Wills in Dubai

Making a will as a Dubai resident

Start with your family and estate, rather than a template. Your will should identify your intended beneficiaries, the person responsible for administering your estate and the alternative arrangements if a first choice cannot act or inherit. Where relevant, discuss your minor children, business interests and any existing wills in other countries.

Rabiey Ebada is a sworn legal translator licensed by the UAE Ministry of Justice, with a diploma in inheritance law, more than 13 years of experience and over 1,000 wills prepared. The service brings drafting and English–Arabic translation together, helping you review the same instructions in both languages.

Where can a will be registered?

For non-Muslim clients, registration options include ADJD in Abu Dhabi, Dubai Courts and DIFC Courts, subject to each authority’s requirements. These are separate routes; a will prepared for one registry should not simply be submitted unchanged to another.

Muslim clients using our service register through ADJD in Abu Dhabi. Living in Dubai does not, by itself, mean that registration must take place through a Dubai registry. ADJD’s civil-will guidance allows non-UAE citizens to register regardless of religion, subject to the applicable process.

Single or mirror wills?

A single will records one person’s instructions. Mirror wills are two separate documents with corresponding provisions, commonly used by spouses. Each person retains their own will and registration.

Our will preparation service

• Will drafting based on your instructions.
• Review of the English and Arabic wording.
• Sworn English–Arabic legal translation.
• Assistance with the court registration process.
• Booking the court video-call appointment.

Single will: AED 999. Mirror wills: AED 1,499 for two separate wills. Court registration fees are additional.

What happens next?

We discuss your instructions, confirm the intended registry, prepare and review the wording, assist with the application and book the court video-call appointment. The registry controls approval and appointment availability; the expected timetable is discussed for your selected route.

Questions from Dubai clients

Is this the same as will registration in Dubai?

This page explains preparing a will while living in Dubai. For the application process and differences between Dubai Courts and DIFC, see will registration in Dubai.

What is the total price?

Add the relevant court fee to the preparation fee. See our cost guide or request an itemised quotation before proceeding.

Official references: ADJD civil wills guidance · DIFC Courts wills FAQ. Reviewed 4 November 2026.