Do expats need a will in the UAE, and what happens if you die without one?

A will is not compulsory, but it is strongly advisable for expats. If you die without a registered will, the local courts of the emirate where your assets are held apply default inheritance rules to your estate, which are Sharia-based for Muslims. UAE legal commentators report that bank accounts, including joint accounts, can be frozen until the court determines inheritance that a surviving mother does not automatically become guardian of minor children, and that company shares become part of the estate and go through probate. Since 1 February 2023, Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 also lets non-Muslim residents choose their home-country law or the UAE civil personal status law, but a registered will remains the clearest way to name your beneficiaries, executor and guardians.

Where can non-Muslim expats register a will in the UAE: DIFC, Dubai Courts or Abu Dhabi?

Non-Muslim expats can register a will with the DIFC Courts Wills Service in Dubai, the Dubai Courts Notary Public, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), or ADGM Courts, which works in partnership with ADJD. The DIFC Courts Wills Service, which uses an English common-law framework, requires that you are not and have never been Muslim, are at least 18, and own assets in the UAE and/or have minor children residing here. DIFC registration is completed by video call, so you can register from anywhere in the world. The best route depends on your assets, family situation and budget. SecureXpats guides you through the options and coordinates registration through approved channels.

How much does it cost to register a will in the UAE?

Government registration fees depend on the registry and the type of will. The DIFC Courts publish these fees: AED 10,000 for a single Full Will (AED 15,000 for a couple's mirror wills), AED 5,000 for a Guardianship Will (AED 7,500 mirror), AED 7,500 for a Property Will (AED 10,000 mirror), and AED 5,000 for a Business Owners or Financial Assets Will (AED 7,500 mirror). Modifying a registered DIFC will costs AED 550, and DIFC fees are not subject to 5% VAT? ADJD in Abu Dhabi has published a standard will registration fee of AED 950. Legal drafting is charged separately, and fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the registry. SecureXpats offers free first advice and explains the expected fee before any work begins.

Can I appoint a guardian for my children in a UAE will?

Yes. A DIFC Guardianship Will or Full Will lets you appoint both an interim (temporary) guardian and a permanent guardian for your minor children. Under DIFC rules, the children must be residents of Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah at the time of probate for the guardianship provisions to apply, each guardian signs a Guardianship Statement, and guardians and their spouses cannot attend the will-signing appointment. This matters because, under default Sharia-based rules, UAE legal commentators note that a surviving mother does not automatically assume guardianship of her children. Other registries, including ADJD in Abu Dhabi, also allow guardians to be named in a registered will.

Is a will made in my home country valid in the UAE?

Not reliably. UAE courts have discretion over whether to uphold a will made abroad, and the DIFC Courts note that a will drafted under another jurisdiction generally has to be redrafted to meet DIFC registration rules. If you own assets in more than one country, your wills need to be coordinated, because the DIFC Courts warn that a later will made elsewhere can invalidate your DIFC will if it is not drafted correctly. A DIFC Full Will can list assets outside the UAE, but enforcement abroad is not guaranteed. Take legal advice from a licensed lawyer, and use SecureXpats for the registration and documentation steps.

Do expats need a will in the UAE, and what happens if you die without one?

A will is not compulsory, but it is strongly advisable for expats. If you die without a registered will, the local courts of the emirate where your assets are held apply default inheritance rules to your estate, which are Sharia-based for Muslims. UAE legal commentators report that bank accounts, including joint accounts, can be frozen until the court determines inheritance that a surviving mother does not automatically become guardian of minor children, and that company shares become part of the estate and go through probate. Since 1 February 2023, Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 also lets non-Muslim residents choose their home-country law or the UAE civil personal status law, but a registered will remains the clearest way to name your beneficiaries, executor and guardians.

Where can non-Muslim expats register a will in the UAE: DIFC, Dubai Courts or Abu Dhabi?

Non-Muslim expats can register a will with the DIFC Courts Wills Service in Dubai, the Dubai Courts Notary Public, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), or ADGM Courts, which works in partnership with ADJD. The DIFC Courts Wills Service, which uses an English common-law framework, requires that you are not and have never been Muslim, are at least 18, and own assets in the UAE and/or have minor children residing here. DIFC registration is completed by video call, so you can register from anywhere in the world. The best route depends on your assets, family situation and budget. SecureXpats guides you through the options and coordinates registration through approved channels.

How much does it cost to register a will in the UAE?

