Dubai: A new service allows non-Muslims who own assets in Dubai to register their English-language wills in the emirate which exempts them from Sharia succession, Gulf News has learnt.
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) announced on Monday the launch of the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry, established by Resolution No. 4 of 2014.
The new service provides non-Muslim expatriates the ability to register wills written in English that will allow their assets to be transferred upon death according to their wishes.
In general, without a registered will, Shariah-based UAE federal laws guide the distribution of assets of a deceased non-Muslim expatriate in Dubai.
Eisa Kazim, Governor of the DIFC, said: “We are pleased to announce the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry, a first for the MENA region.”
A first
Kazim said: “The new Registry reflects respect for the diversity of the UAE community and the keenness of our country to provide new frameworks for strengthening the legal environment in line with the community’s needs and requirements.
The initiative confirms the country’s leadership in various sectors and further enhances Dubai’s attractiveness as a destination for investment, supporting greater economic growth, stability and prosperity.”
Michael Hwang, Head of the Dispute Resolution Authority and the Chief Justice of the DIFC Courts, explained: “The objective of the DIFC Wills and Probate Registry is to give expatriates a legal solution to secure their family’s
future after their death.”
“The Registry creates legal certainty that the testator’s Dubai-based assets will be distributed as set out in their registered wills. The new regime reflects the spirit of existing UAE laws," Hwang told a briefing on Monday.
The Registry exists under the jurisdiction of the DIFC Courts, which will handle all probate claims related to the registered wills.
Only estates in the Emirate of Dubai will be covered by the service for both residents and non-residents, the DIFC has announced in a statement.
Registration appointments can be made online here.
