Wills of non-Muslims can now be attested at Dubai courts

Dubai: The Dubai Courts Notary Public Department will be available to attest the wills of non-Muslims from October 1.

The decision is part of a drive to improve services offered to the public by the courts, explained the Notary Public, Abdullah Abdul Wahid Al Ali, acting Director of the Notary Public Department.

He said the new ruling is in line with Notary Public laws and was introduced by Judge Jassem Baqer, Head of the Court of First Instance.

Al Ali pointed out that attesting the will does not necessarily mean it will be implemented, as each case is different and subject to the law.

Before now, attestation of wills for non-Muslims could be done only at embassies and consulates, as well as some licensed offices in free zones.
However, now the Notary Public is the government body assigned to do this service.

Applicants who wish to have their wills attested must provide proof of ownership of the assets mentioned in the will and should submit the application personally or through a representative who must hold power of attorney that specifically mentions the will.

The will may include movable funds, and property, located in or outside the country. It is also possible to cancel or amend the will.