Government registration fees depend on the registry and the type of will. The DIFC Courts publish these fees: AED 10,000 for a single Full Will (AED 15,000 for a couple's mirror wills), AED 5,000 for a Guardianship Will (AED 7,500 mirror), AED 7,500 for a Property Will (AED 10,000 mirror), and AED 5,000 for a Business Owners or Financial Assets Will (AED 7,500 mirror). Modifying a registered DIFC will costs AED 550, and DIFC fees are not subject to 5% VAT? ADJD in Abu Dhabi has published a standard will registration fee of AED 950. Legal drafting is charged separately, and fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the registry. SecureXpats offers free first advice and explains the expected fee before any work begins.

Can I appoint a guardian for my children in a UAE will?

Yes. A DIFC Guardianship Will or Full Will lets you appoint both an interim (temporary) guardian and a permanent guardian for your minor children. Under DIFC rules, the children must be residents of Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah at the time of probate for the guardianship provisions to apply, each guardian signs a Guardianship Statement, and guardians and their spouses cannot attend the will-signing appointment. This matters because, under default Sharia-based rules, UAE legal commentators note that a surviving mother does not automatically assume guardianship of her children. Other registries, including ADJD in Abu Dhabi, also allow guardians to be named in a registered will.

Is a will made in my home country valid in the UAE?

Not reliably. UAE courts have discretion over whether to uphold a will made abroad, and the DIFC Courts note that a will drafted under another jurisdiction generally has to be redrafted to meet DIFC registration rules. If you own assets in more than one country, your wills need to be coordinated, because the DIFC Courts warn that a later will made elsewhere can invalidate your DIFC will if it is not drafted correctly. A DIFC Full Will can list assets outside the UAE, but enforcement abroad is not guaranteed. Take legal advice from a licensed lawyer, and use SecureXpats for the registration and documentation steps.

How long does it take to receive the marriage certificate?

Once all documents are in order, the certificate is issued as part of the ceremony process. ADJD aims to complete the ceremony itself in about 15 minutes. Overall timing depends on appointment availability, so we book your slot early.

Do I need to be a UAE resident to marry in the UAE?

Not in Abu Dhabi. Visitors can apply, but must attend the ceremony in Abu Dhabi.

Can we hold the ceremony remotely?

ADJD has offered virtual ceremonies by video conference. Availability and conditions are confirmed at booking, and we will tell you what applies to your case.

What are the requirements for foreign nationals to marry in the UAE?

Foreign nationals need valid passports, proof of single status and the additional documents the relevant court requires. Requirements can vary with your circumstances, and we confirm the exact list for your nationality before you apply.

What are the steps for civil marriage in Abu Dhabi?

Submit the application with your documents, receive your ceremony date by email from ADJD, then attend the ceremony and sign the marriage certificate.

What is the purpose of a prenuptial agreement in the UAE?

A prenuptial agreement sets out how assets and debts are divided if the marriage ends. It is not compulsory, but it gives both parties clear financial expectations from the start.

What should I do if I need to amend information on my marriage certificate?

Reach out to us. We will submit the relevant documents and proof to support your request for changes.

Can I use my certificate abroad?

Yes, after attestation. We can arrange attestation of your certificate for international use on request.

What is a certified true copy and when is it required?

A certified true copy is a photocopy that an authorised person has checked against the original and certified as accurate. It is commonly required for visa applications, bank account opening, company formation, university admissions and submissions to government departments and embassies.

Does a certified true copy prove my original document is genuine?

No. It confirms only that the copy matches the original. Authenticating the original itself is a different process, such as notarisation or MOFA attestation.

How long does it take to get a certified passport copy in Dubai?

Timing depends on appointment availability and the documents involved. Tell us your deadline when you request a quote, and we confirm what is possible before you commit. You can choose an online appointment or visit our office.

Who can certify a true copy in Dubai?

Authorised persons such as notaries and lawyers can certify copies, depending on the document and the receiving party. We guide you to the right route for your purpose.

Why do I need a certified passport copy in Dubai?

A certified passport copy is often required for applying for a second nationality, opening a bank account, submitting tax-related documents, buying or selling real estate and academic admissions.

Can I certify documents in languages other than English or Arabic?

Often yes. Share the document with us and we confirm whether a legal translation is needed for your purpose.

Do I need MOFA or embassy attestation as well?

Only if the copy will be used abroad or the receiving authority asks for it. Tell us where the document will be used and we confirm which steps apply.

Can I complete the process online?

Yes. You can choose an online appointment or visit our office. We confirm what to have ready before your appointment.

How long does company formation in the UAE take?

It depends on the route. A Meydan Free Zone licence can be issued in about six days after you submit a complete application. A Dubai mainland licence typically takes around ten working days, with visas following afterwards. ADGM and DIFC take longer, especially for regulated activities.

Can foreigners own 100% of a UAE company?

Yes, for most business activities in the mainland and in free zones. A few strategic sectors still carry ownership rules, and we check your activity before you apply.

What is the difference between a mainland and a free zone company?

