---|---|---|
Single Will | AED 950 | AED 2,000 – AED 10,000 at Dubai Courts |
Mirror Will | AED 1,900 | AED 15,000 – AED 20,000 at DIFC |
The will registration process at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) can be done from anywhere. This makes it easy for Muslims to make sure their assets are given out as they wish.
Guidelines for Wills of Non-Muslims
The Abu Dhabi Courts offer a flexible approach for non-Muslims to register their wills. They can be exempt from Sharia law. This lets non-Muslim residents and expatriates in the UAE distribute their assets as they wish.
Inclusion of Overseas Assets
The Abu Dhabi Wills Registry can include assets outside the UAE. This gives full protection for the testator’s estate. It lets non-Muslims distribute their global assets as they wish, no matter where they are.
The fee for a Single Will at the Non-Muslims Wills Office in Abu Dhabi is AED 950, including VAT. Mirror Wills cost AED 1,900. The approval process takes about 3 to 4 working days. After approval, individuals get two copies of their registered will.
Non-Muslim residents in the UAE, especially in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, can also use specific registries. For example, the DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) Wills and Probate Registry allows wills based on their home country’s laws.
Will Draft & Registration in Abu Dhabi Court
Drafting and registering a will with the Abu Dhabi Courts is key to protecting your estate. It ensures your wishes are followed after you pass away. You can get help from a will lawyer or do it yourself, but make sure it follows the court’s rules.
After making the will, you need to register it with the Abu Dhabi Wills Registry. You’ll need to submit your documents and pay fees. This makes sure your will is legally recognized and followed by the courts.
The Will Drafting and Registration Process
- Consult with a will lawyer or draft the will yourself, ensuring it meets the court’s guidelines.
- Submit the completed will to the Abu Dhabi Wills Registry, along with the required supporting documents.
- Pay the registration fees, which include the ADJD Registration Fee and any applicable typing costs.
- Receive confirmation of the will’s registration and legal status.
Remember, a will registered with the Abu Dhabi Wills Registry can protect your assets in the UAE and abroad. This estate planning solution ensures your wishes are carried out, even with unexpected life changes.
Package | Cost | Potential Savings |
---|---|---|
Single Will | AED 2,799 – AED 5,999 | Up to AED 3,000 |
Single Will + POA | AED 3,499 – AED 7,199 | Up to AED 3,500 |
Single Will + Home Country Will | AED 3,699 – AED 8,199 | Up to AED 4,300 |
Single Will + POA + Home Country Will | AED 4,399 – AED 10,199 | Up to AED 5,600 |
Mirror Wills | AED 3,799 – AED 7,999 | Up to AED 4,000 |
Mirror Wills + POAs | AED 4,799 – AED 10,399 | Up to AED 5,400 |
Mirror Wills + Home Country Wills | AED 4,799 – AED 13,999 | Up to AED 9,000 |
Mirror Wills + POAs + Home Country Wills | AED 5,799 – AED 16,399 | Up to AED 10,400 |
Drafting and registering a will with the Abu Dhabi Courts meets your estate planning needs. It gives you peace of mind for you and your loved ones. By going through this process, you can protect your assets and your family’s future.
Required Documents for Will Registration
To register a will in Abu Dhabi, you need to gather many documents. You’ll need your Emirates ID and passport. Also, if your will includes property, you must show proof of ownership.
The person making the will must be there or have someone with Power of Attorney to act for them.
Identity Documents
To register a will in Abu Dhabi, you need to provide:
- Copy of Emirates ID
- Copy of passport
Property Ownership Evidence
If your will mentions property, you must show:
- Copy of property title deed
- Copy of property registration certificate
- Proof of ownership for any other assets mentioned in the will
If any documents are not in Arabic, they must be translated by a sworn translator. This is before you submit them for will registration.
Document Type | Requirement |
---|---|
Emirates ID | Copy required |
Passport | Copy required |
Property Title Deed | Copy required |
Property Registration Certificate | Copy required |
Other Asset Ownership Proof | Copy required |
Gathering these will registration documents, identity documents, and property ownership evidence helps. It makes the estate planning process smoother when registering your will in Abu Dhabi.
Fees for Will Registration and Probate
In Abu Dhabi, the costs for will registration and probate are key to consider. The Abu Dhabi Courts charge AED 750 to register a will. This fee does not include typing costs, which add AED 50.
For non-Muslims, getting probate costs AED 950. The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department sets these fees. You must pay them when registering your will.
There are also legal fees for making the will. These costs depend on the estate’s complexity. It’s crucial to include these expenses in your estate planning.
Service | Fee |
---|---|
Single Will Registration | AED 950 |
Mirror Will Registration | AED 1,900 |
Power of Attorney Registration (In-person) | AED 550 |
Power of Attorney Registration (Video Call) | AED 990 |
Will Amendment | AED 950 (Single Will), AED 1,900 (Mirror Will) |
5% VAT | Applicable on all packages |
Fees can change, so it’s wise to check with a legal expert or the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. They can give you the latest on will registration fees, probate fees, court costs, and estate planning in Abu Dhabi.
Appointing Guardians for Minor Children
In Abu Dhabi, estate planning is key to protecting minor children. Parents can register a will to name guardians. These guardians will care for and make decisions for the children if the parents are not around.
Choosing guardians for minor children is a big part of estate planning in Abu Dhabi. Expats, who might not have family nearby, can use this to protect their kids. Parents can pick both temporary and permanent guardians. This ensures their children get the care they need now and guidance in the future.
To legally name guardians for non-Muslim children, a registered will is needed. The DIFC Wills Service Centre and the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department allow for this. They also let you name temporary and permanent guardians. The DIFC WSC even offers a Guardianship-only Will, focusing on guardianship without financial details.
It’s wise to get legal advice to make sure the will reflects your wishes. The DIFC Wills and Probate Registry Rules, Section 86, cover guardianship for minor children in the UAE.
By naming guardians in a registered will, parents in Abu Dhabi can rest easy. They know their children are protected, no matter what happens.
Role of Will Lawyers in UAE
Looking for help with will drafting and registration in the UAE? A will lawyer can be very helpful. At Elnaggar & Partners, our experienced team offers expert advice. They help you create a will that meets court standards.
Our lawyers ensure your wishes are respected and your family is protected. They make sure your will is ready and registered correctly.
Assistance in Will Drafting
Will drafting in the UAE can be tricky, especially if you’re new to local laws. Our will lawyers work with you to create a detailed will. It can cover Property, Guardianship, Business, or Financial Assets.
We make sure your will is legal and fits your needs perfectly.
Legal Advice on Will Preparation
Our lawyers offer more than just drafting. They give legal advice every step of the way. They help with documents, registration, and any challenges you might face.
Our aim is to make sure your will follows UAE laws. This gives you peace of mind and secures your legacy.