A mainland company can trade anywhere in the UAE and bid for government tenders, but it needs a physical office. A free zone company offers flexible office options and simpler setup, and it trades within the zone and internationally. Selling into the mainland needs an extra permit or a local distributor.

How much does it cost to set up a company in Dubai?

The cost of a mainland licence depends on your licence, activity, visas and office. As a guide, expect roughly AED 23,000 to 31,000 for one or two visas, before office rent. Free zone packages vary by zone and visa allowance, and DIFC and ADGM fees depend on the licence category. We share a written quote once we have reviewed your activity.

Do I need a physical office in Dubai?

For a mainland licence, yes. The authority verifies your premises before the licence is issued. Many free zones offer flexible desk or office packages, and an offshore company needs no UAE office.

Do free zone companies pay corporate tax?

Yes, they must register. Qualifying Free Zone Persons pay 0% on qualifying income, and non-qualifying income is taxed at 9% above AED 375,000. Your accountant should confirm which rate applies to your income.

What is the difference between DIFC and ADGM?

Both are international financial centres with their own common-law frameworks. DIFC is in Dubai and its financial firms are regulated by the DFSA. ADGM is in Abu Dhabi, with the Registration Authority licensing commercial firms and the FSRA regulating financial services.

Can an offshore company trade in the UAE?

No. An offshore company is a non-resident holding or international trading entity. It cannot trade with UAE customers, sponsor visas or lease UAE office space. If you need any of those, choose a mainland or free zone licence instead.

Which documents do I need to start?

Individual shareholders need a passport copy, a digital passport photo and, if they live in the UAE, a residence visa and Emirates ID. Corporate shareholders need notarised incorporation documents, a certificate of incumbency issued within the last 3 months, a Memorandum of Association and a board resolution.

Can you help with visas and a bank account?

Yes. We support visa applications and bank account opening after your licence is issued, and we also offer accounting and bookkeeping services.

Where can I find notary services in Dubai?

SecureXpats is based in Business Bay, Dubai. We help individuals and businesses with notarization, POA paperwork, attestation and certified true copies, coordinating with licensed notaries public across the UAE. Visit our office or reach out online.

What is POA notarization?

It is the process where a licensed notary public confirms that a Power of Attorney was signed voluntarily by the person granting it, so it is legally recognized. We prepare your paperwork and coordinate the appointment.

Do I need to notarize a POA in the UAE?

Most POAs used for personal, property or business matters need notarization by a licensed notary public to be accepted by government departments, banks and courts. We can tell you what your specific POA requires.

Can I get notary assistance near me without visiting a court?

Yes. Searching for a POA notary near me often just means you want to skip the court queues. Private notaries in the UAE can notarize many documents outside court premises, and in some cases online. We coordinate the option that fits your document, either at our Business Bay office or remotely.

How much does a POA cost in Dubai?

The cost depends on the POA type, the number of principals, agents and assets, whether you notarize in person or online, and government fees. Send us your details and we will confirm the fee before you proceed.

How long does notarization take?

It depends on the document type and on the availability of the notary or department. Qualifying electronic cases can be completed the same day, and we keep you updated at every stage.

How long is a POA valid, and can I cancel it?

Unless a time limit is written into it, a POA generally stays valid until the principal revokes it, and it ends on the principal's death. Rules can vary by authority, so ask us about your case.

Can I arrange a POA if I live outside the UAE?

Often yes, depending on your case and the authority involved. Tell us where you are and what the POA is for, and we will explain the available route.

Will my notarized POA be in English or Arabic?

Electronically notarized POAs are generally issued in Arabic. Tell us early if you need a translation so we can plan for it.

Redefining Professional Assistance Services in the UAE

How can we assist?

Step-by-Step Guidance

Step-by-step assistance from consultation to final submission no confusion, no guesswork.

UAE-Focused Expertise

Our assistance is aligned with local procedures and authority requirements.

End-to-End Support

From document preparation to approvals, we handle everything on your behalf.

Reliable Assistance

No hidden steps, no confusion just straightforward, reliable assistance.

Our Professional
Assistance

We provide professional assistance for UAE documentation, registrations, and official procedures. Our team helps individuals and businesses complete processes clearly, efficiently, and in compliance with local requirements. From guidance to submission, we simplify every step.

Our Services

We offer professional assistance across essential UAE documentation and registration services.

UAE Wills Assistance

Guided assistance for preparing and registering Wills through approved channels in the UAE, with clear documentation support and process coordination.

Marriage Registration in Abu Dhabi

Step-by-step assistance for marriage registration in Abu Dhabi, including eligibility guidance, document preparation, and application support.

True Copy Attestation

Assistance with True Copy Attestation of personal and corporate documents, coordinated with authorized attesting entities for official use.

Company Formation Assistance

Support for setting up businesses in the UAE, including Mainland and Free Zone company formation, trade license coordination, and documentation readiness.

POA Service

Based in Dubai, Hayat Al Hikmah helps individuals and businesses with notarization, POA paperwork, document attestation and certified true copies – coordinating directly with licensed notaries..

Why Choose Us?

Affordable

We make quality legal help convenient and affordable. We have reduced our overheads to bring comprehensive legal services within the reach of everyone.

Modern Practice

Our services and lawyers in UAE are geared to serve the modern world. Our clients benefit from many of our online legal services made available on a 24/7 basis.

High Quality

We do not compromise the quality of our service. We take pride in the depth of our legal knowledge and its applications. Quality of service is at the forefront of what we do.

Same Day Response

As a leading law firm in UAE, we have committed to respond to your queries on the same day we receive them. We may not be able to provide a detailed answer but you will not be left waiting.

Free First Advice

We offer you free first advice. This gives you a chance to see if and how your assigned lawyer in UAE can help you. We remain upfront about the expected fee that you would have to pay before we begin working.

Open on Saturday

We remain open on Saturdays to help you in case you do not find time to resolve your legal issues during other days of the week.

The team made the process of creating my Will in the UAE straightforward and stress-free. They explained all the options in detail, including the pros and cons, which helped me make an informed decision.

Joseff

I am so glad I chose this service for my Will and estate planning. They made what initially seemed like a daunting task incredibly simple. Highly Recommended.

Annabella

Excellent service! I was unsure about the best estate planning option for my situation, but the advisors were patient and thorough in their explanations. The entire process was smooth, and I left feeling confident that my family’s future is secure.

Salem Abdulla

How it Works?

We follow a simple, structured process to help you complete UAE documentation and registration procedures with clarity and confidence.

Step 1: Share Your Requirement

Tell us what service you need and share basic details. Our team reviews your requirement and explains the process, documents, and next steps clearly.

Step 2: Document Guidance & Preparation

We guide you through the required documents and assist in preparing everything correctly to meet UAE authority requirements.

Step 3: Submission & Coordination

Once documents are ready, we assist with submission and coordinate with the relevant authorities or authorized entities, keeping you updated throughout.

Step 4: Completion & Support

We track the process until completion and provide confirmation once the service is finalized. Our team remains available for any follow-up support.

Trusted Partners

Our mission is to provide you with peace of mind by safeguarding your family and protecting your assets here in the UAE.

How we can Help you?

With over 15+ years of experience, we assist individuals and businesses across the UAE with documentation and administrative procedures, delivered with reliability and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are some of the most commonly asked questions in the UAE

What documentation and registration services does SecureXpats offer in the UAE?

SecureXpats provides documentation and administrative assistance for individuals and businesses in the UAE. Its services are UAE wills registration assistance, marriage registration in Abu Dhabi, true copy attestation, company formation (mainland and free zone) and power of attorney (POA) support. The team guides you from your initial requirement and document preparation through submission to the relevant authority and final confirmation. SecureXpats is based in Business Bay, Dubai.

Is SecureXpats a law firm, and does it provide legal advice?

No. SecureXpats states that it is not a law firm and does not offer legal advice. Its role is limited to procedural and documentation support: explaining the steps, preparing documents, coordinating submissions with the relevant authorities and tracking progress until completion. If you need advice on how UAE law applies to your personal circumstances, such as how your estate should be divided, speak to a licensed UAE lawyer.

Can non-Muslim couples register their marriage in Abu Dhabi?

Yes. Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021 allows civil marriage for non-Muslim citizens and residents of the emirate, and Federal Decree-Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status, effective 1 February 2023, extends a civil family-law framework to non-Muslim residents across the UAE. Applications are made through the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), which sets the eligibility conditions, including the religion, age, consent and marital status of both parties. SecureXpats helps you check eligibility, prepare the documents and support the application.

What is true copy attestation in the UAE and when do I need it?

A true copy attestation confirms that a photocopy is an exact copy of the original document, certified by an authorised body such as a notary public. It is commonly requested for items like passports, certificates, trade licences and powers of attorney used for visas, banking, company setup or legal procedures. Depending on the document and the authority that will receive it, further attestation, for example by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, may be needed. SecureXpats coordinates with authorised attesting entities so the document is accepted for its intended use.

What is the difference between mainland and free zone company formation in the UAE?

A mainland company is licensed by the emirate’s economic department (for example Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism), while a free zone company is licensed by the individual free zone authority, such as DMCC, IFZA or JAFZA. Each free zone runs its own application process and document list, so there is no single checklist that fits every setup. The right choice depends on your business activity, where you plan to trade and your office requirements. SecureXpats supports both routes, including trade licence coordination and documentation readiness.

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